As the new school year begins, families shift their focus from summer fun to school schedules, and with that shift, pets often find themselves spending more time alone. Pets, especially those who have grown accustomed to having family members around, may experience boredom, anxiety, or restlessness when the kids head back to school. But don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to ensure your pet sitting at home stays happy, engaged, and content during this transition.
In this guide, we’ll provide tips on how to keep your pet stimulated while your pet sitting at home alone and how to make their days as exciting as ever. Plus, be sure to take advantage of our current “Huge Savings on Toys, Games, and Sports Accessories” to ensure your pet has everything they need to stay entertained! Save 10% and enjoy free shipping on all Toys, Games, and Sports Accessories. Don’t miss out! Find out how in our blog.
1. Set Up a Routine
Pets thrive on routine. They find comfort in knowing what to expect daily, and a consistent schedule helps reduce anxiety. Try to maintain regular feeding times and incorporate short play sessions in the morning before the kids leave for school and again in the evening. These routines provide structure and help your pet feel secure, even during the change.
Make sure your pet has an activity to look forward to throughout the day, like a lunchtime walk, interactive play, or a special treat. This can help break up their day and reduce the feeling of isolation.
2. Interactive Toys for Mental Stimulation
When pets are left alone, one of the best ways to keep them happy is through mental stimulation. Interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or activity balls, are perfect for keeping your pet’s brain engaged.
Dogs, cats, and even smaller pets like rabbits or birds can benefit from toys that require problem-solving. These toys tap into their natural instincts to hunt, forage, or solve problems, keeping them entertained for hours. Be sure to check out our “Huge Savings on Toys, Games, and Sports Accessories” sale, where you can pick up exciting toys at a fraction of the cost! Our selection includes puzzle games, treat toys, and sports-themed accessories perfect for keeping your pets engaged while the kids are away.
3. Create a Comfortable and Safe Space
It’s important to designate a quiet, comfortable spot in the house where your pet can relax while you’re away. This can be a corner of a room with their favourite bed, blanket, or toys. For dogs, a crate can provide a safe, cosy den-like space where they can feel secure. Make sure this space is free from noise and distractions that might cause stress, such as loud appliances or the busy front door area.
For cats, providing an elevated perch or window seat can give them a safe vantage point to observe their surroundings. They’ll enjoy watching birds or other outdoor activities, which can serve as entertainment throughout the day.
4. Morning Exercise and Enrichment
A tired pet is a happy pet! Before the kids leave for school, ensure your pet has had plenty of morning exercise. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a game of fetch, or some vigorous play with a laser pointer, morning activity will help expend your pet’s energy, making them more likely to nap or relax throughout the day.
For high-energy dogs, consider playing with frisbees or balls from our sports accessories collection, available in our current promotion. These activities will not only tire out your dog physically but also give them the mental stimulation they need to feel satisfied. Cats also benefit from morning play—try using a wand toy or laser pointer to get them moving before their day of napping begins.
5. Pet Daycare or Dog Walker
If you’re concerned about your pet being left alone for too long, consider options like pet daycare, a dog walker, or hiring a pet sitter. Pet daycare facilities are excellent for socialization and offer a fun, engaging environment for your pet to play with other animals. Some daycares even offer enrichment programs that include puzzle games, walks, and plenty of cuddles.
For those who can’t commit to full-time daycare, hiring a dog walker to break up the day is another great option. A midday walk can refresh your dog and prevent them from becoming too restless. If you’re looking after a cat, you might consider a pet sitter who can drop by and spend time with your feline friend.
6. Enlist the Kids to Help
Even with a busy school schedule, kids can still be involved in keeping the family pet sitting at home happy. Make it a part of their daily routine to give the pet attention when they return from school. Whether it’s taking the dog for a walk, playing fetch, or simply spending some quality cuddle time, this interaction can help ease the transition from summer to school mode.
Plus, caring for a pet can help teach kids responsibility and empathy, while also giving them a much-needed break from schoolwork. And with our “Huge Savings on Toys, Games, and Sports Accessories”, your kids can have fun picking out new toys or gear to play with your pet.
7. Leave the TV or Radio On
Leaving the television or radio on can provide comforting background noise for pets that feel anxious in complete silence. There are even TV channels designed specifically for pets, featuring calming music or scenes of wildlife. These options can help your pet feel less alone and more relaxed while they wait for the family to return home.
The transition back to school doesn’t have to be stressful for your pet sitting at home. With a little planning and some thoughtful additions to their daily routine, your furry friend can stay happy, healthy, and entertained even when the house is a little quieter.
Remember to check out our “Huge Savings on Toys, Games, and Sports Accessories” sale to stock up on the best tools to keep your pet engaged and active during the school year. From puzzle toys to sports gear, we’ve got everything you need to ensure your pet’s well-being. With the right approach, you can make this back-to-school season enjoyable for both your pets and your family!
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