girl hugging dog before going to school

Back-to-school season is exciting for everyone in the household, but it means big changes to something your pets love: the daily routine. Gone, for now, are the days of the kids in your household getting up and running around outside with Fido for hours on end. 

Instead, those kids will be taking their laughter and filling the halls of their school with it. Cue the separation anxiety for your pups and kitties who love being around your kids! Anxious dogs and cats may do things they normally wouldn’t—like chew up your favorite pair of shoes or use the house as a potty. 

That’s why the team at Flowers Mill Veterinary Hospital wants to offer tips for back-to-school pet care in Langhorne, PA and beyond. 

Here’s how to give your pets a little extra TLC as a balm for school-induced separation anxiety in pets in Langhorne. 

Tips for Back-to-School Pet Care in Langhorne

Maintain the Routine—or Make a New One!

Just because the kids are out of the house doesn’t mean you can’t maintain parts of the routine your furry friends love. Make it a habit to give some of the school responsibilities to your kids—things like packing lunches and getting dressed. Take that time to shower Fido and Kitty with attention, whether that’s a jolly indoor playtime sesh or a romp around the yard. 

If you’re at home during the day, make it a point to take your pet for a walk or to the dog park after the bus picks the kids up. You may not have had the time to do this in the summer, but you can do it now! In the afternoon when the kids get home, encourage them to play with their furry family members. 

Whether it’s old or new, sticking to a routine helps your pets ride the changes without too much time to feel anxious.

Make Back-to-School Fun for Your Pets, Too

Do your kids love shopping for shiny new backpacks and pencils? Loop your pets in on the excitement with a challenging new puzzle treat dispenser or toy. Consider signing your furry friend up for a new class or dropping him off at a doggy daycare a few times a week for some good old-fashioned socialization. 

If he howls the second you and the kids walk out the door, consider bringing him along to the bus stop—or to the school for dropoff. Or, try playing soothing music on the speakers or leaving the TV on while you’re out with the kids. 

When interruptions to the routine are fun for Fido, he’s less likely to feel left out. 

Bucks County Vet Care for Severe Separation Anxiety 

If nothing seems to be helping your dog or cat’s destructive behaviors this back-to-school season, it’s time for professional help. The caring team at Flowers Mill Veterinary Hospital can provide solutions to help ease your pet’s distress. Reach out to us at 215-752-1010 to learn more about how we can help you and your pet enjoy the back-to-school season in Langhorne, PA.