Got a big vacation planned? An extended business trip? Are you nervous about leaving your best friend at a new dog boarding kennel ? Even if you are completely confident in the kennel you have chosen, you may still be a little worried about your dog's stress level while he is away from you. There are several steps you can take to help reduce your dog's anxiety while staying at a dog boarding kennel. When you follow these steps you can leave for your trip confident that your dog will have the best time possible while you're gone!
1. Make sure she has something that smells like home. Pack her bed or favorite stuffed toy, or even one of your t-shirts (after you have worn it). The familiar scent of home will give her comfort when away from home.
2. Give him a safe chew toy (try one of my favorites, a Kong or Nylabone). Chewing releases neurotransmitters in dog's brains which helps them relax. Even if your dog has outgrown chew toys he might enjoy one when you are away.
3. Maintain your dog's regular diet. Stress will create gastro-intestinal issues, and changing her food will only compound the problem! Make sure ahead of time that the kennel you have chosen will feed your dog her own food. If the kennel staff refuses, consider finding another kennel.
4. Keep yourself relaxed and calm. Our dogs are especially sensitive to our emotions - it's what makes them such perfect friends! Set a good example for him to follow. Give yourself plenty of time the day of drop off so that you are not feeling rushed. Say a quick, up-beat goodbye, and leave. You have chosen a wonderful kennel, allow yourself to relax. You may even consider having a friend or family member drop you dog off if you think you might not be able to remain un-emotional.
A reputable dog boarding kennel will take additional steps to help reduce your dog's anxiety. Whether or not you have already chosen a dog boarding kennel, there are some key questions you should ask. Don't be bashful about asking questions, a reputable kennel will want to give you enough information to make you feel confident in their services. The following questions are just a few that you can ask specifically related to stress reduction.
1. Do they maintain a consistent schedule for playtime and feeding? Dogs are comforted by routine, they are creatures of habit.
2. Is each kennel separated by a solid wall? Your dog will feel safe and secure in his kennel if it feels like it's his own little doggie den.
3. Do dogs play in small play in small playgroups? More than eight dogs to a group are too many and will cause your dog unnecessary stress.
4. How often will your dog get outside to play? Two times is the minimum, four or more is ideal. If your dog is expected to be outside all day make sure she will be given structured down time. Down time is just as important as play time for dogs.
Remember that regardless of the dog boarding kennel you choose, and how well behaved and outgoing your dog is, he will experience a certain level of stress. You can relax knowing that you have chosen the best dog boarding kennel possible for your pet and that you have provided him with all the tools he needs to remain relaxed and have a great time!
1. Make sure she has something that smells like home. Pack her bed or favorite stuffed toy, or even one of your t-shirts (after you have worn it). The familiar scent of home will give her comfort when away from home.
2. Give him a safe chew toy (try one of my favorites, a Kong or Nylabone). Chewing releases neurotransmitters in dog's brains which helps them relax. Even if your dog has outgrown chew toys he might enjoy one when you are away.
3. Maintain your dog's regular diet. Stress will create gastro-intestinal issues, and changing her food will only compound the problem! Make sure ahead of time that the kennel you have chosen will feed your dog her own food. If the kennel staff refuses, consider finding another kennel.
4. Keep yourself relaxed and calm. Our dogs are especially sensitive to our emotions - it's what makes them such perfect friends! Set a good example for him to follow. Give yourself plenty of time the day of drop off so that you are not feeling rushed. Say a quick, up-beat goodbye, and leave. You have chosen a wonderful kennel, allow yourself to relax. You may even consider having a friend or family member drop you dog off if you think you might not be able to remain un-emotional.
A reputable dog boarding kennel will take additional steps to help reduce your dog's anxiety. Whether or not you have already chosen a dog boarding kennel, there are some key questions you should ask. Don't be bashful about asking questions, a reputable kennel will want to give you enough information to make you feel confident in their services. The following questions are just a few that you can ask specifically related to stress reduction.
1. Do they maintain a consistent schedule for playtime and feeding? Dogs are comforted by routine, they are creatures of habit.
2. Is each kennel separated by a solid wall? Your dog will feel safe and secure in his kennel if it feels like it's his own little doggie den.
3. Do dogs play in small play in small playgroups? More than eight dogs to a group are too many and will cause your dog unnecessary stress.
4. How often will your dog get outside to play? Two times is the minimum, four or more is ideal. If your dog is expected to be outside all day make sure she will be given structured down time. Down time is just as important as play time for dogs.
Remember that regardless of the dog boarding kennel you choose, and how well behaved and outgoing your dog is, he will experience a certain level of stress. You can relax knowing that you have chosen the best dog boarding kennel possible for your pet and that you have provided him with all the tools he needs to remain relaxed and have a great time!
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