Preparing Your Dog for Dog Boarding
Are you planning to board your dog for the first time? You might have many questions and concerns about how your furry friend will handle it. Where will they stay? Will they be scared or anxious? What can you do to ensure everything goes smoothly?
This guide will help you prepare your dog for their stay at a kennel or with a pet sitter. We’ll cover vaccination rules, packing tips for comfort, training techniques, and health checks. Plus, we’ll introduce WoofConnect, an alternative boarding option.
Understanding Vaccination Rules for Boarding Dogs
Most kennels and pet sitters require proof that your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations. This keeps all dogs safe and healthy.
Typical required vaccinations include:
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Parvovirus
- Bordetella
Puppies may need additional vaccines depending on their age. Check these requirements early, so you have time to visit the vet if needed.
Some facilities may also ask for proof of influenza vaccines and flea/tick treatments. Knowing these policies in advance ensures you meet all health standards.
Packing Items to Help Your Dog Feel at Home
You want your dog to feel as comfortable as possible while you’re away. While facilities provide basics like food and housing, familiar items from home can help your dog settle in.
Consider packing:
- Their regular food
- Favorite toys and treats
- A worn, unwashed t-shirt or blanket with your scent
- Calming anti-anxiety chews or diffusers
Avoid packing valuable items that could get damaged. Call the facility to check what personal belongings are allowed.
Training Techniques to Prep for Boarding Stays
A few weeks before boarding, start training your dog to get used to being away from you. This helps ease the transition when their stay begins.
Helpful techniques include:
- Taking short trips away from home and gradually increasing the time
- Having friends or family do mock overnight stays
- Practicing leaving your dog alone at home
- Rewarding your dog with treats when you return
- Visiting the facility for tours and meet-and-greets
When the time comes, avoid emotional goodbyes. Keep things light and positive, reinforcing that boarding is an adventure.
Managing Any Separation Anxiety
Most dogs feel restless at first in a new place. However, signs like excessive whining, pacing, destruction, bathroom issues, or loss of appetite may indicate anxiety.
If your dog has severe separation anxiety, talk to your vet about options like anti-anxiety medication or specialized training. Facilities that offer webcam check-ins or allow familiar scents, toys, and bedding can also help.
Be honest with pet sitters or staff about your dog’s needs. This way, they can provide tailored care and keep you updated.
Getting Health Checks Before Your Dog’s Stay
Just as you’d get a checkup before a trip, take your dog to the vet 1-2 weeks before boarding.
Your vet will:
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date
- Renew any prescription medications
- Verify flea/tick/heartworm prevention is current
- Note any medical issues that need special care
For first-time boarders, ask your vet for advice based on your dog’s health and personality.
Choosing Stress-Free Boarding with WoofConnect
If traditional boarding facilities overwhelm your dog, consider home boarding through the WoofConnect app.
WoofConnect offers:
- One-on-one stays with matched owners
- A warm, less stressful home environment
- Owners familiar with your dog’s breed and needs
- Flexibility with familiar items and foods from home
While it may not offer all the services of a kennel, WoofConnect reduces stress by avoiding unfamiliar places and other dogs.
Prepping Ensures Smooth Sailing
With a bit of planning, you can make your dog’s first boarding experience smooth and stress-free. Ensure they meet all health requirements, pack comforts from home, practice solo routines, communicate special care needs, and choose the right facility.
Following these tips will lead to happy pups and happy pet parents while you travel or work. Safe travels!