This is a sponsored post with Purina
It’s back to school season and we’re running around getting everyone ready. We’re getting school supplies, making lunches and signing up for sports. We’re getting everyone ready but have you remembered your pet? Pets get used to all the activity, the littles being home and playing with them every day. They get used to all the attention and excitement every summer day of activities brings. Then what happens when they are in an empty house? Pets can get separation anxiety, and that can cause trouble for everyone in the family. We know from experience. Thanks to Purina, we have some tips for separation anxiety in pets to share with you.
Tips for Separation Anxiety in Pets
1. Set A Routine – I know for our dog a routine is so important. Emma, our German Sheppard is used to getting up in the morning, going out, then eating breakfast and then going to doggy day care. When the kids are home she knows she’s not going to doggy day care. This year we have to set up a new routine. To do this Purina suggests that leaving the house at the same time and getting back at the same time will help. Also dedicate a certain time of day to play with your dog, this structure and consistency will help them deal with loneliness and anxiety.
2. Spend Quality Time – In the advice above we recommend that you set aside some play time with your dog. Your dog needs exercise and attention. Give them a walk, a cuddle session or a mental exercise. It’s this time that will keep the pet mentally sharp and from feeling neglected.
3. Turn on Some Music – The first time the kids went to school and I was left home a long the house was way to quiet. I couldn’t work, I couldn’t concentrate. I had to turn on some background noise. The same goes for pets. You can play some soothing music or sounds while you are away. Music has benefits for pets including distracting them from worrisome noises and it promotes relaxation.
4. Give them a Toy – For our dog who loves to chew we like to give her a rawhide or a chew toy. My sister’s dogs love toys too. A toy keeps your dog occupied during alone time. You might also consider a scratch post or furniture for your cats. Give them things to keep them busy. Puzzle toys are also a great idea for pets.
5. Play It Up – So if you notice that what you have done so far hasn’t worked and your pet is experiencing destructive behavior, you just need to play it up. That means they need even more physical activity. They need rigorous play that gives them an outlet and relieves all the stress and pent up energy. Our dog needs lots of extra exercise we she has to walk in the morning, at night and if I have time in the middle of the day. Running is even better, and I let my son do that with her.
For more information on pet separation anxiety and how you can address it with your cat or dog, check out this piece at https://www.purina.com/better–with–pets/7–tips–separation–anxiety and be sure to tune in to Purina’s Facebook Live on this topic taking place on Tuesday, August 29 at 12pm CT.