Many owners are nervous about leaving their dogs at a boarding establishment when they go on vacation. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to make sure your dog has the best stay-cation ever so you don’t have to worry!
DO’s
Do… bring 1 or 2 toys or “babies” for your dog. Dogs like having their special items with them to play with during the day and cuddle with at night.
Do… bring a few things from home that will make the area more comfy for your dog. A favorite blanket or your old t-shirt that smells like home and reminds dogs that they are in a safe and familiar place.
Do… bring snacks and/or treats. Daycare is a long day of play and especially when dogs are boarding over several days, they need to keep up their energy. Snacks help dogs stay active throughout the day and it also makes naptime fun!
Do… mark all of your toys, bedding, and food items with your dog’s name and last initial. Just like with kids in kindergarten, toys and other items can accidentally be swapped, so labeling ensures you’ll get yours back.
Do… book a spa appointment, if available. If your dog is staying longer than four or five days, make a spa appointment before pick-up. It really doesn’t matter how clean a facility is, five days of doggy play equals a lot of slobber.
DON’Ts
Don’t… be nervous. It’s hard, but when you are nervous your dog senses your energy and will start to feel nervous himself (even if he doesn’t know why). If you are happy and excited, your dog will be, too.
Don’t.. bring fancy bedding. Sometimes dogs dump their water, have muddy feet from walks, or have been wrestling with friends all day, which means bedding is going to get wet and stinky. Any bedding you bring should be machine washable.
Don’t… bring bowls. All facilities have their own bowls, so you can keep yours at home. One less thing to pack!
Don’t… introduce new food right before boarding. Dogs frequently get upset stomachs and diarrhea when switching foods. Plus you don’t want to risk having your dog suffer from an unexpected allergic reaction while you’re away.
Andrea Servadio is co-owner of Fitdog Sports Club in Santa Monica, California. Learn more at fitdogsportsclub.com.
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