Giving Extra Care to Your Pet Babies

A much-needed vacation is approaching, but there’s worry about how to care for the pets. While there are plenty of options, boarding can be one of the safest ones for pets and can be a great way to ensure they’re taken care of until the owners return. For pets who are nervous about being away from their owners, there are some things that can be done to provide the extra care they need. 

Find the Right Facility

It is crucial to start by finding the right facility, as they aren’t all equal. Some facilities are simply kennels where the dogs will stay all day except when they’re taken on a walk. Others, though, are more like a VIP experience for the dog. A pet hotel boarding facility is going to offer plenty more amenities, from a larger area for sleeping to time playing with other puppies and plenty of fun. 

Get the Puppy Used to a Kennel

Make sure the puppy is used to a kennel before boarding them so there won’t be as big of an adjustment when they arrive. If the puppy is used to a kennel, they’ll likely settle in quickly and get a little rest before the fun begins. Start by kennel training the puppy so they are used to being in a kennel and happy to go in it when it’s time to rest. This can be started at any age, so it’s still possible to do for older dogs. 

Bring Comfort Items

Bringing blankets or other comfort items from home can help pets settle in at the facility and be more comfortable during their stay. This could include a blanket they love, their favorite toy, or a shirt that smells like their owners. Dogs have a strong sense of smell, so even if the blanket doesn’t really smell like anything to humans, it can smell like home to them and help them relax. 

Talk to the Vet About Medications

For dogs that have separation anxiety, it may be beneficial to talk to the vet before going away. A vet can prescribe medications to help with anxiety in dogs, which could help the pet relax at the kennels. The dog may need to be on the medication for a few weeks to get it to work properly and it can take some time to find the right one, so it is best to talk to the vet well ahead of the vacation. 

Avoid a Drawn-Out Goodbye

Avoid taking a long time to say goodbye at the facility. Simply take the pet in, sign them in, say a quick goodbye, and leave. This is easier on the pet, as they won’t get all excited or start to get anxious by a drawn-out goodbye. It’s also easier on the pet parents, too, and they’ll be able to start the vacation right away. 

If you’re planning a much-needed vacation, don’t forget to plan for the pets, too. Take the time to check out different facilities to learn more about what they have to offer and how they’ll take care of your pets while you’re gone. The right facility is going to ensure the puppies are as comfortable as possible while you’re away and that they get a chance to enjoy their vacation, too.