Back To School Plans For Our 4-Legged Pals: School Is Not Just For Pet People
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As summer winds down and students prepare to head back to their classrooms, it’s not just the two-legged family members that could use a bit of educational enrichment. Our furry friends, our 4-legged pals, are also ready for their own back to school preparation. We’re not just talking about training or obedience classes, but preparing for more time alone, a change in walk schedule, and less play time. Let’s explore the importance of pet education, pet education options, and a pet’s life when everyone is away at work and school.
Create a Back-to-School Routine
Pets thrive on routine, and establishing a school schedule can help ease them into the learning process. Start with a consistent waking time, meal schedule, and exercise routine, and gradually introduce school activities. If you pet will be spending time alone during the day, consider adding a few entertaining toys like a search and find rug, treat maze, or toy filled with dog snacks.
“We like to think of our champions and idols as superheroes who were born different from us. We don’t like to think of them as relatively ordinary people who made themselves extraordinary.”
Carol S. Dweck
Skip The Car Line When You Go Back To School
Skip the car on nice days and plan your afternoon dog walk to pick up kids after school. If school is not walkable, jump in the car together, but plan to hit the park, walking trails, or take your afternoon walks together.
“You have brains in your head.
Dr. Seuss
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.”
Plan an After-School Pet Program
While many schools no longer require homework, why not replace it with dog training time. A great opportunity for children to learn leadership, patience, and time management. Encourage them to make a doggy lesson plan and outfit them with treats, pet supplies, and a good training book to make the lessons complete.
“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.”
Theodore Roosevelt
Schedule A Dog Walker, Pet Trainer, Or Pet Sitter
We often think of dog walkers and pet sitters as a city thing or something you do when you go on vacation, but there are plenty of services and individuals who are in business to help you care for your pets. Consider being added to their daily schedule for a quick walk to break up the day, have them come a couple of times a week for a training session or longer walk, or drop off your pet at a doggy daycare or day program.
“Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.”
George Washington Carver
Utilize Technology
There are so many great gadgets on the market that let us interact with our pets. Smart treat shooters, interactive cameras, and even speakers that let you speak to your pets throughout the day. These gadgets connect to your phone, with apps that can be added to each family members phone. You will want to set rules for phone time, but if there is time during the day, the whole family can do a pet check.
Good Time for Pet School
Pet education is more than just teaching your dog to sit or stay or determine the cat from eating what they should not eat. It’s about mental stimulation, discipline, socialization, and overall wellness. Just like human children, pets can benefit greatly from structured learning, not only to perform tricks but to live healthier and happier lives. While most dog breeds train well, others, not so much and we are not sure you can call it cat training, but you can teach them many things and most will respond well.
Finding the perfect school for your pet requires research and understanding your pet’s individual needs. Consider their breed, personality, age, and any specific requirements they may have.
Different Types of Pet Schools
- Obedience Training: This is the most common form of schooling, focusing on behavior and commands. Classes can range from beginner to advanced levels.
- Agility Training: For those pets with boundless energy, agility training can be an excellent outlet. It also fosters teamwork between pet and owner.
- Therapy Animal Training: If your pet has the right temperament, they might be a candidate for therapy animal training. These animals are taught to provide comfort to those in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities.
- Specialized Skills Training: Some pets can be trained for specific tasks or jobs, such as herding or hunting. This can provide purpose and satisfaction to certain breeds.
- Socialization Classes: These classes are essential for younger pets, helping them to learn how to interact with other animals and humans.
Look for schools that are:
- Certified by professional organizations
- Have experienced and well-trained staff
- Offer a variety of classes
- Provide a safe and clean environment
Pet schooling is not just for show or novelty. It helps in:
- Enhancing mental and physical stimulation
- Increasing bond and understanding between pet and owner
- Improving social skills with other animals and humans
- Providing essential life skills for a harmonious home life
“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.”
Thomas Edison
Interactive Pet Toys For Dogs & Cats Who Are Home Alone
For The Dog
And for the cat
Conclusion
Learning is something we should never stop doing! It helps the minds of pets and people stay healthy, grow, and constantly improve. Strive to learn something new every day, to teach something to someone else, and to never be afraid to ask why! Embrace this year in new and even better ways!
Here are a few more shops that might inspire your for back to school:
