How To Make Boarding Your Dog Go Smoothly

The holidays are coming up and that often means travel, parties and family gatherings. Sometimes your dog is not part of the family plans so you may need to book a ‘staycation’ for him/her. Many people use friends or family to take care of their dogs while they are gone and that’s ok. But what if you don’t have anyone or the whole family is going away? Boarding your dog is a great option but there are a few key things you need to know in order for it to be a good experience for the dog.

Here are my top 5 things for you to know in order to help make it the best possible experience for you and your dog:

1. Make sure you practice boarding before you board. It is a good idea to schedule a couple short (one night or two night) boardings prior to actually going on vacation so your dog understands the process.
2. Start young. If you have a puppy, even if you are not planning a trip right now, start to teach your young puppy what boarding is all about. Show them that it’s ok to sleep somewhere else and it’s ok to eat somewhere else.
3. Check out the facility. Do they have referrals on a Facebook page or website? Can you go for a complete tour of the facility and do you like what you see when you are there? Do the dogs look happy? Are the staff thorough in answering your questions? Do they seem knowledgeable?  Paws In Time in the Fox Valley area is an excellent option if you live near there.
4. If daycare is available at the facility you wish to board at, start by having your dog go to daycare several times prior to their boarding stay. This will help to alleviate separation anxiety by showing your dog that the place you have chosen is a fun place. You and your dog will begin to feel more comfortable about leaving each other.
5. Book early! Good dog boarding facilities like Paws In Time in West Chicago, IL and Oswego, IL start booking for Thanksgiving in March at Spring. Often clients will book for the next year when they pick up their dog because they already know they will be going away during that holiday.

I hope this helps you feel confident in your decision to board your dog.  Send me your feedback and let me know.  We are always looking for ways to improve.

Happy Dog = Happy You!

Julie