Back-to-school stress can affect your pet! Here's how to make a smooth transition for your family....

Children are not the only family members that need a little extra time to prepare and adjust at back-to-school time. Pets need time to adjust too and with a few tips, behavioral challenges can be avoided.
The back-to-school transition that children and families are now making is anything but routine for dog. Many dogs will spend more time alone as children go back to school and parents go back to work, which can result in an interrupted change to routine, as well as increased boredom and separation anxiety.
With the right combination of food, stimulation and a comfortable place to relax, families can help their pets adapt to a new schedule.

Separation anxiety

Many dogs will be left alone as everyone goes back to work or school. They can become stressed, which often results in destructive behaviors and barking, so try these tips:

• Pay less attention to your dog. The dog may be the center of attention when the kids are home all day during summer, so you need to change this scenario as school begins. Pay increasingly less attention to your dog each day, ideally before your children return to school, to get your dog used to being alone. Begin by separating him from the kids and the rest of the family. For example, if you frequently take your dog with you to run errands, leave him at home.

• Practice leaving the house. Go through the motions of leaving the house, go out the door, but then come right back in again. The dog will cease associating the routine of your leaving the house with your departure. This will help him to be more relaxed when you actually leave.

• When you leave. As the last person leaves the house for the day, do not confuse your dog by talking in a sweet voice. If he is feeling concerned that you are leaving, a happy, high-pitched voice can make him think it is okay to feel anxious. Dogs are pack animals and so they expect their leaders to be strong when they leave the pack.

Boredom

Dogs sleep a lot during the day, but when they wake up, they want something to do. When you are away from home, try these tips to entertain your dog:

• Toys. Dogs love toys, but they can quickly get bored with or destroy them.  Buy high-quality, virtually indestructible puzzle toys that your dog will always enjoy, such as those that hold healthy treats. Every few days, rotate the toys to give your dog something new and fun to hold his interest.

• Scatter food. Dogs are natural foragers and will spend hours looking for food on the ground. Scatter some "munchies" - such as all-natural and low calorie treats - around the house or yard when you leave. Try hiding a few treats so your dog spends extra time looking for them. And provide lots of fresh, clean water.

Shelter

Dogs need their own secure “home,” a place where they feel secure and comfortable, such as a:

• Crate. Most dogs love the safety of a crate. They are descended from animals that live in dens, so a crate is a natural shelter for a dog because it has the same characteristics of a den. But do not start crate training your dog the day the children leave for school. That is too late and can add to his stress. Do not leave a dog in a crate for extended periods. Ask a friend or neighbor to come by to let your dog out to toilet if you plan to be away longer than 8-10 hours for a dog and 6 hours maximum for a puppy.

• Laundry room. If your dog will be inside all day and you are concerned about him toileting in the house, enclose him in a small room (which inhibits the tendency to toilet) and has an easy-clean floor of vinyl or tile (in case he has an accident). Place a soft bed and toys in the room for him, too.

• Doghouse. Make sure your dog has shelter in which to get out of the weather if he will be kept outside. Dogs are more relaxed when they are covered and in familiar surroundings. Place the doghouse next to the house so he feels like it is an extension of the larger “den” and provide a blanket or other bedding.

Unusual behavior

Stressed dogs can exhibit unusual behaviors, such as jumping or biting. Children will come home from school and sometimes be greeted by the dog in a rough manner. After being left alone, a dog has pent-up energy and might overreact when he sees the kids. To manage potentially unusual behavior, here are a few tips:

• Train your children. Parents need to train their children to avoid going to the dog’s area as soon as they get home. Kids should ease into giving your pet attention for a few minutes to allow him to settle down. With young children, it is best to have a parent present. Once your dog learns the routine, he will relax.

Enjoy a happy and pet-friendly transition this back to school season!