Helping Your Dog Adjust to Routine Changes & Staying Safe During Storms 🐶⛈️

I hope you had a wonderful January and are getting ready for back-to-school or work! ✨📚💼 

As we settle back into work and school routines, it can be a bit tough for our dogs 🐾—especially puppies who may not be used to spending time alone yet.

Here are some simple tips to help your dog adjust to longer periods without you:

🎶 Leave calming sounds on: Try leaving the TV or radio on with soothing music. This can help your dog feel more relaxed while you’re away. 🎵 Check out this calming playlist: 🎧 Click here 

🐕 Take a ‘sniffy’ walk: If you have time before you head off, take your dog for a walk. This will tire them out and help reduce anxiety while you're gone. Otherwise, a walk in the afternoon is great too! 🚶‍♂️🌳 

🧩 Set up enrichment activities: Keep your dog entertained by hiding food around the house or yard, or using toys like Lickimats or snuffle mats. You can also try some ACE free work to boost their emotional well-being. Just be mindful of safety around other dogs and children—avoid small objects they could choke on. 🦴🐶 Watch here: ▶️ Click here 

🛏️ Create a safe space: Set up a quiet, comfy space where your dog feels secure—like a cozy bed in a peaceful area or access to a quiet spot via a doggy door. 

👕 Leave something with your scent: A piece of clothing with your scent on it can comfort your dog while you’re away. ❤️ 

📹 Use a pet camera: Checking in on your dog while you’re out can be reassuring. It also helps you spot any behaviour issues early. 🐾 

🚨 Signs of separation anxiety? If your dog is excessively howling, barking, having accidents, or being destructive, please reach out! Separation anxiety is serious and may require professional training or a vet visit for additional advice and/or medication. 

❌ Adding another dog isn’t always the solution—especially if the anxiety is about being separated from you. It’s best to tackle anxiety with proper support.

Let’s help our pups adjust smoothly! 🐕💛 🌩️ Reminder: Keep Your Dog Safe During Storms! 🐾 With recent storms causing many dogs to escape from yards, it’s important to take a few steps to keep your furry friends safe. 

• Collar & Name Tag: Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with an up-to-date name tag. This is required under the NSW Companion Animals Act and helps others contact you if your dog gets out. If your dog tends to lose their name tag often, you can have your phone number embroidered directly onto the collar.

• Secure Gates: Check that all gates are locking properly and consider adding an extra lock for added security.

• Update Records: Ensure that your contact information is current in the Council’s records so they can reach you if needed.

• Safe Spaces: During stormy or windy weather, create a safe, calm space for your dog to stay in. Many dogs need to move around if they are scared though so avoid locking them in a crate or kennel. This will add to their fear

• Storm Phobia: If your dog is scared of storms, talk to your vet about possible solutions or medications to help them cope. 
  

By taking these steps, you can help your dog stay safe and secure during bad weather.