Boarding your dog at a local kennel is a great way to ensure their comfort and safety while you're away on vacation or for any other reason. You can count on Fido being fed, walked, bathed, and housed in a caring environment that is designed specifically to meet your dog's needs. But if your dog has never been away from home alone before, they may show signs of stress and agitation if they aren't prepared for the experience first. Here's how you can prep Fido for boarding success while you're away:
Practice at Home
A great way to make sure that your dog will feel comfortable being kenneled while you're away is to practice at home beforehand. Obtain a schedule from the boarding kennel you'll be using so you can incorporate walk times, meal times, and other scheduled activities into your own routine at home. You should also set up a small kennel that's similar to that at the boarding facility in the yard so your dog can get used to spending time in it. This process should get your dog used to the routine they'll keep while you are away so they feel a sense of security in the new and unfamiliar environment they'll face.
Make a Couple Pre-Visits
Another effective method of prepping your pooch for success at the boarding kennel is to make a couple of pre-visits before it's time to actually board him. This will give him a chance to get used to the sights, sounds, and smells of the place. It will also give the facilitators a chance to gain insight into his personality and quirks so they'll be prepared to relate to him during his stay. Each visit should be at different times of the day so your dog can experience everything they'll be exposed to during their stay.
Schedule Some Play Dates
Ask the dog kennel facility you'll be using, such as Alpha K-9 Kennels, to connect you with other dog owners who will be using their services at the same time as you so you can schedule some play dates with each other's pooches. This will give them a chance to get to know one another so they are already companions once they become temporary roommates at the boarding facility, and reduce the chance of aggressive behavior between your dog and others.
With the help of these tips and tricks, your dog should feel comfortable while you are away, and you'll have peace of mind in knowing that they'll be happy and well balanced upon your return.
Share18 March 2016
I have opened my home to foster dogs for the past eight years. Many of the dogs that come into my home are well-behaved companions that just need to find a permanent home. Other dogs, well, let's just say that they are not meant to be left alone anywhere in the house. These dogs suffer from separation anxiety and begin acting out the minute that I leave their sight. These are the dogs that I take to a day care center anytime I have to leave my house. If you have a dog that doesn't do well on his own, this blog will give you several tips for making him more comfortable and eventually put a stop to the behavior.
