by Team WellJoy
Pets absolutely love routine. Knowing that each day looks mostly like the one before gives them a sense of security. But then summer comes along, and everything gets a bit… well, un-routine.
When our schedules change because of school vacations, trips away, family visits or hotter weather, it impacts our pets. They might be left alone more often, finding themselves around unfamiliar people, or even aware of different noises around the house.
One survey showed that cat owners reported anxiety triggered by all of these things, and studies have also suggested that dogs experience elevated stress hormones from being left alone.
Rescue pets can be more susceptible to separation anxiety, and recently adopted animals are often more affected by changes in routine, even after they’ve settled into a new home. And we can’t forget the pets that are just that little bit more sensitive – readers, we feel you nodding along – and know you’re no doubt hyper-aware of any changes.
Shifting routines are a fact of life, but happily there are ways to make it easier on your pet.
New routine? Here’s how to help your pet
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Support calmness first
Already know you have a big vacation coming up or a new pet-sitter? Start your supplement routine early.
Instead of only bringing out the WellJoy Calming+ supplements for your cat or dog when the changes happen, we recommend giving the recommended number of chews to your pets in the days or weeks before disruption. That gives the active ingredients time to take effect, rather than trying to calm down an already anxious pet.
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‘Rehearse’ the changes
Start to desensitize your pet to the things that might make them feel anxious.
For example, if you’re going to be out of the house more often or for longer than normal, practice your leaving routines – picking up keys, getting out the luggage – without actually leaving. This can make those leaving cues feel less scary.
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Keep as much of the routine as possible
Even if your own schedule is changing, that doesn’t mean your pet’s whole day has to shift around. Keeping ‘anchor’ moments like walk times or dinner times consistent can give them familiarity and comfort, even as other changes happen.
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Offer calm, low-key attention
What could be better than the biggest, grandest gesture of affection for your pet? As Pet Loyalists we might love them, but these big excitable moments can in fact inadvertently reinforce our pets’ anxiety. If your cat or dog is adapting to routine change, more gentle, consistent, calm reassurance can be beneficial.
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Try physical calming tools
Some pets might find help in a calming vest, which applies the sort of constant, gentle pressure that humans get from weighted blankets. Pheromone diffusers or sprays are also an option for stressed pets.
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Choose the pet care that suits them best
Some pets absolutely love being dropped off at their boarding place. Other pets might find it easier to stay in their home with a pet-sitter. It really all depends on your pet’s personality – and no-one knows that better than you, their Pet Loyalist.
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Use smell to reassure
If the big change involves a stay at a family member’s home or a boarding place, it can help to send a familiar scent with them. Whether your pet loves lying on bedclothes straight from the laundry basket, your oldest sweater, or a pair of well-loved socks, pack something that reminds them of home and offers some extra comfort.
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Ask your veterinarian for help
If your pet is struggling, and showing signs of stress (we’ve shared a visual guide below), then it might be time to talk to a veterinarian. They can help rule out medical causes, suggest medication if appropriate, and give you guidance on how to help your pet from a behavioral point of view.
Settling happens gradually
While it’s important to keep an eye out for serious signs of stress, most pets will gradually begin to settle into new routines, with any big feelings of uncertainty peaking at the start.
And for the Pet Loyalists that might be feeling guilty – don’t. One study showed that pet anxiety does tend to rise around big schedule shifts, something researchers noticed as pets transitioned into and out of pandemic-era routines. It’s a very normal reaction, and in most instances one that pets and their Loyalists can ride out together.
We’re proud to say that all of WellJoy’s content is fact-checked and verified by a Pet Loyalist team, including a veterinarian trained in companion animal nutrition and a PhD board-certified companion animal nutritionist.
