Dog boarding can be particularly stressful for our nervous fur babies, filled with unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. However, with thoughtful preparation and a suitable boarding facility, you can transform a potentially anxiety-ridden separation into a calm and positive experience for your anxious pup. Here’s how to ensure a serene stay for your nervous dog.
Pick a Boarding Facility That is Experienced With Anxious Dogs
The first step in ensuring a stress-free boarding experience for your nervous dog is to select a facility well-versed in handling anxious pets. Look for places that advertise their expertise in caring for dogs with various temperaments and offer a calm, soothing environment.
Dog Boarding Facilities with staff trained in animal behavior or canine anxiety can be particularly beneficial.
Tour the Dog Boarding Facility
Before committing to a boarding facility, schedule a visit to tour the premises. This visit will give you a sense of the environment your dog will be in and allow you to observe firsthand how the staff interacts with the animals.
Look for clean, well-organized spaces, ample room for play and rest, and an overall peaceful atmosphere. A visit can also help your dog become acquainted with the new environment, making the transition smoother when it’s time to board.
Tell the Staff About Your Dog’s Needs
Communication is vital when boarding a nervous dog. Be upfront with the staff about your pet’s temperament, likes, dislikes, triggers, and specific routines that help them feel secure. The more the staff knows about your dog’s needs, the better they can accommodate them, ensuring a comforting and stress-minimizing stay.
Items From Home Can Lower Stress
A piece of home can go a long way in soothing a nervous dog. Bring familiar items like your dog’s favorite bed, toy, or even an article of your clothing. Familiar scents and objects can provide a sense of security and comfort, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety in an unfamiliar setting.
Board Your Dog for a Trial
Consider a trial boarding session before an extended stay. A short overnight or weekend stay can serve as a test run, allowing your dog to get used to being away from home and helping them become familiar with the boarding facility’s staff and routines. This trial run can significantly reduce anxiety for you and your pet when it comes time for a more extended separation.
Provide Medication and Calming Supplements
If your dog takes medication or uses calming supplements to manage anxiety, ensure the boarding facility is aware and capable of administering these. Always provide clear instructions and an ample supply of any medications or supplements your dog may need during their stay.
Boarding a nervous dog doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety for you or your pet. By choosing a suitable facility, preparing your dog with familiar items, and ensuring the staff is fully informed about your pet’s needs, you can create a positive boarding experience.
Dog Boarding Washington DC
For those seeking a dog boarding facility in Washington DC with a proven track record of handling nervous dogs, K-9 Divine is an excellent choice. With a focus on providing a serene environment and personalized care, K-9 Divine specializes in catering to the unique needs of anxious pets.
Our experienced staff is skilled in creating a nurturing and calm atmosphere, ensuring your nervous dog feels secure and cared for in your absence. Contact us at 202-769-5359 and schedule a dog boarding visit today.