Worried About Boarding My Dog? Answers to Your Top Questions

Boarding your dog can be a stressful experience, not just for you, but for your furry friend as well. Research has shown that dogs can exhibit anxiety and stress when left in a boarding facility.

The good news is that many boarding facilities now offer special amenities to help reduce your dog's stress levels. For example, some facilities provide a private room for your dog to relax in, complete with a comfortable bed and calming music.

The cost of boarding your dog can vary greatly depending on the facility and the services they offer. On average, dog owners can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 per day for boarding services.

If you're worried about the quality of care your dog will receive while you're away, consider asking the boarding facility about their staff-to-dog ratio. A lower ratio can ensure that your dog receives more individualized attention and care.

If you're considering boarding your dog, you have several options to choose from, including home boarding, where your dog stays in a private home with a pet sitter, and kennel boarding, where your dog stays in a shared facility with other dogs.

Additional reading: Dog Boarding at Home

Home boarding can be a great option for anxious dogs, as they'll have one-on-one attention and a quieter environment.

Kennel boarding is often less expensive than home boarding, but it may not be as comfortable for dogs who prefer more space and attention.

Some boarding facilities are specifically designed for dogs with separation anxiety or other special needs.

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You can board a dog with health conditions or behavioral concerns, but it's essential to discuss these matters with the staff upfront.

There are many boarding services that are well-equipped to accommodate a dog's behavioral or health considerations.

Be transparent about issues regarding separation anxiety, resource-guarding, or illnesses requiring close monitoring.

You should research a particular service and ask about their experience with dogs with similar needs.

Discussing your dog's specific needs with the staff will help you find a suitable boarding service.

Some boarding services may have special facilities or staff trained to handle dogs with behavioral concerns.

By being open and honest about your dog's needs, you can find a boarding service that provides a safe and comfortable environment.

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At drop-off time, it's essential to remain calm and composed, as your dog will pick up on your emotions.

You should avoid making a big fuss or lingering too long, as this can create unnecessary stress for your dog.

To make the transition smoother, deliver your pet with enthusiasm and walk away, rather than prolonging the goodbye.

This approach will help prevent passing on your anxiety to your dog and trigger separation anxiety.

If you're worried about boarding your dog, it's essential to know what to look for in a kennel. Hollybank Boarding Kennels, for example, prides itself on creating a safe and loving environment for dogs to enjoy while their owners are away.

Their kennels are heated, clean, comfortable, and spacious, allowing dogs to feel relaxed and settled during their stay. They also offer individual exercise and playtime, as well as a variety of dog food brands to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.

For another approach, see: Dog Boarding Kennels Prices

A thriving boarding kennel is essentially a summer camp for dogs, with frequent playtimes, face-to-face contact with staff, and regular interactions with other dogs. This is crucial for your dog's social and emotional well-being.

Some kennels offer detailed daily itineraries, including training exercises, playtime with hand-picked groups of dogs, and water-based activities. For example, many kennels have inflatable swimming pools, hoses, and sprinklers to cool off dogs on hot days.

It's also essential to ask about a kennel's immunization requirements. Many states require kennels to have proof of dogs' vaccination records to prevent outbreaks of life-threatening communicable diseases.

You should also ask about the kennel's accommodation for dogs with health conditions. For instance, a dog with arthritis may need frequent playtime breaks and daily joint supplements at mealtimes.

To ensure your dog's overall health, ask about the kennel's sanitation practices, such as regularly cleaning dogs' crates, spraying down communal play areas, and quarantining dogs with concerning symptoms.

Here's a list of questions to ask a kennel:

Before you drop off your dog, the facility will likely explain what to bring. It's a good idea to bring your dog's favorite toy, as it can provide comfort in their absence.

You may also want to bring your dog's food, as the facility may not be able to provide the same brand or type. A piece of clothing with your scent can also help your dog feel more at ease.

If your dog is used to sleeping in a bed, consider bringing that too.

For another approach, see: What to Bring When You Board Your Dog?

Make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date. This is crucial for their health and safety, as it minimizes the risk of communal diseases such as kennel cough.

Vaccinations are legally required by the state to be maintained, and facilities will not let dogs play if their vaccinations are expired. Most facilities will require your vet to email the vaccine records to them.

You should know when your dog's vaccines are expiring and update them accordingly. This way, you can ensure a smooth and healthy boarding experience for your furry friend.

As you prepare to drop off your dog at the boarding facility, think about what comforts you can bring to make their stay more enjoyable. You can leave familiar items like blankets or beds with your dog to provide a sense of security and relaxation.

Dogs find comfort in familiar smells and items, so consider packing a favorite toy or piece of clothing with your scent. This can help ease separation anxiety and make the boarding facility feel more like home.

You can also bring your dog's favorite food, as well as a piece of clothing with your scent, to provide a sense of familiarity. This can be especially helpful if your dog is prone to separation anxiety.

Here are some items you can consider bringing to make your dog's stay more comfortable:

Some boarding facilities may also sell pet merchandise, such as snuggle toys and calming pheromone spray, that can help soothe your dog during their stay. Be sure to ask about these items when you drop off your dog.

It's essential to be open and honest about your dog's behavior and needs when boarding them.

If your dog is reactive on-leash, it's crucial to inform the facility so they can take necessary precautions.

Don't assume staff will know about minor health issues, such as seizures, so be sure to share this information.

Your dog's personality is just as important as their physical needs, so let the facility know if they're cuddlers or prefer their own space.

Sharing relevant information about your dog will help ensure they receive the best possible care while you're away.

Here's an interesting read: Why Is My Dog so Tired after Boarding?

Staying organized is key to a smooth boarding experience for both you and your furry friends. Newly boarded dogs are already confused enough, so a disorganized and hectic boarding experience can make things even worse.

Dedicated boarding software can help streamline the dog boarding process by managing reservations, appointments, and kennel capacity. This ensures that you're always aware of the number of dogs in your care and can plan accordingly.

Some pet-care software even comes with built-in employee management systems to guarantee that each dog receives the attention it needs. This includes checklists, to-do reminders, and mobile notifications to keep everything on track.

These features can help prevent any pup from going without the attention it deserves. By staying organized, you can provide a more comfortable and secure environment for your canine clients.

Acclimating your child to daycare is crucial for a smooth transition. It's essential to introduce them to the daycare environment before the actual boarding starts.

Dropping your child off for daycare for the first time can be stressful for them. Bringing them to daycare a few times before boarding helps them become better acquainted with the staff and the regular daycare dogs.

This process also helps your child understand the daily routine, including the feeding schedule. This is critical for most children, and it's essential to establish a routine that they can rely on.

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By acclimating your child to daycare, you're giving them a sense of security and familiarity. This will make the actual boarding experience much less stressful for both you and your child.

Here are some benefits of acclimating your child to daycare: