As the back-to-school season kicks off, families in the Charleston area are shifting into new routines. From early morning drop-offs to late-night homework sessions, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. As your family adjusts to these changes, it’s crucial to remember that your furry friends are also impacted by the disruption in their daily routine.
Dogs are creatures of habit and they do best with a consistent routine. When their schedule is suddenly changed, it can lead to anxiety, stress, and unwanted behaviors. As your family settles into the new school-year routine, it’s important to keep your dog’s routine as steady as possible to ensure their well-being.
How a Change in Routine Affects Your Dog
When the family’s schedule changes during the back-to-school season, your dog may struggle to adapt. The kids who were home all summer long are now gone for most of the day, and those regular dog walks or playtime sessions might start to slip through the cracks. These changes in routine can leave your dog feeling lonely, confused, and anxious.
Without the structure they are used to, dogs can exhibit signs of stress, including:
Increased barking or whining
Destructive chewing or digging
Pacing or restlessness
Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits
Accidents in the house
These behaviors aren’t just frustrating; they’re clear signs that your dog is struggling to cope with the new routine. The good news is, with a little planning and support, you can keep your dog’s tail wagging and their mind at ease during this transition.
The Importance of Maintaining a Routine
Just like us, dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. It is important to maintain regular walks, playtime, and social interaction to help prevent boredom and anxiety. When these elements of their routine are disrupted, it can lead to the behavioral issues mentioned above.
Maintaining a routine helps your dog feel secure and significantly reduces their stress levels. Consistent feeding times, daily dog walks, and dedicated playtime all contribute to a well-balanced and content dog.
Tips to Keep Your Dog Happy and Stress-Free
1. Stick to a Regular Feeding Schedule
Ensure that your dog’s feeding times remain consistent, even if the rest of the household’s routine has changed. This helps provide a sense of stability and security.
2. Schedule Daily Walks at the Same Time
Try to keep your dog’s walks around the same time each day. If your schedule doesn’t allow for this, consider hiring a dog walker to maintain consistency. Regular exercise is key to preventing stress-related behaviors.
3. Provide Plenty of Mental Stimulation
Use puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or training sessions to keep your dog’s mind active. Mental stimulation can help alleviate boredom and reduce anxiety.
4. Create a Safe Space
Set up a cozy area in your home where your dog can retreat when they’re feeling stressed. This could be a comfy bed in a quiet room, complete with their favorite toys and blankets.
5. Practice Calm Departures and Arrivals
Avoid making a big fuss when you leave or return home. Calm departures and low-key greetings help your dog adjust to time alone without becoming overly anxious.
6. Gradually Adjust to New Routines
If possible, start adjusting your dog to the new routine a few weeks before the school year begins. Gradually change feeding, walking, and playtime schedules so your dog can adapt without feeling overwhelmed.
7. Spend Quality Time Together
Even if your schedule is busier, make sure to spend quality time with your dog each day. Whether it’s a cuddle on the couch, a quick game of fetch, or some training exercises, this time together reinforces your bond and helps your dog feel secure.
8. Calming Products
Consider using calming products such as anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, or calming supplements if your dog is particularly anxious. Be sure to check with your vet before trying new products.
9. Monitor for Signs of Stress
Keep an eye out for signs of stress like excessive barking, destructive behavior, or changes in appetite. Address these issues early to prevent them from escalating.
10. Keep a Routine When You’re Away
When you’re out for the day at work or running errands, hire a dog walker to check in on your dog. Ensuring they have regular potty breaks, playtime, and feeding helps keep them comfortable until you return.
How Paws Up! Can Help Keep Your Dog’s Routine on Track
At Paws Up!, we understand how hectic the back-to-school season can be for families in the Charleston area. That’s why we offer midday dog walking and adventure service designed to keep your dog’s routine consistent, even when your day is packed.
Here’s how our services can help maintain your dog’s routine:
Regular Dog Walks: We’ll ensure your dog gets their daily dose of exercise and fresh air, even when you’re swamped with work or school runs. Regular walks help keep your dog active and happy.
Mental Stimulation: Our dog walks and adventures aren’t just about physical activity. We also engage your dog’s mind with new sights, smells, and experiences during our adventure walks, which improves their mental health and well-being.
Consistent Care: We work with you to create a schedule that fits seamlessly into your dog’s day, helping to maintain their routine even when your family’s routine changes. Whether it’s midday walks or adventure outings, we’ve got your furry family member covered.
With Paws Up!, you can rest easy knowing that your dog is receiving the attention and care they need to stay happy and healthy, even during the busiest times of the year.
Final Thoughts
As you navigate the back-to-school season, don’t forget about your dog’s needs. Maintaining a consistent routine is key to keeping them calm, happy, and well-behaved. And when life gets too hectic to manage it all, Paws Up! is here to help. Whether it’s a midday walk to break up their day, an adventure walk, or regular playtime and enrichment to keep them entertained, we’ve got your furry family member covered.
Let’s make this school year stress-free for everyone in your household—both two-legged and four-legged alike! Contact Paws Up! today to schedule your dog’s routine walks and keep their tail wagging all season long.
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