Preparing Your Dog For Its First Boarding Session

If you intend on traveling and you are a current dog owner, you need to make plans for your pooch to be cared for in your absence. Bringing your dog to a boarding facility in your area allows you to have the peace of mind that your pet is being monitored the entire time you are away. If your dog has not yet been to one of these establishments, follow these steps in preparation.

Bring Your Dog To The Business For A Visit

Most boarding services allow potential clients to come to their buildings to take tours of the grounds. Contact the boarding facilities to inquire as to whether they allow for visits, and also ask whether you can bring your dog along. If so, walk around the facility with your dog on a leash at all times. If you are unable to find a boarding service that allows for tours, you may be able to bring your dog for special events, such as training lessons or a grooming session. Your dog has the chance to become familiarized with the scents and sights within the establishment, as well as get to know some of the staff members working there.

Get Your Dog Used To Being Around Others

If your dog is not very social, it is important to introduce your pet to other dogs before they go to a boarding facility. Interaction with other dogs prepares your own pet for playtime at a boarding facility. Ask friends and neighbors to get together with you and your dog to go for walks or spend some time at a dog park in your neighborhood. In addition, spend time with plenty of people in the days and weeks before your trip so your dog becomes accustomed to being around unfamiliar faces.

Consider Crate Training Your Pet

Dogs at boarding facilities will have their own personal space for sleeping. If your dog is not used to being crated, it is a wise idea to try this at home before going to a boarding business. Purchase a crate and place it in an area near your dog's normal resting space. Encourage your dog to go inside to enjoy a treasured toy or treat a few times a day. Do not close the door, however. Allow your dog to get used to the space first. After a while, close the door when your dog is busy eating or playing. Keep them inside for several minutes before letting them back out again. Increase the amount of time you keep your dog crated until they successfully take a nap inside. Even if you do not use the crate constantly, your dog will get used to being contained so they are less anxious when in a confined area at a boarding facility.

Contact a professional for more information about dog boarding. 

Share