Tips to Prepare for Your Dog's Stay in a Dog Boarding Kennel
Posted on: 4 February 2019
When it's time to leave home for a business trip or family vacation, you may not always be able to take your dog with you. Taking your pet to a dog boarding kennel is an ideal option, especially when you don't have family or friends that can care for your pet while you're away. If this is the first time your dog has stayed in a kennel, be sure you speak with someone at the kennel to discuss the services they offer and what, if any, additional fees may be required for certain services, such as bathing. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your pet's stay in a kennel.
Interacting with Other Dogs
Some dog boarding kennels allow several dogs to interact in a play yard. It is important to keep in mind that while many dogs do well in this type of environment, some dogs may be nervous or get overly excited. Dogs that tend to get overly excited or nervous may cause other dogs to react in an aggressive manner, so it is important to discuss your dog's personality and behaviors with the kennel staff. Some kennels may not accept aggressive dogs, so if your dog may be aggressive to people or other dogs, be sure to tell staff at the time you make the reservation.
Meals and Medicines
Most kennels will allow you to bring your dog's food. A change in your dog's diet can cause intestinal upset, so be sure to ask if you can bring their regular food. Also, remember to provide information about how much and how often your dog eats. If your dog is on any medications be sure to supply the kennel with enough of the medications to last the entire stay. Also be sure to provide information that includes amount and time the medications are given.
Vaccinations
The kennel will require that your dog be up-to-date on vaccinations. Most kennels will also want your dog to be current with flea and tick control, even if your dog is an inside dog. A visit to the vet before their scheduled stay in the kennel will ensure you and the kennel that your dog is healthy and will do well in this type of environment.
On check-in day, remember to bring your dog's bed and favorite toy, which will help reduce your dog's anxiety. Be sure to provide the dog boarding kennel with contact information in case of an emergency. Contact information should include your phone number as well as your veterinarian's phone number and address.
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