Your dog is a part of your family, but sometimes life means leaving him behind in a dog boarding facility. But you can't just stick your best buddy in some kennel on your way to the airport. You won't enjoy your vacation unless your mind is at ease that your baby's needs are being met in a welcoming and caring environment.
Isn't the point of a vacation to energize our selves? We want to experience different surroundings for new inspiration and find personal renewal. So, make it a vacation for your pet, too.
There are three basic types of dog boarding facilities:
- Traditional kennel: individual cages; they may have group play - make sure you ask
- Nontraditional kennel: no cages, ideal for well-socialized dogs
- Veterinarian's office: individual cages; typically not staffed overnight
Don't fret too much if your pet isn't a good match for a nontraditional kennel and therefore must be caged. As members of the wolf family, dogs feel comfortable in small, den-like confines. Plus if your dog is older or a solitary type, he will appreciate a private place to regroup.
A trial night is a wise idea so you can get a feel for how your dog will fare and how he and the caretaker(s) will get along. Talk with the staff; these people are in business to help animals, but it's possible that they won't click, and sussing out any negative energy beforehand is crucial for you and your pet.
Once you have a good feeling about your dog boarding facility and provider you're halfway there! Just pack a few things to maximize your buddy's comfort. Here are a few separation anxiety remedies:
- There are many effective supplements that can help a pet feel peace while he's away from his home and loved ones. Check www.onlynaturalpet.com for a multitude of anxiety-reducing products with no artificial ingredients.
- Toys and chews: old favorites as well as fresh ones for distraction
- Your dog's own bed
- An old, unwashed t-shirt so that Daisy can have your scent with her for reassurance
These things will maximize her emotional comfort during the boarding time as well as help her to occupy her time. Try these sites for a slew of wonderful things to entertain your best friend while you're apart:
AnimalDen.com
CheapPetStore.com
EntirelyPets.com
OnlyNaturalPet.com
DogToys.com
ActiveK9.com
(Of course, Fido's old bed is comfy as an old shoe, but if it's tattered and losing its stuffing, maybe a brand-new one is a good idea. It's like sending the kids to summer camp with new underwear! In wintertime we LOVE this idea: the heated bed from www.coldheat.com an amazing treat for your favorite buddy.)
With just a bit of preparation you'll find the dog boarding facility that's just right. Now you've paved the way to your own enjoyable and rejuvenating get-away. And of course, when it's time to return you get to enjoy not only a renewed appreciation for home but also that other great benefit: a joyous reunion with your favorite companion.
