{"id":1077,"date":"2018-08-22T19:16:22","date_gmt":"2018-08-22T19:16:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.animalmedical.net\/blog\/?p=1077"},"modified":"2018-08-22T19:16:22","modified_gmt":"2018-08-22T19:16:22","slug":"pet-anxiety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.animalmedical.net\/blog\/pet-anxiety\/","title":{"rendered":"Not Kidding Around: How Pet Anxiety Can Take Over When School Begins"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"PetThere\u2019s a whole lot of excitement and nervous energy bouncing off the walls inside countless American homes. That\u2019s right, the school year is about to begin. Along with all the intangible feelings associated with this huge shift, the hallways and closets are brimming with new shoes, supplies, and gear. Always the last one to know? The family pet. While they may not know exactly what\u2019s coming down the pike, they are enormously sensitive to change. Together we can help keep pet anxiety from overtaking the balance of the household. <\/span><\/p>\n

Prepping Your Pet<\/span><\/h3>\n

You have a lot to do if you have kids getting ready to start their new school year. However, neglecting to properly prepare your pet for an empty house, no company, and <\/span>nothing to do<\/span><\/a> can be a super rude awakening for them. How can you help your pet cope with the impending confusion and loneliness?<\/span><\/p>\n

Ease In<\/span><\/h3>\n

One of the best things you can do is ease your pet into the new schedule. Since they rely heavily on their routine, even subtle changes can freak them out. A few weeks before school starts, get everyone ready to leave in the morning just like they will when the academic year begins. Stay away for as little as 30 minutes at first and increase the time apart over the next week or so. <\/span><\/p>\n

Then What?<\/span><\/h3>\n

While you want to give your pet attention before you leave, try not to make a huge deal out of your departure. <\/span>Animals are attuned<\/span><\/a> to nervousness, stress, fear, doubt, confusion, etc. and will react in kind. <\/span><\/p>\n

Keep calm and as neutral as possible. When you return home, the same approach should be used. If you don\u2019t react like it\u2019s a scary ordeal, you\u2019re giving your pet an opportunity to simply accept the change.<\/span><\/p>\n

Calming Pet Anxiety<\/span><\/h3>\n

Play with your pet and\/or exercise with them prior to leaving in the morning, and do the same when you return. Also:<\/span><\/p>\n