With all of the hustle and bustle surrounding the first week of school, Animal Medical Care of Gainesville Veterinarian, Dr. Denise Funk, told WDUN's Afternoon News Wrap that it is important to make sure pets are ready for the routine changes.
"It is a stressful time for them just like it is for everybody else as schedules change. Pets have been with families more than usual during the summer, and now all of a sudden there will be a big life alteration for them as school heads back into session ." Dr. Funk said.
Funk stated that whether it is a new pet or an old pet, there are some things to make sure they are ready for the routine changes to lower their anxiety. The biggest thing, she says, it eliminating the drama of leaving them alone.
"When you are getting ready to leave, don't make a big deal of it. Same thing when they get home. If they are jumping around excited to see you, stay calm until they calm down. Their anxiety and destructive behavior is worse right after you leave and right before you arrive when they anticipate your homecoming. So make those calm events," said Funk.
Funk recommends to help with the transition back into the "new school year routine," is to give the dog something to stay entertained with, such as a healthy chewie treat. If they still have anxiety issues, she recommends talking to your pet's health care provider about a plug in pheromone scents that may help with anxiety.
One other thing to keep in mind with pets before the summer ends and the hustle and bustle of the new school year begins, is making sure your pet is up to date on treatments and vaccines.
"People at the end of summer think fleas and ticks are a problem. But we often have peak flea season in the fall. And of course, always the rabies. We have a lot of rabies in Hall County. That $10 preventative shot can save you a lot of grief."
