As students across the country return to classrooms and routines, pets are also facing a change in their daily lives. After spending the summer with their families at home, many dogs and cats now must adjust to longer periods alone while humans head off to work or school.
To help pets and their families navigate this transition, Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization dedicated to saving the lives of dogs and cats in shelters, is offering guidance for easing the shift to a busier schedule.
Adjusting to a back-to-school routine can be as challenging for pets as it is for their owners. Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavior Coordinator at Best Friends, said families can reduce stress by practicing “mock departures.” Pet owners are encouraged to pick up backpacks, put on shoes, and grab keys without leaving the house. “Pets learn that these cues don’t always mean being left alone,” Farah said, “which can help prevent separation anxiety.”
Experts also recommend gradually reestablishing structured routines. Mealtimes, potty breaks, and play sessions may have shifted over the summer; adjusting them to mirror school-day schedules can help animals acclimate smoothly. For example, feeding a dog or cat slightly earlier each day to match the upcoming school routine gives them time to adjust without unnecessary stress.
Creating a calm environment is another key element. Some pets find security in a quiet room or crate, while others prefer lounging on a couch or bed with a blanket that carries the scent of their owners. Providing a safe, predictable space helps pets remain relaxed and engaged while their humans are away.
Physical and mental enrichment can also make the transition easier. Longer morning walks for dogs, interactive toys for cats, and puzzle-feeding devices can keep pets stimulated and tire them out, reducing restlessness or boredom. Farah emphasizes that these activities are not just about exercise but also mental engagement: “Challenging pets’ brains helps them feel accomplished and content during the day.”
Even the manner of saying goodbye matters. Families are advised to keep departures upbeat but low-key, offering a small treat and using a positive tone. Avoiding dramatic or emotional farewells can prevent pets from associating alone time with anxiety or distress.
For pets that cannot safely remain alone, families may consider pet daycare, ensuring animals are comfortable and supervised throughout the day. “While it can be hard to leave them for longer periods,” Farah said, “most pets adapt and spend their time sleeping or entertaining themselves safely.”
For more information on helping pets adjust to back-to-school routines, visit bestfriends.org.
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