Eva Davidson
If you intend on leaving your home for an extended period of time, and you are in search of someone to watch over your dog during your absence, you have likely thought about using a pet kennel service for this purpose. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for your dog's first stay at a boarding facility.
Check Over Prospects Before Your Trip
If you have time available, it is wise to take trips to a few boarding facilities in your area before you drop off your pooch at one of them for a stay. This gives you the opportunity to see exactly what the living quarters look like as well as allows you to meet staff members in advance. You will also have the chance to ask questions about your dog's stay, helping you to make preparations at home for the ordeal.
Gather Some Belongings From Your Home
Your dog will feel more at ease if it has some of its normal surrounding items with it when it stays at a boarding facility. Gather toys your dog enjoys playing with, as well as an unwashed warm blanket, shirt, or jacket that you use often. Your dog will become comforted by the scent of this item at a time you are unable to be there with your pet. In addition, bring along food that your dog enjoys eating and any medication that your dog takes regularly. These will be distributed to your dog according to your specifications.
Consider Signing Up For Extra Activities
Some kennels will provide extra services for clients to enjoy. This includes exercise regimens and free play sessions with other dogs staying at the facility. You may want your dog to be pampered with a grooming session while you are unable to keep up with the tasks necessary yourself. Dog training classes are also available to partake in at some facilities.
Make An Appointment With Your Dog's Vet
Most kennels will require that your pet is up-to-date on their immunizations before they stay at their facilities. Make an appointment with your dog's veterinarian for an assessment of your pet's health before you bring them to a boarding facility. This is not just important for your dog, but for others staying in kennels where your pet stays. If there is a health problem, your dog's vet will alert you and provide you with any treatment necessary to ensure they are healthy enough for a stay away from home.
Have you recently started a job that requires you to travel a lot? Do you have a canine companion that misses you while you are gone? Sure, you can have someone you trust stop in your home a few times each day to feed, water and walk your dog, but is that really enough attention for your buddy while you are gone? Maybe it is time for you to look into a doggy daycare and boarding facility for your dog. Learn how this type of facility improved the relationship that I have with my dog and how he has benefited from such a service.