If you're planning to be away from home, and need to board your dog, you may be wondering how you should prepare for dog boarding. Below, our Liberty Lake vets provide some pointers on how to prepare your dog for boarding and what to expect when you get home.
What You Need to Know About Boarding Your Dog
Here are some things you should know and take into consideration before choosing a boarding facility (kennel) for your dog:
Understand the boarding facility's rules and policies.
Before boarding your dog at a new facility, inquire about their policies, procedures, and services. For instance, what kind of food do they feed the dogs, what items can you bring from home (toys, blankets, etc.), what their emergency procedures are, and if they can administer your dog's medication?
Asking about the policies, procedures, and services the facilities offer can help you determine the best home away from home for your dog.
Ensure that your dog's vaccinations are up to date.
Although each dog boarding kennel has its own set of maintenance requirements, all reputable boarding facilities require that your dog's vaccinations be current. Because many common dog illnesses and diseases can spread quickly in kennel settings, they will require proof that your dog has received all of the required immunizations. This protects your dog and the other dogs at the facility. In advance, inquire with the kennel about the immunizations required for your puppy.
Check out the facility well ahead of time.
Kennels that house a large number of pets can quickly become unkempt. While it is impossible to keep a boarding facility completely sterile, a high-quality boarding facility will look and smell clean. So, before booking your dog's stay, make sure the kennel is kept organized and clean.
Keep your own emotions in check when you drop off your dog.
Dogs are experts at reading their pet parents' emotions. Your dog can tell if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying goodbye. This will be reflected in your dog's mood and behavior, making it more difficult for them to relax once you leave. Keep things simple, short, and positive to ease the transition.
Your dog may exhibit different behaviors when they first come home.
It's critical to understand that your dog may act strangely in the first few days after returning from the kennel. Your dog may be clingy, lethargic, or suffering from diarrhea. They may even consume more food or drink than usual. This, however, is a normal reaction to your dog's excitement about returning home. However, if things do not improve after a few days, contact your veterinarian.
Trust your gut when looking for the best place to board your dog.
We believe that trusting your instincts is a good place to start when looking for a kennel for your dog. If you don't feel at ease in one location, try another. If you don't agree with their policy, look around at other kennels until you find one you completely trust.
Boarding Your Dog at Legacy Animal Medical Center
We offer high-quality overnight boarding services for dogs and cats in Liberty Lake.
We can provide your animal companion with a welcoming and comfortable home away from home while you are away. Some of the services we offer include medical boarding, classic and upgraded kennels to meet the unique needs of individual dogs and cats, playtime with staff, daily walks, and more!
Learn More About Dog Boarding at Legacy Animal Medical Center
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 or boarding needs, please make an appointment with your vet.
