Do you need to board your dog for the first time and feel unsure about the process? Choosing the perfect boarding facility can stir up emotions. Here, our Lincoln veterinarians offer a set of tips to assist you in making an informed decision when selecting the ideal dog boarding facility for your furry friend.
What You Need to Know About Boarding Your Dog
Before you select a boarding facility (kennel) for your dog, consider the following essential factors:
Understand the boarding facility's rules and policies.
Before you board your dog at a new facility, make sure to communicate with the staff regarding their rules, regulations, and the services they provide. Inquire about the type of food they provide for dogs, find out what items you can bring from home, such as toys and blankets, understand their emergency procedures, and check if they can administer your dog's medicine.
By asking about the facility's policies, procedures, and services, you can effectively assess and choose your dog's ideal home away from home.
Ensure that your dog's vaccinations are up to date.
Every reputable dog boarding kennel shares a common requirement: your dog's vaccinations must be up to date. They insist on documented proof that your dog has received all the necessary immunizations. This precaution is crucial because kennel environments can facilitate the rapid spread of common dog illnesses and diseases. By ensuring your pup's immunizations are current, you not only protect your furry friend but also safeguard the well-being of all the dogs at the facility. Make sure to inquire in advance about the specific immunizations your kennel of choice mandates for your pup.
Check out the facility well ahead of time.
Kennels that house a lot of pets can get messy quickly. While a boarding facility can't be kept fully sterile, a high-quality boarding facility will still look and smell clean. So, before booking your dog's stay, visit the kennel and make sure it's kept organized and clean.
Keep your own emotions in check when you drop off your dog.
Dogs excel in deciphering the emotions of their pet parents. Your canine companion can discern whether you're experiencing stress, overcompensating, or bidding farewell. These emotions will directly influence your dog's mood and behavior, making it more challenging for them to unwind when you depart. Stick to simplicity, brevity, and positivity to facilitate a smoother separation.
Your dog may exhibit different behaviors when they first come home.
You should grasp the significance of recognizing that your dog may exhibit slight variations in behavior during the initial days following their return from the kennel. Your pup might display signs of clinginess, lethargy, or diarrhea. Additionally, they might exhibit an increased appetite or thirst. Nevertheless, this constitutes a typical reaction to your dog's enthusiasm for returning home. Should these conditions persist beyond a few days, it is advisable to reach out to your veterinarian.
Trust your gut when looking for the best place to board your dog.
We believe that trusting your instincts is a great first step when choosing a kennel for your dog. If you don't feel comfortable with a place, look for another. If they have a policy you don't like, look around at different kennels until you find one that you can trust completely.
Boarding Your Dog at Critter Creek Veterinary Hospital
We provide overnight boarding and daycare services for cats and dogs at our Lincoln. When you're away, we ensure your beloved furry companion experiences a warm and cozy home-away-from-home environment. Our services include medical boarding, meticulously maintained temperature-controlled kennels, designated boarding spaces for cats and dogs, interactive play sessions with our dedicated staff, daily strolls, and much more!
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition or boarding needs.