pet daycare and separation anxiety in dogs

With summer right around the corner, you may have plans to be away from home for a vacation and won't be able to bring your dog with you. If your dog is older, you'll need to be extra careful to arrange boarding at a facility that can safely accommodate them. By knowing what you can do to make your senior dog comfortable at a dog day care facility, you won't need to worry while you're on vacation.

Make Sure Your Dog is in Good Health

The first thing you'll want to do before booking a stay at a pet hotel for your dog is making an appointment at your trusted vet. By visiting the vet with your senior dog, you can get them a wellness exam that can help alert you of anything that may be wrong with your dog. If your dog is sick or has any health problems you weren't aware of, it may be best to avoid using a pet hotel.

Ask for Advice from Your Vet

In fact, many of the tips for soothing your dog at the vet can be used while at a boarding facility too. Some examples include bringing along toys and blankets that have the scent of home on them and staying in a relaxed mood when dropping your dog off at the facility.  

Choose a Boarding Kennel with Seniors in Mind

When you begin to compare boarding facilities, it's so important that you ask about their amenities related to senior dogs. A lot of people make the mistake of choosing a pet hotel without first asking if they have a quiet space for older dogs or if they have a vet on hand in the event of any medical emergencies. With these amenities secured, you can feel better knowing that your dog is in good hands while you're gone.

Provide Detailed Instructions and Contact Information

While this is true for dogs of any age, you'll need to provide the facility manager with information about any medications of health concerns and where you'll be on your trip. With this information provided, the pet hotel can offer the best care for your senior dog.

Opt for Extra Services While Boarding

Most pet hotels offer a wide range of services for clients, including grooming, walks, and playtime with other dogs. While it's important to consider what kind of care your dog specifically needs, it's often a good idea to choose a kennel that can provide quiet one-on-one care that will keep your dog relaxed during their stay.

Making sure that your senior dog is well taken care of while on vacation mostly has to do with the boarding facility you choose, but you can help influence it as well. Preparing your dog for their stay with a quick trip to the vet and speaking with the facility manager at length can put your mind at ease that your dog will be comfortable.