Question: I'm a teacher and headed back to school and my son who spent the most time with our dog is headed for college. Is there anything we can do to make the transition easier for our dog?

Answer: For pets left alone most of the day, there are many things you can do to make the time more enjoyable.

Make your departure and return as nonchalant as possible. Install a pet door so they have access to the indoors and outdoors. Leave a television or radio on for sound comfort. Hire someone in your neighborhood to stop by during the day and take your dog for a walk.

The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes questions by e-mail, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Indicate “;Pet Ohana”; in the subject line. Or, write “;Pet Ohana,”; Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 96826.