BACK TO SCHOOL BLUES

Why do humans think they have an exclusive on emotions? This especially seems true about sadness or anxiety. Have humans become so self-absorbed that they’ve forgotten animals, especially dogs that are highly social, find it difficult to cope with the departure of the ones they love?

This ‘sadness’ or departure anxiety is heightened in September when everyone heads back to school and work after the lazy, crazy days of summer and fun family vacations. You may see your canine pal exhibit new behaviors that are outward demonstrations that they are confused and lonely about your sudden absence.

The ASPCA describes these behaviors as:

Urinating and defecating in the house
- Incessant barking and howling
- Chewing and digging
- Attempting to escape the house or yard
- Pacing without pause

These are signs that your dog is upset about your sudden long hours away each day. The key is to understand what they need to feel better.

Consistency: Dogs need a consistent routine. It makes them feel secure. Regardless of your back-to-school schedule, make sure some things stay the same: the time you walk them in the morning and the time you (or some-one) arrives home from work. Details about this can be found in the video below but remember that just because you are busier in the mornings and evenings does not mean you can eliminate your dog’s exercise time from your regular routine.



Stimulation: Dogs get bored and must have physical and mental activity. Consider a new toy for your dog that requires focus and brainwork to access a treat or food. Two examples are the Kong, Chuckle or Squirrel Dude. (See info below.) These toys can be stuffed with peanut butter (check with your vet first) or kibbles. If you’re using something gooey like peanut butter, freeze it overnight so it increases the difficulty level. Your dog will have to work hard to get the goodies out of each one.

Chuckle
http://www.aspcaonlinestore.com/index.php?productID=1641

Football
http://www.aspcaonlinestore.com/index.php?productID=681

VERY IMPORTANT: When you come home, be sure to remove the special treat-stimulating toy you gave your dog in the morning. You want your dog to receive this particular stimulation toy (and as a result associate it with) your departure. This further reinforces a positive feeling with your morning absence.

Timing: Limit your time away from home to 4 hours for puppies and only 6 to 7 hours for adult dogs. If this is tough for you to do, consider the support of a neighbor to help. Many people live in homes or apartments with neighbors that are retired, semi-retired or work at home. You might be surprised at how many would be willing to spend a little time with your dog each day. They are often lonely too.

So, here’s my lesson of the day… Absence makes the heart grow fonder but too much absence makes a dog wonder – if you still love him or her. Prove your devotion and love is still present even when you aren’t with consistent exercise times, activity toys and extra attention when you come home.

Okay, the question of the day is from Bomber who asked: What fun toys could you recommend for my pal and I who stay outside most days? My family is back in school and we enjoy endless hours in a great yard but need something different to do some days.


Dear Bomber:
Humans tend to think that dogs that stay outside most of the day don’t have the same separation anxiety problems or experience the same boredom as indoor dogs. Tell your humans about KOOL DOGZ ICE TREAT MAKER. It’s a cool treat that you have to work to access. See details below.

KOOL DOGZ ICE TREAT MAKER
http://www.aspcaonlinestore.com/index.php?productID=4239



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