Kong Days are here! Save 20% on all Kong products, but hurry! The deals end on August 24th. Choose from a huge selection of natural rubber Classic Kongs, Rings, snacks, stuffie toys and even the great Kong Stuff’N Easy Treat cans! Treat your pup to a new Kong toy now!
Back to school brings a lot of changes to the routine for families. Getting up on time, catching the bus, after-school activities… the schedule fills up quickly. Back-to-school season can disrupt pets’ routines and cause anxiety. Here’s how to make the transition smoother for your furry friends:
- Understand Pet Anxiety
Pets thrive on routine and can get stressed with changes. Watch for signs of separation anxiety like whining, pacing, and inappropriate urination. - Include Pets in the Routine
Take your dog to the bus stop or let your kids give the cat a treat before leaving. Small adjustments can help pets adjust to the new schedule. - Stick to the Routine
Maintain consistency with feeding and walks. If you start a new routine, try to keep it steady throughout the school year. - Provide Mental Stimulation
Keep pets occupied with toys, puzzles, or a TV for background noise. This helps reduce boredom and anxiety while you’re away. - Ensure Plenty of Exercise
Incorporate playtime and walks into your routine. Consider hiring a dog walker if needed, or provide interactive toys for cats. - Create a Comfortable Space
Set up cozy spots around the house and play soothing music. Avoid loud or intense sounds that could stress your pet. - Stay Calm When Leaving and Returning
Avoid making a fuss when you leave or return home. Keep greetings low-key to help your pet adjust to the routine. - Consider a Pet Sitter
If your pet struggles alone, a pet sitter might help. Even a few hours a day can ease their anxiety. - Ensure Safety at Home
Pet-proof your home by securing food, medications, and dangerous areas. Keep water bowls full and check with your vet for additional stress-reduction tips.
These strategies can help make the back-to-school transition easier for your pets and keep them happy and healthy.
Get some more tips in this article, Preparing Dogs for Back-to-School, courtesy of the American Kennel Club
Looking for a puzzle treat toy for your chewer? Check out the new Pupsicles! These refillable toys have become very popular. Buy refills or make your own with the handy silicone freezer tray. Dog love to lick the frozen treat, and chew on the durable, nontoxic natural rubber. There is even a Calming refill, to help your dog stay chill even after the treat is gone.
Fair time is in full swing! Rainbow loves supporting our young showmen and women, and enjoy meeting them when they bring in their buyers letters. Coming up next, the Lake County Fair which takes place over the Labor Day weekend, August 29 – September 1. Rainbow will be there to bid on Auction lots and cheer on our local youth.
Then, the final fair will be in Booneville, the Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show, September 13 – 15. Always a fun time and lots going on, with the Sheep Dog Trials, Rodeo, Parade, Car Show, Football, the California Wool & Fiber Festival, and of course the 4H, FFA and open livestock shows! Don’t miss it.
Trivia!
Enter to win a $15 Rainbow Coupon. All correct answers go into a random drawing.
The July question was, Who or what is the Dog Star? Our winner is Karen Ziemer, with the answer that the distant sun, Sirius, is known as the Dog Star.
This month’s question is, What should we do for our pets when leaving and returning home?