As summer draws to a close, the back-to-school season brings a change in routines for families. While this transition can be exciting, it can also be challenging for our beloved pets. Providing your pets with the care and attention they need during this busy time of year is essential. Let's explore helpful tips, educational insights, and valuable resources to ensure a smooth back-to-school transition for you and your furry friends.
1. Maintaining a Consistent Schedule:
Pets thrive on routine, so maintaining a consistent schedule is crucial. Adjust your pet's daily routine a week or two before the school year begins. Gradually shift feeding times, exercise periods, and bedtime routines to align with your new schedule. This approach helps pets acclimate and minimizes anxiety associated with sudden changes.
2. Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
With the hustle and bustle of school activities, it's vital to prioritize exercise and mental stimulation for your pet. Regular walks, play sessions, and engaging toys will help prevent boredom and excess energy buildup. If your pet is home alone for long periods due to your family's schedule, consider enrolling your dog in day camp, where they can enjoy supervised playtime and social interaction with other furry friends. These professionals can provide companionship, exercise, and mental stimulation while you're away.
3. Provide a Safe and Comfortable Environment:
During the back-to-school period, pets may experience separation anxiety or stress. Create a cozy and secure space within your home where they can retreat when overwhelmed. Dogs are natural den animals, and they enjoy their own sanctuary that is large enough to fit inside and feel secure. Use comforting items like their favorite blanket, toys, or clothing with your scent. Calming aids such as pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps may also help reduce their stress levels.
4. Mental Enrichment and Training:
Dogs love to learn, and back-to-school is a great time to teach new tricks to engage your pet's mind. Consider introducing puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or interactive games to keep them mentally stimulated. Engaging in training sessions not only provides mental enrichment but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
5. Seek Support from Pet Care Professionals:
If you're concerned about managing your pet's needs during the back-to-school period, seek guidance from pet care professionals. Kennelwood Pet Resorts, with nearly 50 years of experience, offers a range of services, including dog boarding, grooming, training, and day camp. Our knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice and assistance tailored to your pet's needs.
6. Back-to-School Pet Photography:
Remember to capture precious memories of your pet as they grow each year by scheduling a pet photography session. Professional pet photographers can immortalize your furry friend's unique personality, creating lasting keepsakes to cherish. Kennelwood Pet Resorts offers pet photography services, ensuring your pet's character shines through in every photo.
Following these tips, prioritizing mental and physical stimulation, and utilizing the resources available from trusted pet care providers, can ensure that your furry companions navigate this busy season with ease.
Don't forget to reward their good behavior. Here is a five ingredient homemade dog biscuit recipe that gets an A+ from all the dogs.
DOG BISCUT INGREDIENTS
- ▢1 cup whole wheat flour
- ▢1 cup oats
- ▢1/2 cup GROUND UP flaxseed
- ▢1/2 to 1 cups beef broth
- ▢1/4 cup peanut butter
INSTRUCTIONS
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Preheat the oven to 350° F.
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Stir together flour, oats and flaxseed. Mix in 1/2 cup beef broth and peanut butter. Form into a ball and turn out on a lightly floured surface.
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Roll to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut out to desired shape.
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Bake 20 minutes - flipping halfway.
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Cool completely. Keep in airtight container for about one week.
