For many families, the end of August marks the time of back to school preparations, changes in family routines and soon-to-be empty houses. Unfortunately, this chaotic time can be stressful, and potentially dangerous, for the family dog.

Michelle Sevigny, creator of DOGSAFE Canine First Aid and author of DOGSAFE: Everything Your Dog Wants You to Know in an Emergency, states that during the busy back to school time, dogs suddenly find themselves alone for extended periods of time. “Under-exercised dogs that are left alone may begin to chew on household items that may cause cuts to the mouth, airway or intestinal obstructions” warns Sevigny, “anxious dogs may even break thru windows resulting in glass cuts or bored dogs may dig out of the yard, both of which can be safety risks if they get hit by a car or lost while on the loose.”

However, a bit of planning ahead can reduce these risks and Sevigny urges families with dogs to remember these back to school tips:

1. Avoid abrupt changes and gradually introduce your dog to the new school routine.  Leave your dog alone for longer periods of time before the first day of school. Slowly introduce the new morning rituals which may include banging lunch kits around in the kitchen, stacking up backpacks in the hallway and everyone leaving hastily out the front door without your dog.
2. Increase exercise to prevent boredom while alone. A tired dog really is a good dog. Yes, it means having to get up earlier but it beats having a chewed up couch, or worse, an injured dog, upon your return. How much exercise does your dog need? Ask yourself if your dog’s behaviour is bothersome, if the answer is yes, he needs more.
3. Join a dog training class which stimulates your dog’s brain and will tire him out. It will also help you re-connect with your dog during busy school months. Check out puppy and beginner classes or specialty classes such as tricks, hike n train, agility and rally-o.
4. Arrange canine play dates. Nothing tires out a high energy dog faster than a romp with other friendly canines. To save time, match up your children’s play dates with canine play dates at the same house or neighbourhood.
5. Teach your dog something new. Mental stimulation is very tiring and it’s worth repeating; a tired dog is a good dog. What can you teach them? Anything really, but why not have them help you “hold the door open” or “pick up the backpack” or “grab the car keys”. Mundane tasks for you become a welcome opportunity for your dog to gain rewards that she finds motivating, such as food or a game of fetch.
6. Use mentally stimulating toys in your absence such as toys that you can stuff full of food such as Kongs or Buster Cubes. Buy a variety of toys and mix them up each day. Your dog will have to work for his breakfast, which gives him something to do while alone, and can reduce anxiety and boredom.
7. Find a professional dog walker or dog daycare to assist with your dog’s exercise needs during the back to school weeks or whenever the family schedule gets full. Most reputable walkers and daycares will have an intake assessment and a trial period so allow the time to choose a company before you really need them. Ask about experience, request references and ensure that all staff have been trained in canine first aid, safety and lost dog recovery.
8. Use natural stress and anxiety relievers such as Rescue Remedy, available at most natural health food stores. Simply add a few drops to their water bowls every day for a few weeks. 

If your dog exhibits signs of high anxiety such as extreme chewing at objects or herself, excessive barking, lack of appetite or other negative changes in behaviour, it is best to contact a qualified professional trainer for assistance.

Michelle Sevigny

© 2010 Michelle Sevigny. www.dogsafe.ca. Reprint permission granted with full copyright intact.