Preparing your pet dog for a stay at a boarding kennel can be a stressful experience for both you and your furry companion. However, with a little preparation and some positive reinforcement, your dog can have a comfortable and enjoyable stay while you are away.
As a kennel owner-operator in the Spokane Valley of Washington state, I can say I’ve learned a plenty about dog health and temperaments when their owners are away. And whether your local kennel is modest or like my place with nearly 20,000 square and onsite vet and spa services, each dog (and owner) is unique with particular preferences but also there are issues which always remain constant with our four-legged family members. Keep in mind, your local kennel doesn’t have to do the whole upscale experience the way some places do- but do they get the basics right? This is what’s truly important to keep in mind before dropping off your pet to assure a safe and stimulating environment.
So lets start with human-dog interactions. Does your local kennel have enough staff members interacting with your dog on a continuous basis? This is something to note at the outset and also make sure the kennel staff separates “small dog” from “big dog” play groups to avoid rough play and injuries . All dogs should be matched for sociability and temperament- whether by breed or by size. This is really critical for puppies and high-energy dogs.
That said, other basic standards apply, such as the importance of making sure the boarding facility has a reputable and trustworthy public profile. This can involve researching different facilities in your area, reading reviews, and visiting the kennel in person to ensure that it meets your standards for cleanliness, safety, and care.
Once you have selected a boarding facility, it is important to prepare your dog for their stay. This can involve gradually getting your dog used to being away from you for short periods of time, such as by leaving them alone for a few minutes at a time and gradually increasing the length of time. It can also involve socializing your dog with other dogs, as many boarding kennels have communal play areas where dogs can interact with each other. This can be done by taking your dog to a local dog park or by enrolling them in a doggy daycare program.
In addition to preparing your dog for the social aspect of boarding, it’s also important to make sure they’re comfortable with being handled and groomed. A lot of boarding facilities will require dogs to be bathed, brushed or groomed. If your dog is not used to this, it’s a good idea to start a grooming routine at home a few weeks before the stay. Giving them a gentle brush or bath at home and rewarding them with treats for good behavior can help them be more comfortable with grooming procedures at the kennel.
Another important aspect of preparing your dog for a boarding stay is to make sure they are up-to-date on all of their vaccinations and that they are in good overall health. Many boarding kennels will require proof of vaccinations and a clean bill of health from a veterinarian before allowing a dog to stay at the facility.
Finally, it’s a good idea to pack a few of your dog’s favorite toys or blankets to help them feel more comfortable and at home while they are away. A familiar scent can provide a sense of comfort to your dog during their stay. Additionally, you should pack enough food and treats to last the entire stay, especially if your dog has specific dietary needs or allergies.
Overall, preparing your dog for a stay at a boarding kennel can take some time and effort, but it is well worth it to ensure that your furry companion is comfortable and happy while you are away. With proper preparation, your dog can have a stress-free and enjoyable stay at the boarding kennel.
Can aid in reducing behavioral problems – especially for active breeds
Builds confidence in dogs that are timid or not often exposed to other dogs
Provides physical activity, exercise and stimulation
