Being separated from your dog can be hard, so it’s important to know exactly how they will be looked after when you’re away from each other. If you’re looking into boarding kennels for your pooch because you’re going on holiday or anything similar, here are a few simple tips.
Preparing Your Dog
The outcome of your dog staying away from home hinges on two things. 1) How well the care professional look after their needs and 2)if you’ve properly prepared them for the break away.
It can be a stressful time for your dog if it’s in an unfamiliar environment but on the other hand, it can also be extremely exciting for them too! Being around so many other dogs may gee them up a lot and send them into a bit of a fun frenzy so be sure to try and have them spend time with other dogs before you send them off.
Weight loss isn’t too uncommon for dogs in temporary care and also neither is weight gain. A change of environment can be a big change for the metabolism of your dog so prepare yourself for it by changing their diet based on their personality before they go in. Excitable dogs should be given slightly less food than usual as they’re likely to gorge in a care home whereas nervy dogs may be reticent to chow down so freely, perhaps give them plenty of food to compensate before they go in.
Which boarding facility should I go to?
No doubt your pet means a lot to you so it would make a lot of sense for you to go for the very best boarding home that you can. Not only does this give you peace of mind but it will probably will for your dog too. Whether you are looking for kennels in Llandudno or Lanzarote, you should take the time to find the one to suit you.
Don’t make a snap decision. Instead, be sure to visit the kennels and ask any questions you feel like you need to. Kennel workers are dog lovers too so they will have no qualms with answering any and all questions, just to make you feel comforted. If your dog has special requirements, you won’t get a better opportunity to ask the carers if they’re equipped to deal with them.
Of course, the number one thing to look out for when selecting a boarding home is that they have a good reputation. If any of your friends or colleagues have boarded dogs in the past, ask them where they chose and if they’d recommend it.
Why should I board my dog?
If you’re going away for long periods of time, are renovating your property or simply want to help your dog integrate better with others, there are few better places to do any of this than with a specialist boarding home.
Sometimes, it can just be nice to go away on vacation and leave everything behind and besides that, many hotels and airlines may not accept dogs if you’re going abroad. Leaving them well catered for in a temporary home is the accepted solution for your furry friend if you’re going on a break and is suitable for many kinds of dogs. Older dogs, puppies, and those who may be susceptible to illness may not be suitable for boarding and can be left with your veterinarian instead.
Leaving your dog with the caring professionals instead of a close friend leaves you content in the knowledge that they are doing the right job and caring for your dog’s needs. It never hurts to ask the boarding home what kind of experience and qualifications the average staff member has before you leave your dog in their care.
What do I do once I take my dog home?
As excited as you both may be to see each other again, it’s often advised to not feed your dog until at least three hours after you are reunited. Excitement can play havoc with a dog’s digestive system. Be sure to ask the carers what kind of diet he or she have been enjoying and try to adjust away from that and back into their regular routine accordingly.
Also, all the excitement can make your dog thirsty and cause them to pant. To avoid dehydration, make sure you give them plenty of water after you pick them up from their temporary home. Now that the two of you are reunited, be sure to keep the care providers in mind for the next time you go away.
