Paws and Claws: Pets must adjust as kids return to school
by Cindy Anderson, DVM, Animal Care Clinic
The change in routine associated with shorter days and the “running around” rush of heading back to school can be confusing to our pets. This change in the family’s pattern of behavior may not affect our cats so much, but our dogs will wonder what is going on. Some dogs may require a more structured and set schedule.
One of the major effects on pets when kids return to school can be separation anxiety. This is often characterized by signs including digging and scratching in an attempt to escape, excessive howling and whining, destructive chewing or a lapse in potty training.
To help pets avoid separation anxiety, ease them into the new schedule by taking short absences. This will get pets comfortable when they are left home alone. Then gradually lengthen the time away during the weeks leading up to the new schedule.
Pets can take emotional cues from their owners, so it is important for family members to stay calm and not make a big deal about leaving or saying goodbye.
Another way to help ease the side effects of the coming school days is to set a daily pet routine that includes the children. Make feeding, watering, walks and playtime part of the daily routine, roughly about the same time every day.
Leave the radio or television on with human voices or calm music to soothe pets while the family is away. Rotating the selection of safe toys available around the house will keep pets occupied. Interactive toys and food puzzle toys also can help distract pets while left alone.
Hopefully, by being mindful of a pet’s emotional state while preparing for the school year, the entire family will transition smoothly into the new schedule, the four-legged members included.
If after trying these tips, your pet still shows signs of anxiety or depression once the new schedule starts, talk to your veterinarian. He or she may recommend a number of treatment options for your pet. These may range from behavior therapy, to pheromone treatment, to anxiety medication.
Please feel free to contact the staff at Animal Care Clinic, 926 W. Grand River Ave., Williamston, MI 48895; 517-655-5551; with any questions or concerns.
Cindy Anderson, DVM, is a graduate of MSU Veterinary College (1992) and has practiced veterinary medicine for over 28 years. She traveled to Italy, New Zealand and Manitoba before establishing her own clinic in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. Dr. Cindy took over duties at the Animal Care Clinic in October 2019 and now spends the majority of her time in the Lower Peninsula helping animals and their owners.
