Summer holidays can bring a welcome pause from everyday schedules. Between public holidays and long, warm afternoons, dogs and cats often enjoy the extra company and added social interactions.
When routines suddenly shift (like when their people head back to work or school), some pets can find the change unsettling. If your dog or cat spent much of the holidays with someone at home, returning to longer periods alone may feel distressingly unfamiliar.
Preparing early and easing back into regular routines can help make the transition smoother.
How to know if your dog or cat is feeling stressed
Dogs and cats can show stress in different ways, and it’s important to look at behaviour in context. New visiting humans or extra noise, the addition of guest pets, illness or neighbouring animals can also add stress over the holidays. What’s normal in one situation may be a sign of discomfort in another.
Common signs of stress in cats and dogs can include:
avoiding people or other animals;
excessive panting, yawning, shaking or lip licking;
loss of appetite;
toileting inside the house;
restlessness or difficulty settling;
excessive grooming or licking;
following you constantly;
destructive behaviour; and/or
excessive barking or howling.
If you notice ongoing stress behaviours in your cat or dog, a visit to your vet may be a good idea.
Your dog or cat's behaviour while you’re around can give clues about how they cope when you’re away. (A dog that follows you from room to room, for example, may struggle with independence once the house is quiet again.) To make things easier for your pet when you return to work, you could use a pet camera to check in during the day; ask a friend or family member to visit your home or garden; inquire with neighbours if they’ve noticed barking or howling; and pay attention to how your pet behaves when you return home.
How to prepare your dog or cat for a return to routine
Even if your pet seems settled, it helps to reintroduce time alone gradually. You could try:***
- Encouraging independence at home. Crate or “place” training can help your dog feel safe and relaxed without constant company.
- Practising short absences. Start by leaving for a few minutes and slowly build up the time away. Let your pet set the pace.
- Creating positive associations. Give your pet something safe and enjoyable when you leave, such as a puzzle feeder or special toy.
- Reducing departure cues. Move bags, shoes and keys around outside of leaving times so they’re less likely to trigger anxiety.
- Keeping reunions calm. Low-key arrivals help your pet feel secure and prevent them from anxiously waiting for you all day.
When you do leave your pet at home, a few small changes can make a big difference. Puzzle toys and enrichment activities offer mental stimulation that keep their minds busy, while rotating a small collection of toys keeps things interesting for your pet without overwhelming them. Longer walks before or after work can also help your pet relax during the day.
If your dog or cat shows unwanted behaviour while you’re away, it’s best not to punish them. Pets don’t link discipline with past actions. Instead, look at what they might be missing, such as exercise, stimulation or reassurance, and address the cause.
Helping your dog or cat feel confident on their own takes time. While you’re home, focus on meeting their physical and mental needs. If you need extra support, a professional dog walker, trainer or local dog club may be able to help.
If you’re worried about your pet’s behaviour or wellbeing, your vet may be the best place to start. They can help you understand what’s going on and recommend a plan that suits your pet.
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