Is your dog ready for back to school? With summer coming to an end, domestic schedules will be changing and dogs used to spending a lot of time with the family will have to adjust like everyone else.

Veterinarian Ernie Ward, founder and president of the Association for Pet Obesity, has suggestions for easing this transition:

• Leave favorite toys around so when your dog wakes up, it can find something to play with.

• Leave an old T-shirt you've worn (but not washed) by your dog's bed so it will smell you and feel more secure.

• Get your dog used to being alone again by leaving the house for longer periods of time each day.

• Take your dog for long walks as often as you can to help you both avoid post-summer weight gain.

For information on obesity risks and ideal weight ranges for cats and dogs, visit www.petobesityprevention.com.

• PET RELO SITE: Relocating Americans also have to move their pets, and PetRelocation.com aims to meet their information and service needs.

The interactive site offers door-to-door transportation, both national and international, including flight bookings, customs clearance and delivery.

Free services include tips on such issues as helping pets cope with the stress of moving and finding a pet-friendly airline. There's a video on choosing an airline-approved travel crate and help networking with other pet owners on the move.

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