1) My first recommendation before any stay at a kennel is: to do your homework.
There are many different types of kennels, from cage free, to group play, to individual space with indoor /outdoor runs. Pick the one that fits your dogs needs. Shy and quiet dogs will not do well in group settings and may need private space to allow them to rest, where as young playful dogs will be bursting with energy if they only have limited playtime. You need to check them out, visit and talk to the owners. Ask lots of questions about sleeping arrangements, exercise, feeding routines etc. Not every dog is right for every kennel and both you and your dog need to be comfortable with the kennel you choose.
2)If time permits schedule a daycare appointment first.
Daycare is a great way to introduce your dog to a facility and the staff without the overwhelming experience of a nightime stay. It allows the dog to get used to the routines and daily goings on and more importantly gives the facility staff a chance to give you feed back on how your dog is dealing with all the change. Sometimes it helps to have a few more days of daycare or even a one night stay to make sure your dog is adjusting well before you head off on your 2 week european vaccation.
3)Aways give your Kennel all your dogs information
Even if you think it isn't relevant or it may look bad on your dog, providing the kennel with all your dogs personality traits is important. If your dog has food aggression issues or doesn't like children or small dogs for example, make sure the staff know it. It will only help to ensure not only safety but your dogs comfort as well. Most trained kennel staff can work around common behaviours as long as they know about it before hand.
4) Drop off in the morning
Even if you aren't leaving till the evening or early the next morning, it is always best to drop your dog off in the morning time slots to allow your dog time to settle in and and settle down. It is worth the extra day board to make sure his/her first night is successful. Dogs need time to adjust to a new environment before they can relax and sleep so give them the day to meet the staff and other dogs and relieve some energy and anexiety before they are asked to go to bed for the evening.
5)Try to keep night time rituals the same
If possible bring all your dogs sleeping arrangements you use in your home (with the excepetion of you and your bed of course) Whatever your dog associates with rest/quiet time should be brought to your kennel. Crates, mats, blankets toys he/she sleeps with, kongs with peanut butter etc, should all be packed with his/her stuff. It is easy to distract dogs during the day with playtime and walks but at night time you want your dog to be comforted by familiar scents and rountines. If you always give your dog a biscuit before bed, your kennel should do the same. You can also include a gently used item of your clothing to help with scent associated with home.
6)Leave your negative emotions at the door
This is probably one of the best things you can do for your dog. If you do practices steps 1-5 you should feel comfortable and confident that your dog will be well cared for in your absence. I know your dog is part of your family and of course you are going to miss and probably worry a little about him/her. But if you can try to be positive and believe your dog is going to have a good time, it will greatly improve the likely hood that he/she will. But on the contrary , if you feel bad , or are apprehensive about leaving your dog, you will send this negative energy message to your pet.
No comments:
Post a Comment