NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 30 – As children return to school after the holidays, Kenyan families are settling back into their usual routines. But the change can also affect pets, especially dogs that have become used to having children around throughout the day.
Judy Gachumi, Marketing Lead at PetStore Kenya, says the sudden change in routine can leave dogs bored, anxious or lonely when the household becomes quieter and they are left alone for much of the day.
She says dogs are creatures of routine and need time to adjust when family schedules change. Gachumi is urging families to pay attention to their pets’ emotional and behavioural needs, noting that responsible ownership goes beyond feeding a dog and having it protect the home.
In Kenya, there is a gradual shift from viewing dogs mainly as guard animals to seeing them as companions and family members with emotional and social needs.
Gachumi says families can make the transition easier by gradually re-establishing the school-day routine before children return to class. This includes adjusting feeding times, walks, playtime and rest periods so that dogs become familiar with the new rhythm.
“At PetStore Kenya, one message we keep reminding people is that dogs are part of the family and for some families, their dogs are their babies! They have names, personalities, favourite treats, favourite sleeping spots and, sometimes, a very strong opinion about who is allowed to sit on their favourite sofa!” Gachumi said.
“It is also important to make sure the dog still has quality interaction and mental stimulation during the day. A morning walk, appropriate toys, scent games or food puzzles can help keep them engaged,” she added.
Gachumi also advises parents to watch for changes in their pets’ behaviour, since animals often communicate stress through behaviour rather than words.
Dogs struggling with separation or a sudden change in routine may bark or whine excessively, become destructive, pace or appear restless. Other signs include changes in appetite, unusual toileting accidents, withdrawal or becoming unusually clingy.
“The response should be compassionate rather than punitive. Maintain a predictable routine, provide appropriate exercise and mental stimulation, and create a comfortable space where the pet feels secure. If the behaviour is severe, persistent, or accompanied by physical symptoms, it is important to consult a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviour professional,” she said.
Gachumi says parents can also help by keeping the relationship between their children and pets part of the daily routine, even when school takes up most of the day. This does not necessarily mean spending hours together, as consistency and quality time are more important.
Parents can involve children in age-appropriate aspects of pet care. Younger children can help with supervised grooming and play, while older children can take on responsibilities such as preparing meals or helping with walks.
These responsibilities help maintain the bond between children and their dogs while teaching them that a pet is not a toy that is available only when they are bored.
Common mistakes when keeping pets
Gachumi says one of the biggest mistakes families make is treating pets like humans, particularly by feeding them table scraps or too many treats instead of giving them a balanced diet.
She says some pets also get too little exercise, miss vaccinations or are taken to a veterinarian only after they become sick.
“At PetStore Kenya, we keep reminding families that responsible pet ownership is about prevention, not just treatment. Good nutrition, regular exercise, timely vaccinations, parasite control and routine vet checks go a long way in keeping pets healthy and happy,” she said.
Teaching children to interact safely with dogs
Gachumi says parents should teach children to respect every dog, including the family pet, because even friendly dogs have boundaries.
Children should not pull a dog’s ears or tail, climb on it, disturb it while eating or sleeping, or take away its food and toys.Instead, children should learn to read a dog’s body language and give it space when it wants to be left alone. When encountering an unfamiliar dog, Gachumi recommends that children follow the rule: “ask before you touch.”
What families should consider before getting a pet
Gachumi says Kenyans considering getting a pet should first establish whether they have the time, space and money to care for it properly.
She encourages prospective pet owners to consider the cost of quality food, veterinary care, vaccinations and emergencies, as well as what will happen when they travel, work long hours or go on holiday.
“Ask yourself: Do I have the space? The time? The budget for quality food, veterinary care, vaccinations and emergencies? What happens when I travel, work long hours or go on holiday? And does this animal genuinely fit our family’s lifestyle?” she said.
Gachumi says families should also remember that getting a pet is a long-term commitment, with dogs potentially living for 10 to 15 years.
Beyond security, she says dogs can provide companionship and emotional support and become an important part of family life.
“We should celebrate dogs for everything they bring to our homes beyond security. Yes, they may bark when someone approaches the gate, but they also become our therapists, walking partners, alarm clocks, homework companions and, occasionally, the most demanding members of the household!”
