During the summer, your pets got used to having you and your kids around. They enjoyed having more interaction with you, more time to play and lots more hugs and scratches! Now that school is starting back up, it means there will be changes for the kids, for you and your pets. It will now be much quieter, and they will be spending a good amount of time by themselves.

Dogs love to be around others and enjoy the family being around. They get use to the routine of family life during the summer. With school starting, all that changes! Now your pets are alone in the house for long periods and they may feel as if they are left behind. Here are a few things to help your pet adjust to the quieter life:

• Pets love a routine, especially dogs. Start changing your dog’s routine a week or so before school starts so they can get used to the different times. Feeding, walks or letting out in the yard, playing will all change. Don't just start the day school starts. That will just confuse your pet and add to their stress.
• The start of school is always a crazy time for parents and the kids. Dogs can pick up on that and it can stress them out more than you are! Remain calm when you leave and when you come home. Leave your pet alone 10-15 minutes before you leave and then calmly leave the house. Don't make it a big deal when you come home. Its best to have your pet sit and wait until the kids put away their school stuff. This will help your pet be far less stressed when you come and go each day.
• Keep your dog occupied while you and your kids are away. Leave the dogs favorite toys around or leave a food puzzle that they can chew on for a while.
• Don't forget that your pet still needs to be cared for during the day. A nice walk or let out in the backyard can help give your dog some exercise and reduce the boredom they may experience while you and the kids are gone. A professional pet sitter or dog walker can be a great help. They can send you a report with a picture of your pet and that will help brighten your day too!

• The kids will have plenty of school supplies around. Keep them out of reach of your pets. Play-doh, glue, crayons, pencils all have harmful properties if chewed and ingested. They can also potentially be a choking hazard to your pets.
• After you get home, spend time with your pets. They will enjoy a walk or play time even more. They will love to get all the attention they missed during the day and it will help them adjust to the new routine. 
  

George Lockwood

Legends Pet Care Services, LLC