If you're going to be away from home for a while and need to board your dog, you might be wondering how to prepare for dog boarding. Our Ocala veterinarians offer some advice on how to prepare your dog for boarding and what to expect when you return 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 its policies, procedures, and services. For example, what kind of food do they feed the dogs, what items can you bring from home (toys, blankets, etc.), what their emergency protocols 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 criteria for maintenance, all 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.
Check out the facility well ahead of time.
Kennels that contain a large number of pets can soon become unkempt. While it is impossible to keep a boarding facility completely hygienic, a high-quality boarding facility will appear and smell clean. So, before you reserve your dog's stay, go to the kennel and make sure it's well-kept and tidy.
Keep your own emotions in check when you drop off your dog.
Dogs are experts at reading their pet parents' emotions. Your dog will be able to tell if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying your final goodbyes. 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 at 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.
When it comes to choosing a kennel for your dog, we believe that trusting your instincts is a great place to start. If you don't feel at ease in one location, try another. If they have a policy that you don't agree with, look around at different kennels until you find one that you completely trust.
Boarding Your Dog at Paddock Park Animal Care Center
We offer high-quality overnight boarding services for dogs and cats in Ocala.
While you are away, we can provide your animal companion with a warm and comfortable home away from home. Medical boarding, classic and upgraded kennels to meet the unique needs of individual dogs and cats, playtime with staff, daily walks, and more are among the services we provide.
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.
