A reliable kennel is a valuable tool for any dog owner. When you have a great pet kennel in your address book, you know that your dog will be taken care of if you suddenly need to take a trip or host a family member with a dog allergy. Dog kennels provide a safe place for dogs to stay, along with the human interaction and supervision that dogs need. Here are three things pet owners should do if they want to take advantage of pet boarding services at a kennel:
1. Get your dog up to date on their vaccines
Pets live in close proximity to each other in kennels. Many dogs enjoy the ability to spend time with other canines. However, dogs can pass on diseases if they aren't properly vaccinated. To protect the health of clients' dogs, most dog kennels require that dogs get all their vaccines before boarding. If your dog is missing some of their shots, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. Ask your vet for a copy of your dog's vaccination records so you can present them to the boarding center.
2. Give your dog basic obedience training
Basic obedience training is beneficial for dogs and their owners. Teaching your dogs to follow basic commands like sit, stay, and lie down can help you control your dog when necessary. Pet kennels accept dogs who haven't been trained, but a little training can make the experience easier for your dog and kennel workers. Dogs who can sit, lie down, and stay still when instructed are easier to handle. They can also be recalled and adequately controlled in the event of an emergency. Obedience training can relieve dogs' anxiety as well since it helps dogs understand what behaviors are expected of them in new situations.
3. Try a trial separation
Some dogs are very attached to their owners. This is a positive trait in many ways, but strong attachments can manifest as separation anxiety in dogs that are very dependent. Separation anxiety can make dogs fearful in kennels, but you can overcome your dog's attachment issues through exposure therapy. Before leaving your pet at the kennel for long periods of time, try separating for shorter lengths of time that gradually grow in duration. Trial separations can give you and your dog the confidence needed for a successful long-term stay at a boarding facility.
Share24 June 2021
Our pets are like our children — they need to be cared for when we are away. After being a stay at home mom for many years, I had to make some serious adjustments when I reentered the workforce. My children are all grown, but my dog just can't be home by himself. I had to find a day care for him to go to when I went to work. I was conflicted — how do I choose the day care that will provide him with the love, care and attention that he is used to? This blog will provide you with the same tips that I was given that helped me choose.