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School’s out, routines are out the window, and the house is suddenly full of noise, energy, and snack wrappers. For your pets, this seasonal shift can be confusing—if not downright stressful. While the kids are thrilled to be home, your dog, cat, rabbit or feathered friend might be wondering why the peace and quiet has been replaced with bubble wands and bickering.

Managing pets during the school holidays is all about balancing excitement with stability. Here’s how to help your pets feel safe, settled, and cared for—without curbing the fun for the rest of the family.

1. Keep Some Kind of Routine

Pets thrive on routine. While your mornings might now involve cartoon marathons and cereal picnics, try to keep key pet routines the same.

• Feed them at their usual times
• Stick to regular walk or play sessions
• Maintain familiar sleep spaces or quiet zones

Even if everything else is topsy-turvy, consistent care helps pets feel secure amid the chaos.

2. Create Safe, Calm Spaces

Your pets might love the kids, but everyone needs a break—yes, even the dog who follows them everywhere.

Set up a pet-only zone:

• A quiet corner with their bed and toys
• A room with limited access if they need complete downtime
• For smaller pets, ensure their cages/hutches are in low-traffic areas

Teach children that when pets are in their space, it’s time to let them rest. Even the most patient animals can get overwhelmed with constant attention.

3. Supervise Young Children Closely

If your children are younger or not used to being home with pets all day, now’s the time for a quick refresher on pet manners.

Teach them to:

• Avoid disturbing animals when they’re eating or sleeping
• Use calm voices and gentle hands
• Recognise signs their pet wants space (turning away, hiding, tail flicking)

If you’ve got new pets or excitable kids, always supervise their interactions. It’s safer for everyone (including your cushions).

4. Include Pets in the Fun—With Boundaries

Pets often love to be part of the family action, and there are safe ways to include them:

• Let the kids create a pet “summer camp” with supervised games or training
• Go on family walks or park outings (early or late in the day to avoid hot pavements)
• Get them involved in a calm activity like storytime or movie night cuddles

Just be mindful of overexcitement—especially in hot weather. Dogs can overheat quickly, and some pets are easily stressed by loud noises and unpredictable movement.

5. Watch for Signs of Stress

When managing pets during the school holidays, it’s important to stay alert to any behavioural changes. Watch out for:

• Hiding more than usual
• Loss of appetite
• Restlessness or pacing
• Excessive grooming or scratching
• Growling or snapping

These can be signs that your pet is feeling overwhelmed. Dial things back, give them more space, and keep routines consistent.

6. Factor Them into Your Plans

If you’re off on day trips or holidays, make sure pet care is part of the planning:

• Arrange for a trusted pet sitter, friend, or neighbour
• Keep emergency contacts and vet details up to date
• Leave clear instructions if someone else is looking after them
• Avoid leaving dogs alone for long stretches—especially if they’re used to someone always being home now

If you’re doing lots of day trips, try alternating who stays back or make use of doggy daycare if your pet enjoys social time.

7. Be Mindful of Holiday Hazards

Summer brings a few extra risks to keep an eye on:

• Hot weather: Never leave pets in cars, and avoid midday walks
• BBQ season: Watch for bones, kebab sticks, chocolate, and onions—all dangerous to dogs
• New toys and craft bits: Small parts can be choking hazards
• Fireworks and loud celebrations: Some areas have summer events—make sure pets have a safe, quiet space

Keep their environment tidy, and make sure visitors know the house rules when it comes to your animals.

A Happy Holiday for All

The school holidays can be loud, lively, and a little chaotic—and that’s part of the charm. But your pets didn’t ask for the schedule shake-up. With a few simple tweaks and a little extra attention, managing pets during the school holidays can be stress-free for you, your children, and your furry (or feathered) friends.

So while the kids build dens and chase bubbles, let your pets enjoy their own little summer sanctuary—complete with peace, routine, and the occasional crust of toast stolen from the kitchen floor.