As the school year begins, the household routine can shift dramatically—and our pets notice! Whether it’s quieter days at home, busier mornings, or new after-school activities, this transition can bring stress or confusion to our furry companions. We’d like to share some tips to help you help your pets feel more safe, secure, and loved as your family settles into the back-to-school routine. 

Prevent Separation Anxiety: Sudden schedule changes can lead to stress, especially for pets used to having family members around all day. Help ease this transition by gradually adjusting their routine in the week or two before school starts. Consider leaving interactive toys or puzzles to keep them occupied during the day, and spend quality time with them when you’re home. A walk or a little energetic playtime in the morning will help expend some excess energy before they spend the day at home. Consider asking a friend, neighbor, or trusted pet sitter to stop in during the day to check on and visit with your pet. 

Watch for Open Doors & Backpacks: With the rush of getting out the door in the mornings or returning home in the afternoons, it’s easy for pets to slip outside unnoticed. Make sure all family members know to close doors and gates securely. Remind kids not to leave backpacks on the floor, as they may contain snacks, gum, or school supplies that are unsafe for pets. 

To further protect your pets, make sure they’re microchipped and wearing up-to-date ID tags in case they do get out. MCHA offers affordable microchipping and wellness services through our nonprofit clinic and at our monthly Mobile Vaccine Clinics, helping ensure pets stay safe and healthy all year long. Learn more at monroehumane.org/vaccineclinics. 

Stick to a Routine: Pets thrive on consistency. Try to keep feeding times, walks, and playtime on a regular schedule, even when life gets busy. A predictable routine helps pets feel more secure and reduces behavior issues that can arise from stress or boredom. 

With a little planning, your pets can adjust smoothly and safely to the back-to-school season. Let’s make this fall a happy, healthy one for the whole family, including our furbabies!  

Have extra pet items to donate to MCHA’s annual community pet supply sale?

We’re currently accepting new or like-new item donations, including beds, toys, water/food bowls, leashes, collars, pet clothes, etc. We ask that items are washed prior to donation. Donations for the sale may be dropped off at our animal care campus through Thursday, August 28.

Be sure to save the date to come out to MCHA’s Animal Care Campus (791 S Fieldstone Blvd, Bloomington, IN 47403) to browse and shop for new and gently used pet care items from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday, September 6!

All proceeds from this sale benefit MCHA’s programs and services.

Questions? Email ktaylor@monroehumane.org.

If you are looking for something fun to do this week, we have the paw-ty for you! Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department is inviting the community and canine friends to attend the 20th Annual Drool in the Pool at Mills Pool this Wednesday and Thursday evening. Beginning at 5 p.m., dogs can dive in, splash around, and enjoy a fun-filled evening with tennis balls, chew toys, and exciting contests!

MCHA’s very own Executive Director, Andrew Krebbs, has the honor of being one of the judges on Thursday evening, so be sure to stop by the MCHA table and say hello!

Excitement is building for the 30th Annual Run for the Animals 5K taking place on October 5, and this year’s event is shaping up to be our best yet!

New in 2025, we’re thrilled to partner with Perfect Timing Race Management to oversee course management and race timing. Known for their work with major local events like Hoosiers Outrun Cancer and the Hoosier Half Marathon, their expertise will help elevate the runner experience while ensuring accurate and efficient results.

The course will once again start at Karst Farm Park and loop through the Monroe County Fairgrounds, but this year, we’re making it easier for participants and families to celebrate together. The awards ceremony and sponsor booths will now be located near the start/finish line, making for a more centralized, festive atmosphere—and faster results posting!

While Barktoberfest will no longer take place in the field near registration, we’re keeping the fun alive with raffles and fan-favorite contests, including the fastest peanut butter licker and best costume, now happening right after the awards ceremony.

Plus, we’re debuting a brand-new 2-color Run logo and offering multiple t-shirt color options this year! Extras can be purchased through the race store until August 18. View the race store, race day schedule, award categories, and/or register here.

We can’t wait to welcome hundreds of runners, walkers, and four-legged friends to this milestone event! We hope you’ll join us for a tail-wagging good time in support of animal welfare!

LEARN MORE & REGISTER

Thanks to Our Sponsors

Run for the Animals is presented by The Dog House, offering cage-free boarding in a cozy, home-like environment. With 24-hour staffing and personalized care, The Dog House strives to be your pet’s home away from home. Learn more at trydoghouse.com.

We’re happy to share that Bloomington Menards at 1285 Liberty Dr, Bloomington, IN 47403, is holding a pet food and supply donation drive for MCHA from now through September 30! Purchased items may be dropped in the donation bin on your way out of the store. We’re grateful for this wonderful support from Menards and our community!