Evanger's Tips: Back to School Transition for Pets

While heading back to school is usually exhilarating for your children, it often unfolds as a stressful time for your pets. Since kids typically spend so much more time around their furry friends during the summer, household pets must adjust to more solo time once the school bell rings. Many actually suffer from separation anxiety when left alone and out of their short-term summer routine.

"Lola" by Krystal F.

Aside from stressing when family members depart and showing hyper excitement when you return, separation anxiety signs include:

• Defecating and/or urinating in inappropriate areas
• Destructive behavior such as chewing and digging
• Vocal distress that includes whining, barking and howling from dogs and increased meowing from cats

When separation anxiety is not as severe, you can aid your pets in handling the stress with:

• Exercise prior to leaving the house. When pets are tired, they’re less prone to cause trouble while you’re away.
• Take short separation periods to help your pets adjust to being home alone for longer periods.
• Leave and return with a very mellow demeanor. Long good-byes and overly zealous greetings can only emphasize the anxiety of the event.
• As a comfort element, leave pets with a piece of clothing that carries your scent.
• Leave music or your television on so the environment sounds more familiar.
• Engage pets with interactive toys (especially ones stuffed with pet food or treats) to distract them in your absence. 

Use USA Made Evanger’s Meat Lover’s Medley for Dogs or Evanger’s Meat Lovers Medley for Cats as a small kibble treat that is perfect for hiding in stimulating pet toys. Reward both cats and dogs with Evanger’s Freeze Dried Treats made of beef liver or wild salmon. For dogs needing a low calorie option, consider USA Made Nothing But Natural Grain Free Jerky Treats available in Organic Chicken, Venison, Natural Pheasant, or Buffalo with Fruits & Veggies.

Symptoms typically decrease when your dog or cat grows more familiar with the new routine. If the separation anxiety persists, speak with a trainer, your vet or an animal behaviorist for advice on another route to help eliminate the issue.