Back to school: not just sad for kids

After a summer of freedom, with the kids having plenty of time to romp and play with the family dog, returning to school can be hard on everyone.

Dogs sometimes have trouble adapting to the new schedules as kids head back to school. Bark Busters, a dog training company, offers some helps and hints for families who are about to launch into fall with classes, homework and all the extracurricular activities:

"When kids return to school, the stress on every family member can be huge -- including the family dog," said Liam Crowe, master dog behavioralist and CEO of Bark Busters USA. "This abrupt change in routine can seriously affect our canine companions, who are creatures of habit. But with a little understanding and preparation before the first day of class, families can avoid many of the back-to-school behavior issues their dogs might exhibit."

Issues include separation anxiety, boredom, and unusual behaviors. The article offers ways families can cope with some of those issues.

HT: Dogster