Statewide Iowa — The start of school is an exciting time for students but it can be a confusing, stressful trial for our pets.
Cassandra Johnson, animal enrichment supervisor at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, says after a full summer of undivided attention from their kid companions, our animals will soon see their routine switch to hectic mornings and long, lonely days.
It’s important for pets to have time to themselves and Johnson says it can help to make back-to-school time less traumatic.
She suggests leaving a radio or TV on in the house during the day, or even tuning in one of the dog, or cat, specific channels on cable.
Animals that are stressed may show symptoms like: depression, lethargy, destructive behavior, and a decrease in eating and drinking. She says simple things might help.
In some cases, pet owners might consider hiring a pet sitter to check in on the animals to ease their loneliness and make sure they’re okay.
For more information visit http://ARL-Iowa.org.
