Back to school time is exciting for your kids, but can be upsetting for your dog! If your kids spend a lot of time with your dog over the summer, it may be hard for your dog when they are gone for long periods during the day and their routine has changed. Dogs thrive on companionship and are very social because they are pack animals like their wolf ancestors. In fact, dogs are even more social than humans–they need to be part of human families and can become upset when the family dynamics change. Remember, they don’t really know why your kids are all of a sudden disappearing, when they used to spend most of the day together. Because the kids and dog have become a “pack” together all summer, the sudden change can cause anxiety for “Rover”. Even if there is an adult human or another dog still at home, the structure and routines of “the pack” have changed suddenly and Rover doesn’t know why. Remember to have plenty of enrichment ready and available as I discussed in a previous blog.
Most dogs like to “go to school” too, so make sure they have puzzle toys with food rewards, like Kong toys, or the tennis ball with a hole in it and dry food or treats inside. Dogs love to learn, too!! It is also a great time to sign up for a dog obedience class while your kids are at school, or with your kids and you can work with your Dog practicing the obedience exercises while your kids are at school if you are at home. Often you cam find an obedience or training class for your dog locally or at your nearby PetSmart. PetSmart has dog trainers that love what they do and your dog will enjoy the attention and the chance to socialize with other dogs and people. During the day, you can practice what you both learned and it becomes a fun day instead of lonely or stressful day for Rover.
If Rover is really not adjusting well to the new situation, be sure to pay a visit to your veterinarian so they can help in case the anxiety is more serious like separation anxiety. Your veterinarian can perform a “behavior consultation” and can even prescribe medication for some more severe cases to ease the transition until Rover becomes used to the new routine. If you are concerned about your Pet’s behavior, there is a great website called Animal Behavior Network which was started by Dr. Rolan Tripp. Dr. Tripp is a veterinarian and friend of mine whose passion is helping Pets with behavior issues. Dr. Tripp works with your veterinarian to provide solid behavior advice and your veterinarian can ensure that there is not an underlying medical reason behind the behavior change (like a painful stomach or bladder infection). Many veterinarians consult with Dr. Tripp for behavioral advice and issues. I have personal experience with Dr. Tripp who helped my Chihuahuas become the sweetest little dogs on the planet (a little Pet Parent exaggeration, but they are very sweet).
Enjoy the fall with your “Rover” and hopefully the whole family will have fun learning new tricks this school year!
