Back to School

HEAD: Back-to-School Season is Stressful for Our Pets, Too

Back-to-school preparations create a lot of stress for a lot of families. While we rush to get the kids ready in time, we often don’t realize that the transition is rough on our pets, too.

Pets get used to the extra attention they receive in the summer when family members tend to stay home more and also tend to take pets out on fun excursions more often. When pets are forced back into their old, less active, less social routines, many act out in protest.

If you can, try to ease your pet back into being alone during the day. Gradually increase the amount of time you leave your pet at home alone over a few weeks. If you don’t have time to do that, you can give treats when you leave your home so your pet associates being alone with good feelings. Make sure to leave your pet plenty of toys so they can also keep busy while you’re at work and the kids are at school.

Some reactions, like accidents in the house, incessant barking or meowing or destruction of furniture or objects, may be signs of separation anxiety. To get help with ongoing behavior issues, schedule an appointment at XXXX by calling 999-999-9999.