Traveling With Gold

Pet Boarding Tips
If you are expecting to go away in the future, or even if you don’t have plans to leave your pet, there comes a time when you must leave your pet in someone else’s care such as in the case of a family emergency for example. Friendships can be quickly strained from caring for other’s pets as well, and it can be much safer leaving the pet properly contained with someone who is experienced in pet care. So should you need to leave the pet at a boarding facility here are a few tips to make the experience easier on all involved.
-New clients and young animals should do an overnight stay or two in order for the pet to get accustomed to the routine and it reassures them that this is not abandonment which can cause severe depression in pets dropped off for a two-three week stay the very first time they go to a kennel. It can be far less stressful for your pet if he has been properly socialized and is comfortable coping on his own. It can be like going to camp for them and they can play, exercise and eat normally. Raising the puppy to be well adjusted socially will help with this.
-have a list of contact numbers for emergencies
-Most kennels allow you to take your own food. This is not a good time to switch diets or introduce new treats. If you have put it into a container other than what it was packaged in, it should be labeled with the dog’s name, brand and type and amount normally given. The amount may have to be adjusted at the kennel depending on level of exercise, body health condition, anxiety etc.
-Take safe toys that will be durable and entertaining, such as toys that can be filled with peanut butter etc.
-pets may make a mess coming or going from the kennel facility, so it is best to be prepared with pickup bags
-an upset stomach and bowels is very common and most kennels have aids for dealing with it. However, it may linger after you pickup your pet while he adjusts to being relocated again and a quick call to the kennel for advice can help.
-keep them under control and respectful on a short leash (extended leashes are only for when you are out walking)
-medications should be packaged with extra amount incase the stay is extended. It should be clearly marked with instructions and not premixed with treats or foods.
-check the kennel facilities boarding policy regarding vaccinations well in advance of boarding so there are no surprises. You will be expected to produce a copy of vaccinations upon arrival.
-New and unusual sugar and salt loaded treats may make you feel better for leaving your pet, but they can be very upsetting to a pet’s stomach
-the kennel may have a different odor. Most dogs do not come into the facility bathed, they often come with an assortment of unwashed bedding and the anxiety combined with feeding poor quality foods and various disinfecting products can produce some air quality that can be offensive to some
-an item with your scent (that you are willing to part with) such as a t-shirt or sock can be quite comforting to your pet.
-be calm and cheerful when you leave. Dogs can pick up on different body language, different tone of voice and bribes as a signal that there may be something to worry about. If you project confidence, they will too.
-when picking up, be happy but calm as well to reduce the pet’s anxiety
Submitted by Rocky Mountain Pet Resort