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Fighting Fido's back-to-school blues

By Lauren Johnston , Staff Writer | lauren.johnston@am-ny.com
11:58 AM EDT, September 19, 2008
Classic Kong dog toy

Classic Kong dog toy. (Handout Photo / September 23, 2008)


It's no secret that most kids dread the shift from carefree summer fun to backpacks and homework, but did you know it can also be a real downer for the family dog?

For months -- an eternity in canine time -- Fido played tug-of-war and fetch with a full-time friend. So if your pup has seemed depressed or even destructive since classes resumed, it could be the back-to-school blues.

Christina Shusterich, a local canine behavior counselor, says many dogs are sensitive to change and can suffer separation anxiety. "A good idea to ease these transitions for dogs is enriching their environment," she said.

That means more exercise and toys. Fifteen toys to be exact. Shusterich suggests leaving your pup a mix of five chewing and puzzle toys at a time, and rotating the selection week-to-week so your dog doesn't get bored.

In particular, she likes the Everlasting Treat Ball. "It's like a lollipop for dogs. It gives them a job to do and that constant licking is calming," she said.

Also key is an increase in aerobic activity.

"Any dog that is under-stimulated is going to be depressed," said David Muriello, director of training at Biscuits and Bath.

Muriello advises these five exercises to help dog owners keep their furry friends active and entertained. "This is a menu they should look at each day and choose one or more items," he said.

1. Playing with family members
2. Walks: For most dogs the more the better
3. Dog-and-dog play: Likely to be more vigorous and will wear your dog out, but doesn't encourage human bonding so you need a mix of both
4. Training: This is mentally and physically stimulating and will tire your dog out
5. Chewing or doing food puzzles: Food-stuffing toys like the KONG line keep your dog occupied and thinking, and the chewing is also a workout

Related topic galleries: Separation Anxiety, Baby Products, Games, and Toys, Toys, Toy Industry

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