Back to School Pet Tips

Though it feels like summer just began, the hurried rush of back-to-school activities are already beginning to creep up, meaning lots of preparation for both our two-legged and four-legged kiddos.

In addition to picking up a few school supplies and packing lunches, the SPCA of Texas urges families to remember a few back-to-school tips for our beloved pets, too.

• Don’t forget to keep your pets happy and healthy by keeping them up-to-date on vaccinations, microchipped and, of course, spayed or neutered. Make an appointment today if needed!
• Pets need a little extra TLC during this transition so make sure they have plenty of toys and games while they are left to entertain themselves at home. Separation anxiety can affect pets during periods of change to the family schedule like when the kiddos head back to school. Learn more about what you can do to help your pets if they experience separation anxiety.
• Parents who accompany children to school or the bus stop can take the dog on a leashed walk for a little family bonding.
• Make sure pets are safely kept inside the home or a fenced in back yard while leaving and entering the house to ensure they don’t follow and wander out to the street.
• Plan fun, family activities like going to the dog park, early morning and late afternoon walks and play dates with doggie friends.
• Give your pets plenty of fresh water, food and shelter if they’re outside. And bring them inside when the temperature soars.
• Always make sure pets have a collar and rabies and license tags with the correct contact information in case a pet is lost. Microchip pets in the event that a pet loses his or her collar. This will help ensure a pet’s safe return to his or her loving family.

The SPCA of Texas cares about all of our animal friends. You can show your best furry friends how much you care about them by making sure they stay happy and healthy and by protecting them from getting lost. That way, your cat or dog will be waiting for you at home when the school bell rings. For more information, visit www.spca.org or call the SPCA of Texas at 214-742-7722.