Lifestyle
Golden Retriever’s Confusion Over Kids Going Back to School Is So Bittersweet
It’s September and school is back in session. Those iconic yellow buses are on the road once again and kids are hitting the books rather than the playgrounds. It’s a bittersweet season for parents, where they welcome some quiet time yet miss those lazy hazy days of summer with their little ones.
Our fur babies also need time to adjust after having constant playmates around. This Golden Retriever is clearly bewildered as to why the kids from the neighborhood aren’t waiting for her in their usual spot.
In the TikTok from @ewhuman96, the gorgeous Golden was out for a walk with her mom and searching frantically near some houses on her street. The precious pooch seemed distressed because she couldn’t find what she was looking for, no matter how hard she tried.
“She doesn’t understand why the neighbors’ children don’t come out to play anymore… (summer vacation is over, they are back to school),” the onscreen text explained.
The Golden Retriever whined, as if she was begging for her friends to appear. She tried one house after another but to no avail.
“Heartbreak everytime we take this route,” the caption shared.
Related: Golden Retriever Has Cutest Way of ‘Demanding’ Mom’s Help
Beginning of School Year Is Tough for Pets
This confused canine couldn’t figure out why her playmates were missing, causing her some anxiety and sadness. Many pets get accustomed to children being home in the summer, where they receive extra attention and companionship. Once school is back in session, our fur babies feel the void. Emotional responses can include:
Loneliness and separation anxiety, which can lead to behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, or indoor bathroom accidents
Depression and lethargy often happens in cats, where they withdraw, sleep more, or lose interest and motivation in activities
Boredom and restlessness can manifest since your pets aren’t getting the level of interaction they did during the summer, which can prompt destructive actions like scratching furniture or chewing shoes.
You can help your pet through the transition by giving them extra affection, getting them some new toys for a challenge, or even hiring a pet sitter if you’re short on time. Maintaining their routine will help them feel secure, and have your kids give them plenty of attention before and after school.
Hopefully this Golden Retriever will get some extra playtime with her pals on the weekend.
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This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Sep 5, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.