If you need to board your dog for the first time, you might be overwhelmed at what to do. Today's blog shares some tips from our Laguna Woods vets to help you make an informed choice about the right dog boarding facility for your canine companion.
What Should I Know About Boarding My Dog?
Here are some things you should take into consideration before choosing a boarding facility (kennel) for your dog:
Familiarize yourself with the boarding facility's rules and policies.
Beforeboarding your dog at a new facility be sure to speak to staff about their rules, regulations, and what they offer. For example, what type of food do they feed the dogs, what items can you bring from home (toys, blankets, etc.), what are their emergency procedures, or if they can administer your dog's medicine?
Asking about the policies, procedures, and services the facilities offer can help you determine the best home away from home for your dog.
Make sure that your dog's vaccinations are up to date.
Although every individual dog boarding kennel has its own standards in a number of way, any reputable boarding facilities have one thing in common– your dog's vaccinations must be up to date. They will require proof that your dog has received all of the required immunizations because many common dog illnesses and diseases can spread quickly in kennel settings. This helps keep your pooch and the other dogs at the facility safe. Ask the kennel in advance which immunizations they require your pup to have.
Visit the facility well ahead of time.
Boarding facilities that house a lot of pets can get messy quickly. While a boarding facility can't be kept fully sterile, a high-quality boarding facility will still look and smell clean. So, before booking your dog's stay visit the kennel and make sure it's kept organized and clean.
Stay calm and cheerful when you drop off your dog.
Dogs are well-attuned to reading human emotions. Your pooch will be able to tell if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying goodbye. Your dog's mood and behavior will reflect this, making it harder for them to relax once you leave. To make the drop-off less emotionally fraught keep things simple, short, and positive.
Your dog might act a little differently when they first come home.
The first few days after your dog's return home may have them behaving a little differently. Your pup might be clingy, low-energy, or have an upset tummy (e.g. diarrhea). They may even eat or drink more than usual. However, this is a normal response to your dog's excitement about coming home. But, if things don't settle down after a few days, contact your vet.
Trust your instincts when choosing where to board your dog.
When it comes to selecting the best kennel for your dog, we believe in trusting your instincts. If you don't feel comfortable with a place, look for another. If they have a policy you don't like, look around at different kennels until you find one that you can trust completely.
Boarding Your Dog at Laguna Hills Animal Hospital
Our clinic offers high-quality overnight boarding services for cats and dogs in Laguna Woods. Our facilities are available to your pet with the goal of helping them feel relaxed and at home, even outside their family household. Some of the services we offer include medical boarding, temperature-controlled kennels, a separate boarding area for cats and dogs, playtime with staff, daily walks, and more!
Learn More About Dog Boarding at Laguna Hills Animal Hospital
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.