Children and teens will soon be sitting at their school desks again, meaning they’ll have less time to play with the family dog. The absence of favorite playmates during the day is confusing to pets, particularly dogs, as they rely on daily habits and routines. Avoid confounding Rover more than necessary with a few helpful tips courtesy of Robinwood Kennel.

The staff at the premier Highland Heights, KY, dog kennel understand how difficult the pain of separation is for many dogs, and always strive to distract them, play with them, and make this separation easier to bear. Review the renowned dog kennel’s best tips for helping your dog cope with this scheduling change:

• Establish A New Routine: Create a new routine and maintain it throughout the entire school year. For example, have your children walk or play with the dog in the morning and feed them. Take the animal for a walk yourself around midday or have the local dog walker do so. Whatever your new routine, try to stick to the same times of day as much as possible.
• Hide Treats: Hide treats around your house for the dog to find when they’re home alone; options include new squeak toys and hollow bones filled with peanut butter or another food your dog enjoys. Treats distract the dog and provide entertainment that prevents destructive habits from forming due to boredom.
• Save Special Toys: Use your dog’s favorite toys to help them deal with the ‘eight-hour best friend loss’ every day. Have your children give the dog a favorite toy to play with when they leave and put it away when they are home. This ensures the toy remains “special” to the pooch.
• Encourage Extra Playtime: Encourage your kids to come home right after school to play fetch or other games with the dog. Give them time with the canine before they begin their homework so the four-legged family member still understands their importance to the children.
• Read Out Loud: Record your children reading out loud to the dog. Play the recordings when the dog is home alone. This fosters feelings of comfort and familiarity, which will help soothe any agitation.

Discuss these and other great back-to-school tips with your Highland Heights dog kennel. Take advantage of the dog boarding facility whenever you are out of town for a few days or more and relax knowing your canine is in loving, capable hands. Learn more about pet boarding services available through the outstanding dog kennel by contacting Robinwood Kennel today. Call (859) 781-2352 or visit the website.