How to ease separation anxiety in pets: back-to-school blues

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As children across the country return to school, many families are focused on getting their children ready for the new term, and not noticing the signs of separation anxiety in pets. But after weeks of constant companionship, the sudden shift to quieter days can be confusing—and even distressing—for dogs and cats.

To help, Petstock ambassador and pet behaviourist Lara Shannon shares her expert advice on reducing stress and ensuring a smooth transition.

“There isn’t a quick fix for separation anxiety in pets,” Lara explains.

“But, there are steps you can take to make the adjustment easier for everyone.”

Signs your pet may have back-to-school blues

Pets, especially dogs and cats, are creatures of habit. 

A sudden change in routine—such as family members leaving for long periods during the day—can trigger stress.

Sometimes, though, it might be hard to know whether you’re pet is anxious after everyone leaves the home. 

Lara suggests asking neighbours if they notice barking or destructive behaviour occurring shortly after you leave, which can indicate separation anxiety. 

On the other hand, boredom-related behaviour tends to emerge later in the day.

Separation anxiety in pets: know what to look for 

According to Lara, dog anxiety symptoms include:

→ Excessive barking or howling

→ Destructive behaviour like chewing, scratching doors or windows

→ Indoor accidents, even in house-trained dogs

→ Escape attempts

→ Loss of appetite when left alone

Cat anxiety symptoms: 

→ Excessive crying, howling, or meowing

→ Inappropriate urination (for eg, on the bed)

→ Vomiting

→ Excessive grooming

 

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How to help pets adjust to back-to-school routines

To ease your pet’s transition and reduce stress, Lara recommends a few key strategies:

•Establish a predictable routine

Routine helps pets feel safe and secure. Start gradually adjusting their schedule before school starts to ease them into new patterns. Ensure their daily routine includes:

• Regular exercise (walks, playtime)
• Set meal times
• Alone time to encourage independence

“A consistent routine provides pets with a sense of security,” Lara explains. “When sudden changes occur, they can feel anxious. Introducing a structured daily schedule before school starts can make a big difference.”

•Practise alone time

Even if your pet hasn’t shown previous signs of anxiety, going from full-time family interaction to spending most of the day alone can be unsettling.

Lara suggests creating short, frequent separations while you’re still at home.

“It’s important to help pets get comfortable being alone by gradually increasing the time apart,” she says. “Provide them with interactive toys, puzzles, or long-lasting treats to keep them engaged and avoid boredom-related behavioural issues.”

•Enrol in puppy school or training classes

Back-to-school season isn’t just for kids! If your dog has developed any unwanted habits over the holidays—or if you’ve recently adopted a new pet—this could be the perfect time for training.

“Puppy school and behavioural classes help reinforce good habits, provide mental stimulation, and give dogs the opportunity to socialise,” Lara says.

Petstock offers training programs including puppy school (for 8–15 weeks old) and preschool (for 15 weeks and older).

•Keep pets mentally stimulated

Boredom can lead to destructive behaviours, especially in dogs. To keep them entertained while the family is out, consider:

→ Treat-dispensing toys

→ Snuffle mats

→ Puzzle feeders

→ Rotating their favourite toys to keep things fresh

Interactive toys help keep your pet’s mind active and prevent them from developing anxiety-driven habits.

•Don’t make goodbyes dramatic

When heading out for the day, keep departures calm and low-key.

“If you fuss over your pet before leaving, they may associate your absence with stress,” Lara explains.

Instead, give them a treat or toy as you walk out the door to create a positive association with alone time.

Choosing the right pet for your family can also significantly impact their comfort levels from the very beginning. Our guide on the best pets for kids helps families select the most suitable companion.

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Prepare and recognise cat and dog anxiety symptoms 

While back-to-school time is an exciting period for families, it can be an unsettling adjustment for pets.

But by implementing Lara’s strategies, pet owners can help their companions transition smoothly and avoid unnecessary stress.

“The key is to be proactive,” Lara says.

“A little preparation now can prevent bigger behavioural issues down the track. Pets thrive on love, routine, and reassurance—so let’s make sure they feel supported during this change.”

For more expert pet care tips and to enrol in Petstock’s puppy school, visit Petstock’s website.

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