7 Ways to Support St. Louis Pets During Back-to-School

Families are getting busy as students throughout St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and St. Charles County prepare to head back to school. From shopping for supplies to creating fall schedules and falling into new routines (see what I did there?), it’s like it never ends. While the back-to-school transition can be exciting for children and their parents (mostly the parents!), it can be challenging for our pets. Because our pets are creatures of habit and don’t embrace change well, we have to think about how the back-to-school blues affect them. Here, I offer 7 ways to support St. Louis pets during back-to-school.

How the Back-to-School Transition Impacts Pets

During the summer, pets are used to having children and families at home, engaging in more playtime, companionship, and affection. When school starts, routines abruptly shift and pets can experience the following:

• Separation Anxiety: Signs include excessive barking, whining, potty accidents, hiding and withdrawal, or depression, which often resembles lethargy
• Boredom and Restlessness: Pets can become bored, leading to mischief, boredom behaviors, and destructive activities including chewing inappropriately and digging
• Reduced Activity: Less time with family can mean less exercise and playtime, causing weight gain, excess energy, or unwanted behaviors like those listed above

7 Ways to Support St. Louis Pets During Back-to-School

To help your 4-legged kids transition more smoothly to your 2-legged family members’ absence, implement some or all of these tips:

1. Ease Into the New Routine

Begin leaving your pets alone in small increments before school starts, gradually increasing the time apart. This helps pets adjust so the first school day isn’t such a shock. Keep feeding, walking, and playtime as consistent as possible. Pets thrive on predictable routines.

2. Provide Enrichment

Use puzzle toys, treat-dispensing games, or interactive feeders to keep pets occupied when alone. For cats, consider creating “watch stations” near windows or setting up new climbing spaces for a welcome distraction.

3. Offer Comfort Items

Place a worn T-shirt or favorite blanket with your scent (or your kiddos’) where your pet rests to provide reassurance while you’re gone. Familiar smells put pets at ease. For cats, placing a comfort item inside a box like the one on the left is a great idea!

4. Schedule Quality Time

Carve out extra minutes for a walk or play session before or after school, and reconnect with lots of love and engagement every evening.

5. Hire a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter

Hire a midday dog walker or pet sitter like us to keep your pet company while you and the kiddos are away. We come over and walk your dog, play with your cat, sing to your bird, and place your hamster on his wheel, or whatever makes them happy. Our visits break up their day and offer companionship and exercise. By doing so, we ease their minds and bodies until you and the family come home.

6. Consider a Dog Trainer

For dogs that exhibit severe back-to-school blues , consult your veterinarian for behavioral or medical interventions. Our resident dog trainer, Jaren, is happy to discuss your dog’s behavior. He may be able to help further ease their transition.

7. Invest in Calming Treats or Toys

Made with ingredients like chamomile, L-theanine, and CBD, calming treats are a good way to support your pet during transitions. Here’s a list of highly rated options.

How Back-to-School Blues Affect St. Louis Pets

Back-to-school season can be tough on our pets. But, with preparation, patience, and the help of a pet care pro, you can help your dog, cat, etc., adjust. A little extra attention and proactive planning go a long way toward ensuring your pet stays happy, healthy, and secure through every season of change.