Blog Biggest Mistakes Pet Parents Make When Choosing a Boarding Facility
After several years of disruption due to COVID-19, more people travel and need pet boarding services. People returning to the office has also increased the need for doggie daycare. People who brought a new pet into their home during the pandemic may not know what to look for when evaluating doggie daycare or a boarding facility.
It is essential to understand that not all pets are suitable for boarding facilities or dog daycares. Some dogs may need a pet sitter, which is an excellent solution for many who want to keep their pets happy while they are away.
Pet Sitting Services
Pet sitting services turn your home into a home boarding facility. A pet sitter visits your own home for a few hours to attend to your pet. Pets stay with a trusted caregiver instead of a kennel with this in-home boarding option.
Choosing Boarding Pet Services
Before becoming a regular at a dog daycare or boarding facility, dog owners may be asked to allow their dog to participate in a temperament test. It helps understand how a dog reacts to other dogs around and helps notice personality quirks.
Preparing for dog boarding is a comprehensive process beyond dropping off furry friends.
Critical aspects for pet owners to consider include adequate socialization, regular visits to the vet’s office, and up-to-date vaccinations.
Conduct thorough research on boarding facilities and explore the significance of establishing a familiar environment, sleep, and crate training. Incorporating these factors ensures a positive and stress-free experience.
Preparing Your Dog for First-Time Pet Boarding Services
Owners have come to realize the importance of boarding services. They are stress-free and comfortable leaving their furry friends in a boarding place. A dog will likely not understand why it is in a new environment without you.
There are ways to prepare them for your absence. On the day before your trip, cuddle with your pet. Reassure the dog that you will be back, and let the pet know you care about its well-being and safety.
Plan for an emergency by including the clinic or veterinarian you take your pet to, the number for your destination, and your contact information. Before you leave, distract the dog with tasty food or new toys. Your leaving will not bother them.
Giving the dog calming chews also distracts your pet from you.
Say goodbye quickly. Dogs pick up emotions from your body language, so you must remain calm. Planning boarding for a dog for the first time can be challenging. The list of mistakes below helps prepare both you and your pet.
Not Having Up-to-Date Vaccinations
Vaccination is a crucial thing to do before putting a dog in a boarding facility. It is the safest means of preventing the spread of disease. Vaccines a dog should have include:
- Bordetella vaccine – given at least a week before boarding
- Canine influenza virus vaccine – given at least two weeks before boarding
- DAPP – protects against parvovirus, parainfluenza, hepatitis, and distemper
- Leptospirosis vaccine – protects against the disease
- Rabies vaccine – mandated every one or three years, depending on the location
Not Making Regular Veterinary Care Visits
Before boarding, a dog must be dewormed and defeated. It should also be treated for tick, flea, and lice prevention. Talk to your veterinarian about the required parasite treatment for your dog.
Not Letting a Dog Socialize
Socializing is essential when a dog needs to meet new, strange dogs at boarding kennels. Proper socialization prevents fear and anxiety when introduced to new situations and helps build confidence in experiencing new things.
Taking a dog to a dog park or for a morning walk helps it interact with other dogs and adapt to a new environment. Dogs learn to be comfortable with multiple dogs and adjust.
Not Practicing Sleep and Crate Training
Crate training is essential for creating a safe environment for dogs and teaching them independence and responsibility. However, many dog owners allow their dogs to sleep with them. Dogs sleeping with their owners find adjusting to new kennels difficult, and proper training is needed for them to adapt to sleeping alone.
Not Making the Boarding Facility a Familiar Environment
A new environment may be stressful for a dog. Carrying a few things from home, such as a blanket that smells like you, food they like, and favorite toys, provides comfort. Take the dog to the facility several times to adjust. If a dog takes medication, it is essential to give detailed instructions to the boarding staff.
Overfeeding the Dog
A major mistake owners make is overfeeding their dogs before taking them to a dog boarding facility. Dogs feel excited when they reach new surroundings, and the excitement may affect their digestive health, resulting in indigestion. Feed the pet a little less than usual.
Not Doing Research
Research a pet boarding facility by asking for recommendations from others who put their pets in boarding kennels. It helps choose the best dog facility for your pet. Take the puppy with you when you visit the place so they get used to the smells of the facility. Boarding kennels should:
- Have emergency veterinary care if needed
- Have parasite prevention
- Have a disaster plan in case of fire, natural disaster, etc.
- Ensure comfort, safety, and sanitation
- Have qualified staff trained in proper handling and care for animals
- Be fully licensed and insured
Check out the boarding staff of the boarding place to ensure they meet your expectations.
Very Important Paws Pet Boarding Facility
Dogs need responsible individuals who understand what dogs need and love animals. Unlike cats, dogs require dog walking, potty breaks outside, and other activities they cannot handle alone. Dog sitting is a huge responsibility.
Very Important Paws is conveniently located and run by qualified professionals who care about providing dogs with the attention needed during their stay. If your pet enjoys being around other pets in a playful and fun environment, contact us to book a stay.
Here are some reasons to choose our dog boarding services:
- We have experience boarding dogs of all ages and types.
- Professional dog trainers are on staff.
- Doggie daycare, training, and grooming services are available.
- We allow you to visit the facility ahead of time.
- Pet parents may check on their pets from time to time while they are away.
- We offer luxury suites for your dog.
- We treat your pet like family.
- Pets are our highest priority.
Cleanliness is a key concept. If premises are not well-maintained, kennel cough, ticks, and other health conditions spread easily. Broken furniture or rusted gates are red flags regarding the maintenance of the space.
We run a well-maintained facility.
At Very Important Paws, we take dog boarding seriously and treat your dog like family. We love animals and find it a pleasure to care for them as you would. VIP offers dog boarding services, such as dog walking and dog training.
We provide for pets’ needs, from feeding to exercise, relaxation to recreation, and everything in between. Your dog will be content and happy while you are on your trip, and we will provide plenty of fun and exercise.
Conclusion
Preparing a dog for a pet boarding facility is a multifaceted process that prioritizes your pet’s well-being. Training, socialization, veterinarian care, and vaccinations are the foundation for a positive experience.
Thorough research of facilities, creating a familiar environment, and feeding the pet in moderation help make the stay stress-free. Maintaining a calm demeanor and leaving the dog with familiar distractions during goodbyes eases the transition.
Embrace the information above and consider your dog’s specific needs. This will ensure a successful boarding experience. We provide pet parents with a safe place where their dogs receive around-the-clock care and attention. Contact us for your boarding needs today!