Back to School Tips for Keeping Pets Happy, Engaged, and Comforted at Home

As families settle into their back-to-school routines, many pets are left wondering where their playmates went. With quieter homes and less stimulation during the day, it’s the perfect time to help pet parents keep their companions mentally enriched, emotionally comforted, and behaviorally balanced.

From training essentials and enrichment puzzles to cozy comfort zones and engaging chews, these products help manage separation anxiety, reduce mischief, and encourage healthy habits all day long.


🎓 LEARNING CURVE

Training Accessories, Aids & Treats to Encourage Good Behavior (and Curb the Bad)

Back-to-school season can be a tough adjustment for pets used to all-day attention. Help them adapt with training tools and reward-based treats that support learning, focus, and consistent behavior—even when routines shift.

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Skout’s Honor Training Aids – Great for deterring bad habits and encouraging new, good ones.
Adventure Training Treat Bags from ZippyPaws – Perfect for training on the go or at home.
Training Treats from Polkadog – Wholesome, small-batch treats ideal for positive reinforcement.
Bocce’s Bakery Training Bites – Limited-ingredient, low-calorie treats made for repetition.
Etta Says Sit! Training Treats – High-value, bite-sized snacks for focused behavior shaping.

🧠 BOREDOM BUSTERS

Enrichment Feeders, Interactive Toys & Puzzles

Bored pets often become destructive pets. Keep their minds active and engaged with enrichment toys and feeders that provide mental stimulation and rewarding challenges.

 

SodaPup eMats, eBowls & eTrays – Design beautiful, lickable meals that calm and entertain.
ThoozyPet Feed Stainless Steel Slow Feeders – A unique take on slow feeding with high durability and modern design.
ZippyPaws Enrichment Puzzle Feeders – Bright, interactive feeders that combine play and snack time.
Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toys – Tiered difficulty puzzles for smart, curious dogs.
KONG Interactive Treat Dispensers and Enrichment Toys – Time-tested toys that occupy and satisfy chewers.
GURU Treat Dispensing Toys – Fresh, functional designs for treat-filled enrichment.
Yeti Dog Chew Puff & Play Toys – Microwave for a crunchy twist on long-lasting chews.
BARK SuperChewer Rip & Reveal Toys – Tough toys with hidden treat compartments and interactive fun.

🐱 PURR-FECT ATTENDANCE

Cat Essentials for Enrichment, Calming & Play

Cats need stimulation too—especially when the house gets quieter. From puzzle toys to calming aids, these products help indoor kitties stay cool, collected, and curious during the day.

Catstages Image

Catstages Slow Feeders & Puzzle Toys – Tap into cats’ natural hunting and problem-solving instincts.
ZippyClaws Burrows & Kickerz – Engaging toys that promote active solo play.
Meowijuana Refillable Catnip Toys – High-quality toys you can refresh over and over again.
Feliway Cat Calming Diffusers – Proven pheromone-based comfort for anxious felines.
Vetality Cat Calming Products – Gentle, vet-formulated options to reduce stress and restlessness.

🍪 AFTER SCHOOL SNACKS

Engaging Treats & Chews to Distract and Satisfy

As the day winds down and pets start to crave attention, give them something tasty to focus on. These engaging treats and chews are perfect for solo downtime or post-walk relaxation.

NEW ThoozyPet Chews – 100% USA-sourced bully sticks, bones, and more—long-lasting, single-ingredient chews ideal for occupied, happy dogs.
Barkworthies Stuffed Beef Bootie Hooves & Shin Bones – Long-lasting and freezer-friendly for extended distraction.
Project Hive Treats – Crunchy, clean ingredients that pair perfectly with Hive treat stuffer toys.

🛏️ SAFE HAVEN

Comfort Products That Create a Secure Space

Pets need a place to relax and reset—especially when the house feels a little lonelier. Offer cozy comfort with products that turn a quiet corner into a safe, soothing retreat.

Best Friends by Sheri Dog & Cat Cozy Cuddlers, Huts, and Calming Donut Beds – Soft, supportive designs perfect for nesting, relaxing, and staying warm.
ThoozyPet Tuff & Cuddly Collection – Combines plush comfort with durable materials for pets who need softness and strength.
Multipet Plush Lamb Chop Toys – A comforting classic with soft textures and squeaky fun—available in exclusive versions only at Pet Palette Distribution.



By offering solutions that address enrichment, training, comfort, and calming, you help pet parents navigate the transition back to school while supporting their pets' emotional and behavioral well-being.

Need help planning your assortment or looking for product recommendations tailored to your store? Reach out to our team—we’re here to support your success this season and beyond.


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