August 7, 2023 (AUSTIN, Texas) – As families gear up for the school year ahead, Thrive Pet Healthcare is offering expert advice on how to ensure your beloved canine companions are prepared for the changes in routine that come with the return to school.
“During the summer, dogs relish their time with kids, playing and constant companionship. However, when household members head back to school and they are suddenly left alone, they may experience stress and anxiety,” said Dr. Kelly Cairns, Vice President of Medical Excellence and Education at Thrive Pet Healthcare. “Dogs don’t comprehend why everyone has gone and whether they will return. By making some simple adjustments to your daily routine, you can make all the difference in easing you dog’s back-to-school blues.”
Top 10 Tips to Prepare Your Dog for Back-to-School
Make gradual adjustments. Start practicing your back-to-school routine a few weeks ahead of time to allow your dog to adapt slowly to the change.
Apply a consistent schedule. Set your alarm earlier and get up at the same time as when school starts. Take your dog outside and feed them at the same time they will be taken out and fed during school days.
Exercise in the morning. Allocate time for a long walk or play session to help your dog expend energy before the household leaves for work and school.
Provide interactive toys. Keep your dog engaged and distracted from your family’s departure by providing them with a favorite toy or treat puzzle toy.
Adjust your behavior cues. Minimize the impact of your absence by varying your departure and arrival routines. Avoid making a fuss over the dog when coming and going.
Create a calm environment. Leave relaxing music or a radio talk show on while you’re away to provide stimulation and comfort for your pet.
Give them a safe place to stay. Train your dog to stay in a crate, playpen or dog-proofed room while you’re gone to prevent destructive behaviors throughout the house.
Plan for midday visits. Consider hiring a pet walking service, petsitter or using a doggie daycare for midday activity, particularly if your dog requires a midday bathroom break or additional human interaction.
Maintain bonding time. Set aside quality time in the evenings to spend with your dog, whether it’s snuggling on the couch or engaging in obedience or agility training together.
Seek veterinary help. If your dog continues to struggle with anxiety, consult your veterinarian for guidance. In some cases, behavior modification training and medication may be necessary.
“When you’re away and the dog chews household items or has unexplained accidents in the home, it may be a sign of boredom. Do not blame your dog for these behaviors,” said Dr. Cairns. “Keeping them physically active and stimulated each day will often solve the problem.”
More enrichment ideas to stimulate your dog’s mind and body are available on Thrive Pet Healthcare’s
website.
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 network that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and 400 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.
