Ensuring a Smooth Adjustment for Canines of All Breeds and Ages
AUSTIN, Texas – July 31, 2024 – As a new school year approaches, Thrive Pet Healthcare is offering essential advice to help families prepare their dogs for the upcoming changes in household routines.
“During the summer, many dogs enjoy constant companionship and playtime with the kids. However, the transition to a quieter home when school starts can cause stress and anxiety for them,” said Dr. Kelly Cairns, Vice President of Medical Excellence and Education at Thrive Pet Healthcare. “Dogs don’t understand why everyone leaves or if they’ll return. Simple adjustments to your routine can significantly ease your dog’s back-to-school transition.”
Top 10 Tips to Prepare Your Dog for Back-to-School
Make gradual adjustments. Start practicing your school-year routine a few weeks in advance to help your dog adapt gradually.
Apply a consistent schedule. Align your dog’s feeding and outdoor times with the school schedule to create predictability.
Exercise in the morning. Ensure your dog has a good walk or play session in the morning to burn off energy before the family leaves.
Provide interactive toys. Keep your dog entertained with favorite toys or treat puzzles to distract from the absence of family members.
Adjust your behavioral cues. Vary your departure and arrival routines to reduce the impact of your absence. Avoid making a fuss over the dog when coming and going.
Create a calm environment. Leave relaxing music or a radio talk show on to provide comfort and stimulation while you’re away.
Give them a safe space. Train your dog to stay in a crate, playpen or dog-proofed room to prevent destructive behaviors while you’re away.
Plan for midday visits. Consider a pet walking service, pet sitter, or doggie daycare for midday activity and bathroom breaks.
Maintain bonding time. Dedicate quality time in the evenings for cuddling or engaging in training activities with your dog.
Seek veterinary help. If anxiety persists, consult your veterinarian for possible behavior modification training or medication.
“Chewing household items or having accidents when alone might indicate boredom. Don’t blame your dog for these behaviors,” said Dr. Cairns. “Ensuring they get plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation each day often resolves these issues.”
For more dog enrichment ideas and to locate a Thrive Pet Healthcare location near you, including primary, specialty, urgent, and emergency veterinary care services, visit
www.thrivepetcare.com.
About Thrive Pet Healthcare:
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service community that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and more than 380 acute, primary, and specialty providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet’s life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit
www.thrivepetcare.com.
