If you’re like most dog owners, the idea of leaving your furry friend behind while you head out on vacation can be a little daunting. You may worry about how they’ll handle being in a new environment, whether they’ll be lonely or scared, or if they’ll miss you too much. The good news is that there are ways to help prepare your dog for a boarding session – and the professionals at Berkshire Dogs Unleashed can help! There are plenty of benefits of utilizing a dog board kennel. In this blog post, we will provide tips from the pros on how to make your dog’s boarding experience as stress-free as possible.
Drop Your Dog Off Early
If possible, drop your dog off at the boarding facility early the day of their stay. This will give them time to adjust to their new surroundings and get comfortable with the staff. It will also allow the staff to get to know your dog and their personality, which will help them provide the best possible care.
Dropping your dog off early the day of to attend a doggy daycare session will also help them have a chance to socialize and exercise before their stay. This can help to tire them out so they are more likely to sleep through the night.
Consider Doing a Shorter Term Boarding Trial before Your Trip
If you’re really worried about your dog’s reaction to being boarded, consider doing a shorter-term trial run before your trip. For example, drop them off for a day or two while you’re still in town. This will give you peace of mind knowing that they are adjusting well and will be less anxious when you leave them for a longer period of time.
This will also help your dog get more acclimated to the facility and make them more comfortable with their surroundings when they need to stay for a longer duration.
Make Sure All Their Vaccinations Are Up to Date
Before you drop your dog off at the boarding facility, make sure that all of their vaccinations are up to date. This is important for the safety of your dog and the other dogs at the facility. Most boarding facilities will require proof of vaccination before they can accept your dog.
Make the Boarding Facility More Familiar by Utilizing Doggy Daycare
If your dog has never stayed at a boarding facility before, it may be helpful to start with doggy daycare first. This way, they can get used to being around other dogs and the staff in a less daunting environment. Once they’re more comfortable, you can then transition them to an overnight stay.
Bring Something Familiar
When staying overnight bring their favorite blanket or an old t-shirt that smells like home to help your dog feel more comfortable. Having a piece of home with them can help to ease any anxiety they may be feeling.
Exercise Your Dog Before Bringing Them to the Facility
A tired dog is a good dog. If you can, try to get in a long walk or play session before bringing them to the boarding facility. This will help to wear them out so they’re more likely to sleep through the night. It will also help to reduce any separation anxiety they may be feeling.
Say Goodbye Quickly and Calmly
When it’s time to say goodbye, do it quickly and calmly. If you prolong your goodbyes, it will only make the separation harder on both of you. Give them a quick pat on the head and tell them you’ll see them soon. Then, walk away confidently. This will help to reassure your dog that everything is going to be alright.
Final Thoughts
We hope these tips have helped to ease your mind about leaving your dog at a boarding facility. Remember, the staff at Berkshire Dogs Unleashed are experts in dog care and will do everything they can to make sure your furry friend is happy, safe, and comfortable during their stay. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We’re always here to help.