Using a boarding facility for the first time requires temporarily leaving your dog in someone else’s care. Dog boarding provides you with a safe and secure environment for your dog when you are away. A suitable boarding facility will make sure your dog is comfortable, entertained, and well-fed. Here are a few tips to prepare your dog for their first boarding experience:
Practice Short Separations
Your dog may experience separation anxiety when you leave them in a boarding facility. You can ease this anxiety by practicing short separations beforehand. When you are going out, leave your dog alone for a short time and gradually increase the duration. This will help your dog become accustomed to being away from you, allowing them to feel more at ease in a boarding setting.
Practicing short separations is a way to gauge your dog’s reaction and behavior when they are left alone. Observe how your dog behaves and look for signs of stress. You create a gradual process of leaving your dog for extended periods, allowing them to adjust at their own pace.
Pack Comfort Items
Packing a few items from home, such as a favorite toy or blanket, allows you to bring some familiarity with you. You contribute to making the new environment feel more like home for your dog, leading to less stress. Confirm that the boarding facility employees are comfortable with these items and inform them of any specific instructions regarding their use. Your dog may also benefit from having a piece of clothing with your scent on it. This can provide them with a sense of security and reassurance while you are away. Confirm with dog boarding centers if they allow you to bring such items.
Set Up a Routine
If you have your dog on a routine at home, let the management know so that they are consistent. Tell them how many times and at what time you exercise them. You can leave them a routine or schedule of activities for the facility employees to follow.
Be sure to provide clear written directions for medication, treatment, or restrictions on food. It is also a good idea to leave your contact information with the facility in the event of an emergency. Certain boarding facilities also require your pet to be fully vaccinated before staying overnight, as this will help prevent the spread of disease or infections.
Explore New Environments
Plan a short test stay at the boarding facility, so your dog becomes familiar with the environment. When you are there with your dog, spend time playing or walking around the facility to help them become familiar with their surroundings. This also leaves you an opportunity to observe how your dog reacts to staff and other dogs.
Contact a Reliable Dog Boarding Facility
Building a relationship with your dog’s boarding facility is beneficial. You can evaluate their services, ask about their pet policies, and find out if they have any special requirements before your stay. Start your search today for a reliable dog boarding facility in your area.