Dog Boarding for Anxious Dogs: Preparing for a Stress-Free Stay

If you're considering dog boarding for your anxious pup, it's essential to take a few extra steps to ensure their stay is stress-free. Research has shown that up to 20% of dogs experience anxiety when left alone.

To start, it's crucial to identify the root cause of your dog's anxiety. This could be separation anxiety, noise phobias, or even past trauma. Understanding the underlying issue will help you find the right boarding solution.

For anxious dogs, a quiet and private room is often the best option. This can help reduce noise and distractions, allowing your dog to feel more secure. Many dog boarding facilities offer private suites that cater specifically to anxious dogs.

By taking the time to research and prepare, you can help your anxious dog feel more comfortable and relaxed during their stay.

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Selecting a pet-friendly boarding facility is crucial for a stress-free experience for your anxious dog. You want to find a facility that specializes in handling nervous dogs with care and expertise.

Researching boarding facilities will help you find one that provides a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for your pet. Take the time to find a reputable and trusted facility that meets your pet's needs and offers you the required services.

It's essential to review your dog's crate training before boarding them. Crate training can calm a dog with separation anxiety, and it's also necessary if you're planning to board your dog at a kennel or similar facility.

Visiting the boarding facility beforehand can help reduce your pet's anxiety and make them feel more comfortable when they stay there. Take your pet for a tour of the boarding facility before the actual stay to allow them to explore the environment and get used to the sounds.

Here are some things to consider when selecting a boarding facility:

For dogs with anxiety, kennels can be a challenging environment due to the noise and activity. Changes to their diet or routine, unfamiliar dogs and people, and lots of noise can trigger or worsen separation anxiety.

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Some kennels may not be suitable for anxious dogs, but Cavalier Kennels in Front Royal is an exception. They offer private suites with televisions and windows, and dogs get to go outside four times a day. Pender Pet Retreat is another option, but their private rooms are pricey.

In-home boarding might be a better choice for anxious dogs, as it allows them to stick to their usual routine. However, it's essential to communicate with the boarder about your dog's anxiety and needs.

If your dog has separation anxiety, kennels might not be the best choice. Changes to their diet or daily routine, lots of noise and activity, and the presence of unfamiliar dogs and people can trigger or worsen their anxiety.

Cavalier Kennels in Front Royal is a great option for anxious dogs. They have private suites with TVs and windows, and dogs get to go outside four times a day. The owner, Amy, is great and the cost is only $40 a day.

In-home boarding can also be a good option. Pender Pet Retreat has private rooms, but they're pricey at over $100 a night. However, they do offer plenty of outdoor time for dogs.

Some pet resorts offer luxury boarding options, including 24/7 video monitoring, private rooms with flat-screen TVs, and even doggy spas. These premium options come at a premium price, ranging from $150 to $250 per night.

Here are some options for boarding anxious dogs:

Remember, it's essential to find a boarding facility that specializes in handling anxious or shy dogs. Take the time to research and find a reputable facility that meets your pet's needs.

If you have a dog with special behavioral issues, Boot Camp is a personalized solution that offers intensive training while boarding. This program is perfect for busy owners who can't make it to regular training sessions.

For dogs that require extra attention, Boot Camp provides a safe and controlled environment for them to learn and grow.

To ensure a positive boarding experience for your anxious dog, it's essential to ask the right questions. Asking questions is an important part of the vetting process, and it's a good idea to spend some time brainstorming relevant questions for your dog's needs.

Here are a few questions to get you started:

Your boarder will likely have some questions for you too, such as which behaviors your dog exhibits when anxious (aggression, destructive chewing, etc.), how you soothe your dog when they're anxious, and how you can be contacted in case of an emergency or problem.

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If you're considering boarding your dog, it's essential to understand their behavior and temperament. Every dog is different, and a proper assessment can help you make the best decision for their needs.

At a reputable boarding facility, you can expect them to take notes on your dog's behavior, temperament, and needs. This information will help them develop a plan tailored to your dog's unique requirements.

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A trial period or special evaluation can be recommended to determine what makes your dog tick. This may involve a day with a trainer or a brief stay at the facility.

A trial stay can be a great option if your dog has severe anxiety. This brief one- or two-night stay allows your dog to become familiar with the boarding facility and its staff, reducing stress associated with a longer boarding stay.

By taking the time to assess your dog's behavior and temperament, you'll be able to find the best boarding solution for them.

If you're planning to leave your nervous dog behind, don't worry - I've got you covered. First, make sure to pack familiar items like toys, blankets, and food bowls to help your pet feel more at home. These comfort items can be a big help in reducing stress and anxiety.

It's also essential to pack your pet's usual food, treats, and any necessary medications. This will help prevent digestive issues and maintain their routine. Clearly label your pet's items with their name and instructions for the boarding staff.

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Before choosing a boarding facility, ask questions like: Do they have experience working with dogs with separation anxiety? Can they follow your dog's daily routine? Are they able to provide exercise options for your dog? These are all crucial questions to ask.

To ensure a smooth good-bye, stay calm and positive when leaving your dog at the boarding facility. Reassure your furry friend with a gentle tone of voice and comforting body language. Keep goodbyes concise, as extended farewells can increase your dog's anxiety.

Consider a trial period if your dog has severe anxiety. This brief one- or two-night stay allows your dog to become familiar with the boarding facility and its staff, ultimately reducing the stress associated with a longer boarding stay.

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind: