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Your daily dose of doggy goodness!

Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!

Dog of the Day:

Cooper!

Meme of the day: Uh oh!

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Preparing Your Canine Companion for a Smooth Boarding Stay

Leaving your beloved dog behind when you go on vacation or a business trip can be a little stressful for both of you. However, with some thoughtful preparation, you can ensure your dog has a comfortable, safe, and even enjoyable experience at a boarding facility. A smooth transition and stay start long before you drop them off.

Research and Choose the Right Facility:

Not all boarding kennels are created equal. Start your search well in advance and consider factors like:

  • Reputation: Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and check their accreditation.

  • Facility Tour: Visit in person. Look for cleanliness, secure enclosures, and ample space for dogs to move.

  • Staff Interaction: Observe how staff interact with the dogs. Are they knowledgeable, caring, and attentive?

  • Services Offered: Do they provide playtime, walks, grooming, or special care for senior dogs or puppies?

  • Safety Protocols: Inquire about their emergency plans, veterinary partnerships, and vaccination requirements.

  • Vibe: Does the place feel calm and welcoming, or chaotic and stressful?

Up-to-Date Vaccinations and Health Records:

Most reputable boarding facilities require proof of current vaccinations, including Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus (often combined as DHPP or DAPP), Rabies, and Bordetella (kennel cough). Ensure your dog is up-to-date and provide copies of their records. It's also wise to have your dog on a flea and tick preventative.

Practice Short Stays (If Possible):

If your dog has never been boarded before, consider a trial run. A one-night stay or even a few hours of doggy daycare can help them get accustomed to the environment, staff, and routine. This can significantly reduce anxiety for their longer stay.

Pack Smart: Essentials from Home:

While facilities provide food and bedding, bringing familiar items can offer comfort and consistency.

  • Their Regular Food: This is crucial to avoid upsetting their stomach. Portion it into individual baggies for each meal, clearly labeled with your dog's name and feeding instructions.

  • Treats: A few favorite treats can be a great way to reward good behavior and provide comfort.

  • Medications: If your dog needs medication, bring it in its original container with clear, written instructions, dosage, and administration times.

  • A Favorite Toy or Blanket: Something with your scent can be incredibly reassuring. Choose items that are easily washable and won't be missed if they get damaged.

  • Comfort Item: A worn t-shirt or blanket that smells like you can provide immense comfort.

  • Leash and Collar: Ensure they are secure and clearly labeled with your dog's ID.

Update Contact Information and Emergency Contacts:

Provide the boarding facility with current phone numbers where you can be reached, as well as an emergency contact person who lives locally and can make decisions on your behalf if needed. Clearly state your preferences regarding veterinary care in an emergency.

Inform the Staff About Your Dog's Habits and Personality:

Be honest and thorough when discussing your dog's temperament, habits, fears, and quirks. Does your dog:

  • Have any anxieties (e.g., thunderstorms, separation anxiety)?

  • Get along well with other dogs or prefer solitude?

  • Have any dietary sensitivities or allergies?

  • Have a favorite spot to be petted?

  • Have any unique signals for needing to go outside?

  • Dislike being touched in certain areas?

The more information the staff has, the better they can cater to your dog's individual needs and ensure their comfort.

Maintain a Calm Demeanor During Drop-Off:

Your dog picks up on your emotions. If you are anxious or upset, they will sense it and become anxious themselves. Keep your goodbyes brief and cheerful. A quick hug, a reassuring word, and then hand them over to the staff. Trust that you’ve done your homework and they are in good hands.

Consider a Pre-Boarding Check-Up:

A visit to the vet a week or two before boarding can ensure your dog is in optimal health and up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations. This can catch any potential issues before they become a problem during their stay.

Desensitize to Crates (If Applicable):

If your dog will be housed in a crate, make sure they are comfortable and happy spending time in it at home. Never use the crate as punishment, and ensure it's a positive, safe space.

Post-Boarding Routine:

When you pick up your dog, they might be tired from all the excitement or a little clingy. Give them time to readjust to being home. Expect them to be thirsty and perhaps need to relieve themselves quickly. Avoid overfeeding them right away, and gradually reintroduce their normal routine.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce stress for both you and your dog, allowing you to enjoy your time away with peace of mind, knowing your furry friend is well cared for.

Dog Food and Supplement Recalls

Here are the recent recalls and advisories:

  • Foodynamics - Freeze Dried Pet Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.

  • Nature’s Own - Pet Chews Bully Bites Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.

  • Viva - Ground Beef for Dogs and Ground Chicken for Dogs and Cats for potential Salmonella and Listeria contamination.

  • Savage Pet - Cat Food Chicken for potential bird flu exposure.

Family Photo of the Day:

Nova!

We want to feature your pup!

We want to share your pup with our pack. Email us your favorite doggy pic or video with your pup’s name, and we'll try to feature it as a family photo in one of our upcoming newsletters or on our Facebook page.

Share our newsletter with your friends!

Meme of the day: @mrpoodlemilo

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