Blog How to Avoid Separation Anxiety When Boarding Your Pup

If you plan to be out of town for a while on vacation, consider a boarding facility for your dog while away. The option gives you peace of mind, knowing your dog is in good hands. Your dog’s anxiety may cause second thoughts.

The separation anxiety may make you feel you need to limit travel. Separation anxiety is a common condition in dogs. It happens to breeds of all kinds and at any age. Separation can cause anxious dogs to panic and develop severe distress.

There is a common thread that triggers separation anxiety. Factors include:

• Born with an anxious nature
• Taken away from the mother too soon
• A dramatic life event, like being left in a shelter
• Lack of exercise or boredom
• Change in routine

Dogs suffering from separation anxiety show signs of stress the entire time you are apart from them. They pace and whine as you get ready to leave. Left alone, anxious dogs may exhibit these behaviors or symptoms.

• Attempting to escape a room or crate
• Destructive behavior
• Excessive whining, barking, and salivating
• Scratching floors, doors, and walls

Of course, it is essential to distinguish between typical dog shenanigans and anxious behavior. All puppies have accidents and chew on things, especially when they are potty training and young. Dogs usually do not do these things when you are around.

Talk to a vet to ensure the behavior is not due to hormone problems, infections, or other health problems. Anxiety manifests as negative behavior. A dog with separation anxiety exhibits the behavior when left alone. Anxious dogs follow a family member from room to room and are upset when separated.

With boarding professionals like Very Important Paws, you can enjoy your travel while your dog receives training to counter their anxiety. You can take a vacation without the worry of your pooch being miserable.

Is Boarding Bad for Dogs with Separation Anxiety?

Dogs are social beings. They feel uncomfortable when no one is around for an extended period. Leaving dogs alone is alright if proper preparations are made. Work on independence training to gradually learn to accept being alone and build confidence. Socialization from a young age lessens anxiety later on.

When your dog goes from spending a large portion of the day with you to being away from you for a significant time, it may feel panicky, confused, and upset. The dog may also develop various undesirable behaviors.

How to Train a Dog with Separation Anxiety

Despite being aware of social rules and being house-trained, dogs may get nervous when they realize you are leaving. They may start to bite and chew things, defecate or urinate where they are not supposed to, make excessive noise, or try to escape. Dogs may also get nervous when they see signs they are about to leave, such as picking up keys or putting on shoes.

Do those things without leaving. Pick up keys, sit at a table, or wear shoes and watch TV. Repeat the actions many times during the day. When the dog feels less anxious, it slowly starts to disappear.

Go to the other side of the door, ask the dog to stay, close the door, wait a few seconds, and then reappear. Slowly increase the time you are gone. Pick up the keys or put on your shoes. Ask the dog to stay when you go into another room.

As the dog gets used to the ‘stay game,’ the time you are gone increases. Next, use an outside door other than the one you usually go out of. Ensure the dog is relaxed before leaving. Do not rush the process.

Give the dog a treat when you build up to ten seconds apart. The treat should only be used as a reward for this exercise. Remain calm when leaving and returning. Gradually build up time until you go for a few minutes. Slowly, stay away for more extended periods.

Although you try to avoid leaving the dog for a prolonged period, there are occasions when you have no choice but to leave it with someone to take care of it temporarily. A boarding facility like Very Important Paws is an excellent option.

We are designed to provide suitable accommodations for your dog while being staffed by experienced and trained professionals. Boarding a dog can be nerve-wracking, especially if your dog suffers from separation anxiety. We are experienced with other dogs having separation issues and help them settle.

How to Calm Separation Anxiety in Dogs

While separation anxiety training helps, there are tips for other ways to ease a dog’s anxiety when it is time to board it. Familiarity and a bit of home make a significant difference for a dog staying at a boarding facility, particularly for the first time.

A small reminder of playtime with you offers reassurance for the dog’s anxiety. Prepare the dog for an extended stay by giving it something, such as a stuffed animal, squeaky toys, or other small reminders, to snuggle with as it sleeps.

Ease the Dog into Being Away from You

Dogs are observant. They notice you are preparing for a trip. It is the ideal time to get them used to being away from you. A few ways to get them comfortable at a distance include the following.

• Keeping them in a separate room in your home while sleeping
• Doing a trial run

Spending nights away from each other may be difficult if you and your dog sleep in the same bed. To make the transition easier, put a dog bed in your kitchen, living room, or other cozy area so they become accustomed to not sleeping with you. The sooner you start, the easier it is for you and your dog to separate.

The best way to know how the dog will react is to do a trial run. Contact a family member or friends to see if they will watch your dog for a day. Bring the dog’s favorite toys, bed, and food, and let them get used to being around others.

You do not want to ease the dog into a situation when it is time to drop it off. When you say ‘goodbye,’ do not prolong the departure. Prolonging the separation from the dog makes it more challenging for your dog and you. Give the puppy a snuggle and their favorite toys, and go.

Anxiety Medication

A trip to the veterinarian’s office can make travel plans easier. If easing them into being apart does not work, anxiety medication may benefit the dog’s actions and attitude when they notice you have left. Make the appointment beforehand to allow time to ease the dog into the medication.

If you notice any undesirable behaviors, the vet may recommend selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or antidepressants to reduce common symptoms and calm their nerves.

Do Puppies Grow out of Separation Anxiety?

For a boarding facility that prioritizes your dog, contact Very Important Paws. We ensure your dog is comfortable and receives positive socialization sessions with people and other dogs. Pets are comfortable in recognizable surroundings.

We understand it is difficult for dogs to be separated from their owners. Our staff takes extra care of dogs suffering from separation anxiety. We create a relaxing atmosphere with around-the-clock care. The goal is to help your dog feel like they are on vacation.

Dogs of any breed or size enjoy the activities we provide, which keep them busy and their minds fascinated. Most dogs adapt well to surroundings where they are exercised, comfortable, and safe. Even dogs that seem upset when you leave become excited when they enter our dog hotel.

We offer a dog hotel rather than a kennel. It is a nice place to stay. After settling in, a walk around the facility provides the sights and smells of many points of interest for dogs. Dogs are not as homesick when they have friends to hang out with and get fresh air. Socialization with other dogs helps. A dog that is entertained is less likely to get anxious or stressed.

Prepare them by visiting our incredible boarding facility. Take the puppy on a tour or board it for a single overnight visit before your trip. Using the same facility for doggie daycare, grooming, and boarding creates familiarity. Very Important Paws offers all of these services. With enough practice and repeated visits, the dog learns you will return.

What to Bring

Pack a bag that includes medication, treats, and regular food. Send a few balls and favorite toys. Chew toys offer comfort and keep the dog busy. Puppies love the scent of their owners. Toss in something that smells like you, such as a pillowcase or shirt.

Conclusion

Make sure your dog gets lots of exercise. A tired, happy pet is less stressed when you leave. Challenge the dog’s mind. Work their mind and body. Play fetch and training games. It keeps them busy and makes them too tired to be anxious while you are gone. If these tips do not help, see a certified animal behaviorist or vet.

Contact Very Important Paws today in Palm Beach for all your dog boarding, hotel, daycare, grooming, and training needs.