Today, our Greensboro vets and team provide some tips on how to prepare your dog for boarding with us at Friendly Animal Clinic and what to expect when your pet gets home.
Dog Boarding
When you are planning to be away from home it is essential to find a clean, reliable and welcoming place for your dog to stay. Once you have chosen the boarding facility that meets your dog's needs it's time to start preparing for their stay. Below are some tips to help make your dog's first boarding experience a positive one.
Check out the facility well ahead of time.
Go visit the dog boarding facility where you would like your pooch to stay. Kennels that house a lot of pets can get messy quickly. While a boarding facility can't be kept fully sterile, a high-quality boarding facility will still look and smell clean. So, before booking your dog's stay visit the kennel and make sure it's kept organized and clean.
Understand the rules and policies of the boarding facility.
Before boarding your dog at a new facility be sure to speak to staff about their rules, regulations, and what they offer. For example, what type of food do they feed the dogs, what items can you bring from home (toys, blankets, etc.), what are their emergency procedures, or if they can administer your dog's medicine?
Asking about the policies, procedures, and services the facilities offer can help you determine the best home away from home for your dog.
Be sure that your dog's vaccinations are current.
Although each dog boarding kennel has its own criteria for maintenance, all reputable boarding facilities have one thing in common, your dog's vaccinations must to be up to date. They will require proof that your dog has received all of the required immunizations because many common dog illnesses and diseases can spread quickly in kennel settings. This helps keep your pooch and the other dogs at the facility safe. Ask the kennel in advance which immunizations they require your pup to have.
Keep your own emotions in check when you drop off your dog.
Dogs are experts at reading the emotions of their pet parents. Your pooch will be able to tell if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying goodbye. Your dog's mood and behavior will reflect this, making it harder for them to relax once you leave. To make the separation easier keep things simple, short, and positive.
Your dog may act a little differently when they first come home.
It's important to understand that during the first few days after your dog comes home from the kennel, they may behave a little differently. Your pup might be clingy, lethargic, or have diarrhea. They may even eat or drink more than usual. However, this is a normal response to your dog's excitement for coming home. But, if things don't settle down after a few days, contact your vet.
Boarding Your Dog at Friendly Animal Clinic
We offer high-quality overnight boarding services for dogs and cats in Greensboro.
Our team can provide your pooch with a welcoming and comfortable home away from home while you are away. We would love to get to know you and your pet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.