By making preparations in advance, you can reduce the stress of leaving your pet home. Either boarding your pet or employing a pet sitter to come to your home, there are multiple things you can do to make the transition smoother for both of you. You’ve researched and found what you think is the best boarding facility for your dog or cat while you’re gone.
Tips for preparing your pet for boarding.
Even the most chill and easygoing pets might experience stress from boarding, so it’s important to prepare your pet for the change. Here are five steps to prepare your pet for cat and dog boarding in Augusta, GA
Attempt a Trial Run.
You should arrange a trial stay for your pet at the boarding facility a few weeks before you leave, especially if this is their first time there or if you are trying out a new facility. To help your pet acclimatize to its new environment and habit, book an overnight stay at a boarding facility.
By doing so, you’ll help the boarding facility’s staff become familiar with your pet before you leave and better equipped to handle any quirks they may encounter that may sometimes require the assistance of a veterinary dentist. You, your pet, and the boarding facility staff might benefit from a brief practice run before you go for good.
Adjust Sleep Habits
Your pet may require extra time to acclimate to boarding if they are used to spending the night in your bed with you.
You may help your pet adjust to sleeping alone or in a kennel by closing the door to your bedroom each night or using a crate if necessary. Do not let your pet lie in bed with you, but think about moving the crate into the bedroom if it creates too much noise for you to sleep.
Keep the Comfort
Many kennels and catteries provide basic amenities, but nothing surpasses having a few familiar items from home. Small items from home, like a blanket, rug, or soft toy, can be brought into most boarding facilities to make your pet more at ease. These things will help your pet adapt to his or her new environment at the kennel.
Plan Your Drop-off
You should bring your pet to the boarding facility early if time allows. As a result, kids will have all day to adjust to their new home and more people around to help if they feel overwhelmed. Thanks to the extra time, you can rest easier the first night, knowing you checked up on your pet the day after they arrived.
Consult the Vet
All boarding facilities need proof of a recent veterinary exam and pet vaccinations for the well-being of your pet and the other boarded animals. Plan a visit to the vet a week or so before you go to ensure your pet is in good enough health to board and has all of the necessary immunizations. Get your vet’s opinion on how to aid your pet in adjusting to boarding.
Conclusion
Many pet owners would love to bring their pets along on every trip, but this isn’t always practical. Leaving your dog at a kennel might be difficult, but you can be assured that he will be very well taken care of while you’re apart. If you want to reduce your pet’s anxiety and get some peace of mind yourself while you’re gone, follow the steps outlined above.
