Leaving your furry friend in a boarding facility can be a stressful experience, both for you and your dog. However, with the right preparation, you can ensure your dog has a comfortable and enjoyable stay while you’re away. Here are some top tips to help you and your dog get ready for a boarding stay at our White Bear Lake facility.
1. Tour the Facility in Advance
Before booking a stay, take the time to tour our boarding facility. Familiarize yourself with our environment, meet the staff, and ask any questions you may have. This will give you peace of mind and help your dog feel more comfortable in a new setting.
2. Update Vaccinations and Health Records
Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date. Boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations to prevent the spread of diseases. Common required vaccinations include rabies, distemper, and Bordetella (kennel cough). It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your dog’s health records on hand.
3. Pack Your Dog’s Essentials
Packing the right items can help your dog feel at home. Here’s a checklist of essentials to pack:
- Food and Treats: Bring enough food for the entire stay, plus a little extra. Include any special treats your dog loves.
- Medication: If your dog is on any medication, ensure you bring enough for the duration of the stay, along with clear instructions for administration.
- Comfort Items: Pack your dog’s favorite blanket, toys, or a piece of your clothing. These familiar items can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.
- Leash and Collar: Bring a sturdy leash and collar with an ID tag that includes your contact information.
4. Maintain a Regular Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Try to keep your dog’s feeding, walking, and sleeping schedules as consistent as possible leading up to their stay. This will help minimize stress and make the transition to boarding smoother.
5. Exercise Before Drop-Off
A well-exercised dog is a happy dog. Take your dog for a long walk or play a vigorous game of fetch before bringing them to the boarding facility. This will help burn off excess energy and reduce anxiety.
6. Familiarize Your Dog with the Facility
If possible, bring your dog for a short visit to the boarding facility before their stay. Let them sniff around, meet the staff, and get a feel for the environment. This will make the actual drop-off less overwhelming.
7. Prepare for Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is common in dogs, but there are ways to ease it. Practice short separations at home by leaving your dog alone for gradually increasing periods. Use positive reinforcement to reward calm behavior. During the boarding stay, our staff will provide extra attention and care to help your dog feel secure.
8. Communicate with the Boarding Facility
Provide the boarding facility with detailed information about your dog’s habits, preferences, and any special needs. This includes feeding schedules, medication instructions, and any behavioral quirks. The more we know about your dog, the better we can cater to their needs.
9. Stay Positive and Calm
Dogs are highly sensitive to their owners’ emotions. If you stay calm and positive during drop-off, your dog is more likely to feel at ease. Avoid long, emotional goodbyes; instead, make the drop-off quick and cheerful.
10. Plan for Post-Stay Care
After picking up your dog, give them time to readjust to being home. They might be tired from the excitement of their stay, so allow them to rest and return to their normal routine gradually. Provide extra cuddles and attention to reassure them that everything is back to normal.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can help ensure your dog’s boarding experience is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. At our White Bear Lake facility, we’re committed to providing a safe and fun environment for your furry friend. If you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming your dog and providing them with a wonderful stay!
For more tips and information, visit our website and check out our blog. Your dog’s comfort and happiness are our top priorities!