It is that time of year again, the long hot summer holidays are reaching their end and the busy period of preparing uniforms and a new routine has arrived for you and your family. Amongst all the excitement and changes it is important to prepare your dog for the transition back and to adjust to you and the children not being around so much.

Your pooch will have inadvertently become accustomed to the house being much more occupied so the sudden change can have quite an impact, but the good news is there are some things you can do to ease the transition.

Top Tips

• If possible it is a good idea to start phasing your new routine gently before term time starts. By gradually adjusting your routine your dog can get accustomed to the new schedule.

• Start building up the amount of time your pooch is left for, and keep the radio or TV on whilst you are away to desensitise them to your absence.

• If you are an early bird and straight from the school run into work, consider getting up early and giving your dog a good, brisk walk to ensure that they will spend most of the day sleeping.

• A thorough long walk in the evening will also help to burn off energy conserved in the day and be a great way to reunite with your pet again after a long day.

• A new selection of toys (particularly interactive ones) can help entertain and mentally stimulate your dog throughout the day.

• Hide dog treats around the house.

• Employ a dog walker if you are unable to walk them during the day or use a doggy daycare service to prevent them from feeling lonely.

• Keep the atmosphere calm. It may be tempting to make a fuss of your furry friend when you leave and come home, but this can be counterproductive and cause them to be more reactive and anxious about your comings and goings.

Considering these options before the routine changes can ease the separation anxiety and hopefully make back to school an easier ride for all the family.