If you have a nervous dog, the thought of leaving them at a boarding facility while you’re away can be daunting. How will they handle the new environment? Will they be anxious, or worse, act out in distress? Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure your dog’s boarding experience is as stress-free as possible. Here’s a guide to help you and your pet navigate this transition with ease.
1. Start with a Familiar Facility
Choosing a boarding facility that your dog is familiar with can make a significant difference. If possible, select a location that they’ve visited before, even if it was just for a grooming appointment or a brief visit. If you’re in Ontario, dog boarding in Brampton is an option where you can find several facilities that offer trial visits to help your dog acclimate.
2. Schedule a Trial Run
Before you leave for an extended period, consider scheduling a trial run for your dog. This could be a day-long stay or even an overnight visit to acclimate them to the boarding environment. This experience allows your dog to familiarize themselves with the facility, the staff, and the routine.
3. Bring Comfort Items from Home
Dogs often find comfort in familiar objects. Bring along your dog’s favorite blanket, toy, or bed to their boarding stay. The familiar scent will help calm their nerves and provide a sense of security. Additionally, consider bringing a piece of your clothing, like a t-shirt, which carries your scent, to further comfort your pet.
4. Choose a Facility with Individualized Care
Some dogs are more anxious when they are in large groups. If your dog is one of them, choose a boarding facility that offers individualized care or smaller playgroups. Look for a place that provides personalized attention and has trained staff who understand canine behavior and can recognize signs of stress or anxiety.
5. Maintain a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. When boarding your pet, provide the facility with a detailed description of your dog’s daily schedule, including feeding times, walks, and playtime. Ask the staff to maintain this routine as closely as possible. A consistent routine can help reduce stress and make the experience feel more familiar.
6. Communicate with the Staff
Make sure to communicate any specific needs or quirks your dog has to the boarding staff. Whether it’s a fear of thunderstorms, anxiety around other dogs, or specific dietary requirements, the more information you provide, the better the staff can cater to your dog’s needs. Dog boarding facilities like Snuggles and Cuddles pride themselves on their personalized approach, so don’t hesitate to share all the details about your dog’s habits and preferences.
7. Keep Goodbyes Short and Sweet
When dropping off your dog, keep your goodbyes brief and positive. Long, emotional farewells can increase your dog’s anxiety and make them feel like something is wrong. Instead, keep the mood light, offer a quick pat, and reassure them that you’ll be back soon.
8. Stay in Touch During Your Trip
Many boarding facilities offer updates via email or text, and some even have webcams so you can check in on your pet. Use these tools to stay connected and ease your own concerns. If you’re using a dog daycare center in Brampton, be sure to ask about their communication policies. This can help you stay informed about your pet’s well-being while you’re away.
9. Trust the Process
While it’s natural to worry about your nervous dog, trust that the boarding staff is experienced and equipped to handle a variety of personalities and temperaments. Trusting the process will help you remain calm, which in turn, can have a calming effect on your pet.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your nervous dog has a positive boarding experience. With a little planning and preparation, you’ll both be ready for a stress-free separation.
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