Back to school time can be rough on everyone — the kids, the parents, and the family pet! Separation anxiety may show up after a happy summer together, once the kids head back to school.
What are the signs of separation anxiety?
- Digging, chewing, and other destructive behavior. Your pet may scratch at doors and windows in an attempt to escape the house and follow the missing person.
- Howling, barking, yowling, or crying.
- Loss of housebreaking. This is more a stress response than an attempt at “revenge” on the person who has left.
- Showing signs of depression or anxiety when you get ready to leave home.
- Clinginess when you are home. Your pet may follow you around, demanding attention.
Try to think of this from your pet’s point of view: they have had a fantastic, fun few months with their whole family! All of sudden, the routine is changed dramatically: the constant companionship has disappeared.
So what can you do to help your pet readjust to being home alone once school starts?
- Try to keep comings and goings low key. Don’t get your pets worked up with a frantic goodbye.
- Make fake departures — go through the motions of leaving, then step out for just a few minutes before returning.
- Give your pet an unwashed t-shirt from the kids for comfort.
- Think about doggy daycare or a pet sitting service. It will give your pet an outlet for that nervous energy.
- Keep the kids involved in pet care after school starts. Homework, sports, and clubs can steal attention from a beloved pet once school is back in session. Make a schedule to help the kids keep the family pets in their daily routine. Encourage extra bonding and play time on the weekends.