Petfinder.com Provides Tips On Treating Pet Separation Anxiety During Back-To-School Season

Silver Spring, MD (August 26, 2009) – It’s officially “back-to-school” season where text books replace beach days and barbecues. Keeping with the scholastic spirit, Petfinder.com has a quiz question for all pet parents: Did you know pets can experience separation anxiety when kids head off to school?

If you notice behavioral changes in your pet, such as chewing on items that smell like their companion and going to the bathroom in inappropriate places, he or she may have a case of the “back-to-school blues.” Dogs who have had to change homes before being adopted into their current family may be more likely to develop separation anxiety.

Here is a homework assignment from Petfinder.com for treating separation anxiety among pets:

• Start early. If you have a new pet, you can begin anti-separation anxiety training right away. Don’t make a big deal about leaving, and only leave him alone for short periods of time at first. When you come home, simply greet him and return to your routine.

• Invest in entertainment. Leave something to divert your pet’s attention when the family is at work and school, such as a pet-sitting video. Another great product is the kong toy, which keeps dogs busy as they search for treats inside.

• Promote independence. Both adults and children can actually over-bond with their pets by spending every moment with them. While your family should certainly show love and affection to your animal, remember that independence is healthy. Place your dog in a sit-stay or down-stay position to keep him from following you and your family members around the house, and then praise him quietly when you return to the room he’s in.

• Exercise with your dog before you leave. Ask your children to play or exercise with your dog before heading off to school. A tired dog is less likely to experience stress when you head out.

• Practice gradual departures. Collect your belongings and say your goodbyes, but only leave for a few minutes. Increase these training trips by five or 10 minutes at a time. After a couple of days, your pet should be comfortable being alone for a few hours.

For more information or to speak with the co-founder of Petfinder.com, Betsy Saul about the strong animal / human bond, please contact Katy Layton at 917-595-3057 or klayton@cooperkatz.com.