Back-to-School: How to Help Your Dog Prepare

As a new school year quickly approaches, families everywhere are excitedly preparing for the fall semester to start. They’re stocking up on supplies, making grocery lists for school lunches, arranging carpool schedules, and so much more. However, amidst the hustle and bustle, it's important to consider the impact these changes can have on our furry friends. In this blog post, we will explore how children going back to school can affect dogs, and provide practical tips to help your dog navigate the transition successfully. Additionally, we'll highlight important safety concerns to ensure your pet's well-being during this time.

How Going Back to School Can Affect Some Dogs:

Just like humans, dogs thrive on routine, and any sudden change can cause stress and anxiety. This is especially true when it comes to dogs with a predisposition for anxiety. They may struggle when a family member, particularly a constant companion, suddenly returns to school. Planning ahead can help ease their transition and make them feel more comfortable.

How to Help Your Dog Deal with the Back-to-School Transition:

To help your dog adjust to the new routine, start to gradually structure your current schedule to mimic the upcoming school schedule. If school is going to cause your dog to be left alone for longer periods of time, begin leaving your dog home alone for slightly longer periods each day. This gradual increase in alone time can help them acclimate to extended periods without their family in the house.

Another effective strategy is to prioritize exercise in the morning. Engaging in physical activities early in the day can help dogs release pent-up energy, leading to increased relaxation and calmness throughout the day.
Alongside exercise, incorporating calming supplements containing ingredients like Chamomile, Melatonin, and L-theanine can provide additional support to dogs suffering from anxiety.

If your dog is especially prone to anxiety, it may be beneficial to add CBD to their daily feeding routine, until they adjust to the new schedule.

Consider Back-to-School Pet Safety:

During the back-to-school season, new school supplies and craft materials may pose potential hazards to your dog. It is crucial to be aware of these safety concerns and take necessary precautions. Common items that can cause issues are:

Glue: Keep glue out of your dog's reach, as ingestion can lead to digestive issues and other health complications. Glue can also pose issues once it dries on a dog fur. If they were chewing on the glue, their mouth or nose can become stuck, as well as their eyes.

Salt Dough: Salt dough is commonly used in school crafts, but it can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Be vigilant and ensure your dog cannot access any homemade or store-bought salt dough projects.

Small items: Items such as erasers, pen caps, bouncy balls, crayons, and pencil grips can pose a choking hazard to your dog if swallowed. Keep these items safely stored away from your pet's reach.

As we prepare for the back-to-school season, it is essential to remember that our furry companions may also be affected by the changes in routine. By planning ahead, gradually introducing new schedules, and providing calming supplements, we can support our dogs in adapting to the transition successfully. Additionally, practicing pet safety is crucial to prevent any accidents or health risks associated with school supplies and crafts.

By being proactive and implementing these strategies, we feel confident that your dog will get an A+ on their back-to-school experience!