Pet Boarding is a common way for owners to ensure their pets are well cared for while they’re away. A quality boarding facility will provide structure that mimics the regular schedule many pets are used to, including meal times and playtime sessions.
Ask if the facility is locally owned and operated. This can help ensure that staff put the wellbeing of the boarders first. Read on Sierra Canine for more information.
If your pet needs a lot of care, the best option for you may be boarding. This is especially true for pets with a long history of separation anxiety, health conditions and elderly dogs or cats. Boarding facilities typically provide the most comprehensive care, with trained staff on hand around the clock to help your pet through their stay.
When choosing a boarding facility, make sure you visit the facility and observe their practices firsthand. Ask how they handle pet behavior problems, how the environment is cleaned and what sort of daily schedule they maintain. It’s also a good idea to bring your pet’s favorite toys, blankets or beds, as these can add comfort and familiarity during their stay.
Another important factor to consider is the number of other animals that will be staying at the facility. If there are too many other pets, your dog might be stressed out and could even become infected with kennel cough. Kennel cough is a contagious disease, and your dog can continue to shed bacteria for six to 14 weeks after they stop showing symptoms.
It’s also a good idea to make sure that your pet is up-to-date on all of its vaccinations and on a heartworm preventative and something to control fleas or ticks. Most boarding facilities will require proof of current vaccines before your pet can stay, so be sure to have these on hand. They also require that your pet is on a regular diet, so be sure to have food for your pet on the day you drop it off. This helps prevent stomach upset and ensures that your pet is eating regularly while he’s at the boarding facility.
Regular Routines
When you board your pet, he or she is placed into a regular routine that includes daily feedings and playtime. This schedule is designed to keep your pet happy and healthy while you are away. In addition, your pet is provided with the same quality food that you use at home. If your pet requires a special diet for any health issues, the facility will be sure to feed them according to the schedule you provide.
A good facility will have fields and other open spaces for pets to run, jump, and play in. This helps to relieve stress and anxiety. The staff also keeps an eye on the pets to make sure they are safe and secure. In addition, many boarding facilities offer single-room options for dogs and cats that are averse to socializing with other animals or prefer more privacy.
In addition, most reputable pet boarding facilities have experienced staff who are used to dealing with all kinds of pets and their different needs. They know how to spot signs of stress and discomfort in their guests and are able to act quickly when needed.
If you are unsure about how your pet will react to a stay at a boarding facility, it is always best to start with a gradual introduction. You can do this by bringing your dog to the boarding facility for a day or two to let him get used to his new surroundings before his stay. You should also leave clear instructions for the facility about your pet’s dietary preferences, medication (if applicable), and any other behavioral quirks that may be important to note. You should also ensure that your pet is microchipped so that he or she can be returned to you in the event of a loss or escape.
Routine Check-Ins
Pet owners want to feel confident their pet will be safe and well cared for during a boarding stay. Regular check-ins by experienced pet carers help maintain a pet’s routine and provide personalised care to keep them healthy and happy.
A quality facility will have established relationships with local veterinarians and clear emergency procedures in place to ensure pets can be seen quickly if necessary. Additionally, they will have detailed medical records for each pet and regularly review health status to identify any signs of illness or discomfort.
It is important for pet owners to discuss their boarding requirements with the facility they choose ahead of time. This will help to reduce anxiety for both the pet and their owner. It will also ensure the facility has everything they need to successfully care for your pet while you’re away.
Many facilities will provide pet owners with daily updates on their pets’ health, behaviour, and activities. This can be done via texts, emails, and photos. Some even have live webcams that allow you to monitor your pet’s boarding experience in real-time.
Pets thrive on routine, so it’s important to keep their usual habits intact when they’re boarded. For example, maintaining consistency in feeding times will help to minimise stress and prevent behavioural issues. Additionally, bringing familiar items like toys or blankets with your pet’s scent will give them comfort in their new environment. Physical activity before boarding, such as a long walk or play session will also help to burn off excess energy and create a calmer boarding experience. After your pet’s boarding stay, be patient with them as they readjust to their normal life. They may be tired or slightly lethargic due to the increased level of activity at the boarding facility.
Veterinary Care
Pet boarding facilities typically have on-site staff trained to respond to medical problems as they arise. This added layer of safety helps ease the anxiety many pets feel about being away from home, particularly for older or chronically ill animals. Many pet boarding services also have relationships with local veterinarians and may even have on-call vets on their team, giving you peace of mind that your furry family member is getting the highest quality of care.
Boarding services often provide schedules for meal times, potty breaks and exercise sessions. This can be comforting for pets that thrive on structure, which can help relieve stress and anxiety. Many boarding facilities also offer supervised group play sessions to help socialize sociable pets and burn off extra energy.
Some pet owners prefer in-home pet boarding, which provides the same level of care but offers more individualized attention. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with special needs or behavioral issues. In-home pet sitters can also keep up with your dog’s daily routine, including feeding and bathroom breaks, and can offer personalized playtime and walks as well.
No two pets are alike, so you will need to communicate to your pet boarding service any special instructions or preferences that your pet may have. This can include anything from dietary restrictions to a favorite toy. You should also bring enough of your pet’s food to last their entire stay, as switching diets can cause stomach upset and lash out. Finally, if you have a specialized medication for your pet to take, make sure the boarding facility knows how much and how often to administer it. It’s also a good idea to bring your pet’s regular heartworm preventative and parasite control medication as well, to prevent infections from entering the facility.
Comfort
The comfort of your pet is a big deal. Just like humans, pets are creatures of habit and thrive in familiarity. They can become stressed and anxious in new environments, and this can lead to behavior problems or health concerns. A well-run boarding facility will work to reduce your dog’s stress levels, which can improve their appetite, sleep, and overall mood. To ensure your dog’s comfort, it is important to provide the facility with detailed information about their routine, diet, medical needs, and behavior. You may also want to bring along some of their favorite toys or a blanket, as these items can give them a sense of security and comfort during their stay.
Pet boarding services are an excellent option for people who travel for work or family, and they can offer a safe and structured environment for pets while their owners are away. However, it is important to understand the benefits and risks of pet boarding before making your final decision.
It is important to find a good boarding facility with experienced staff members who can care for your pet properly. Before you book a stay, ask about their daily schedule for dogs and cats, their policies on medication, discipline, and behavioral management, and what types of add-on services they offer. It is also helpful to request regular updates via email or text message, and many boarding facilities now offer webcams that you can use to check in on your pet’s progress while you are away. This will help to ease your pet’s anxiety and give you peace of mind that they are in capable hands. Then, you can enjoy your vacation or work trip knowing that your pet is in good hands and is enjoying their own special time.