Bringing home a new puppy, kitten, or rescue pet is exciting, and many families welcome a new companion during the summer months when schedules are more flexible. But as vacations end and work or school routines return, many pets suddenly face something new—being home alone.
The good news is that learning to be comfortable alone is a skill your pet can develop. With a little preparation, you can help make the transition less stressful for everyone.
Start Practicing Before Your Schedule Changes
If your new pet has become accustomed to having someone home most of the day, don't wait until the night before your first day back to work or school to leave them alone.
Instead, begin practicing short absences several weeks in advance. Leave the house for 15 to 30 minutes, then gradually increase the amount of time you're away. This helps your pet learn that you always come back and that being alone is a normal part of the day.
It's also helpful to return to your regular schedule early by feeding meals, taking walks, and offering potty breaks at the same times they'll occur once your routine changes.
Burn Energy Before You Leave
A pet with pent-up energy is more likely to become bored or anxious. Before heading out, take your dog for a walk, play a game of fetch, or spend a few minutes practicing basic training. Mental exercise can be just as tiring as physical activity.
For cats, a short interactive play session with a wand toy before you leave can help satisfy their natural hunting instincts and encourage a restful nap afterward.
Keep Their Minds Busy
Providing enrichment while you're away helps prevent boredom and creates positive associations with alone time. Puzzle feeders, lick mats, snuffle mats, treat-dispensing toys, and appropriate long-lasting chews can help keep dogs occupied. Cats also benefit from food puzzles, climbing trees, scratching posts, window perches, and interactive toys.
If you're unsure which enrichment products are best for your pet's age, size, or personality, we're happy to help you choose.
Watch for Early Signs of Stress
Some pets adjust quickly, while others need more time. Keep an eye out for signs that your pet may be struggling, including following you from room to room, whining when you pick up your keys, excessive barking, destructive chewing, pacing, accidents in the house, or refusing food after you leave.
Addressing these behaviors early can often prevent them from developing into more serious separation anxiety.
Set Your Pet Up for Success
Keep departures and arrivals calm rather than emotional. Offer a favorite toy or enrichment activity as you leave and greet your pet once they've had a chance to settle down.
Remember that young puppies can't comfortably hold their bladder for an entire workday. If you'll be gone for several hours, consider asking a trusted friend, family member, neighbor, or pet sitter to stop by for a potty break and some playtime.
Returning to work or school is a big adjustment, but with patience, consistency, and the right enrichment, your new pet can learn that alone time is simply another part of a happy, predictable routine.
Need help choosing enrichment toys, calming supplements, or natural chews? Stop by the store—we'd love to help you find products that make your pet's transition to home-alone time as smooth and stress-free as possible.
