What is The Meaning of Dog Boarding: A Guide for Pet Owners
- What is dog boarding
- Different types of dog boarding
- Difference between dog boarding & pet sitting
- Pros & Cons of dog boarding
- How to choose a dog boarding facility
- Conclusion
- Frequently asked questions
What is dog boarding meaning?
Dog boarding refers to providing temporary care for a dog in a boarding facility or kennel, typically when the dog's owner is away on vacation or unable to care for the dog. The dog will be provided with food, water, and a safe place to stay, and may also receive exercise and socialization with other dogs. Some boarding facilities may also offer additional services such as grooming or training.
What are the different types of dog boarding available?
1. Traditional boarding kennels:
These are facilities where dogs are kept in individual cages or run during their stay. They may be indoors or outdoors and typically have staff available 24/7 to take care of the dogs.
2. In-home boarding:
This type of boarding involves a dog staying in the home of a host family or individual. The dog will be treated as a family member and may have more freedom and socialization than in a traditional boarding kennel.
3. Doggy daycare:
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In this type of boarding, dogs are dropped off during the day for socialization, exercise & playtime and are picked up at night by the owner.
4. Dog sitting:
Dog sitting is a type of boarding where a professional dog sitter will look after your dog by staying in your own home when you are away.
5. Luxury dog boarding:
This type of boarding is a more upscale version of traditional boarding, where your dog will get pampered with luxury amenities, extra space, and more human interaction.
It is critical to visit and inspect the facility before leaving your dog in any of these options & also to check if they have a license and are following the local regulations.
Difference between dog boarding & pet sitting
pros and cons of dog boarding
Top 5 Pros of dog boarding:
- Dogs are supervised and cared for by professionals while the owner is away.
- Dogs receive regular meals and exercise.
- They will keep your dog in a safe and secure environment.
- Some facilities offer additional services such as grooming and training.
- Boarding can be a good option for dogs who are not well-suited for doggy daycare or dog sitting in a host family home.
Top 5 cons of dog boarding:
- Dogs may feel stressed or anxious in a new environment.
- Dogs may not receive as much individual attention as they would at home.
- Dogs have a high chance of getting exposed to illnesses or parasites from other dogs.
- Some facilities may have limited space and not provide enough room for dogs to move around.
- Some facilities may not have strict regulations and not provide good care for the dogs.
how to choose a dog boarding facility?
1. Research different facilities in your area:
2. Visit the facility:
3. Check for licensing and insurance:
4. Inquire about staff qualifications:
5. Consider the size and layout of the facility:
6. Ask about the care and services provided:
7. Check the facility's policies and procedures:
8. Think about your dog's needs:
9. Get references:
10. Ask about the cost and any additional fees:
Are you ready to enjoy a peaceful and guilt-free mind?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is boarding stressful for dogs?
Yes, boarding can be stressful for dogs. They may experience separation anxiety and stress from facing a new and unfamiliar environment. Additionally, they may not be used to being around other dogs and may become anxious or stressed, so to minimize the effect make sure to choose a reputable boarding facility that provides plenty of exercise, socialization, and individual attention for dogs. It's also a good idea to bring familiar items, such as a favorite blanket or toy, to help your dog feel more at home.
How do I prepare my dog for boarding?
Gradually acclimate your dog to being away from you: Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods and slowly increasing the duration to help your dog get used to being away from you and reduce the risk of separation anxiety.
Get your dog used to being handled by others: Take your dog to the vet or groomer so they can get used to being handled by strangers to make it easier for them to adjust to the boarding staff.
Socialize: If your dog stays in a group setting, it must be comfortable around other dogs. Take them to a dog park or arrange playdates with other dogs to help them become more social.
Bring along familiar items: Bring items that smell like home, such as a blanket or toy, to help your dog feel more comfortable in the unfamiliar environment.
Sharing in-detail information: Provide detailed information about your dog's routine, diet, or medical or behavioral issues to the boarding facility to help them take better care of your dog during their stay.
Previsit the facility:Visit the boarding facility before your dog's stay helping you to see the environment and staff. Also, you can check whether your dog is comfortable with the environment and staff.
At what age can a puppy be left in a boarding?
Puppies can typically be left in a boarding facility starting at around 12-16 weeks of age when they have completed their initial vaccinations. They are safe from common contagious diseases at this age & it is safe for them to be around other dogs. However, it's important to note that every puppy is different & some may not be ready for boarding at this age due to health or behavioral issues. It's always best to consult your veterinarian and the boarding facility to determine if your puppy is ready for boarding. Ensure that the boarding facility you choose is experienced with puppies and can provide the necessary care and attention. Puppies have different needs than adult dogs, so ensure that the facility meets all their needs during their stay.
How long should you leave your dog in boarding?
The length of time you should leave your dog in boarding depends on several factors, including your dog's individual needs, the type of boarding facility, and your travel plans. Generally, We suggest minimizing the time your dog spends in boarding, as being in a new and unfamiliar environment can be stressful.
If you are going away for a short period, such as a weekend, a dog-sitting service or a boarding facility that offers daycare may be a good option. These facilities typically provide dogs with plenty of exercises, socialization, and individual attention.
If you are going away for an extended period, such as a vacation or a business trip, it may be necessary for your dog to stay in a boarding facility for a week or longer. In this case, choose a reputable facility that provides plenty of exercise, socialization, and individual attention for dogs. Look for a reputable boarding facility that you can trust.
Regardless of how long your dog will be in the boarding facility, ensure to visit the facility before deciding to see if the facility is clean, well-maintained, and staffed with experienced and caring people. Try to keep in touch with the facility while you're away to check how your dog is doing.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from boarding?
The time it takes for a dog to recover from boarding depends on the individual dog and their specific experience while in boarding. Some dogs may recover quickly and return to their routine within a day or two, while others may take longer to adjust. Factors that can impact a dog's recovery time include the duration of the stay, care quality & the personality and temperament of the dog.
Dogs that have experienced high levels of stress or anxiety while in boarding may take longer to recover. Be patient and give your dog time to return to its basic routine. Provide extra attention and affection, go for walks or runs, and provide plenty of opportunities for play and exercise.
It can also be helpful to give your dog a familiar environment and items, like their favorite blanket or toy, to help them feel more at ease. Additionally, you can provide your dog with a comfortable bed, food, and water in the first 24-48 hours after their return.
Monitor your dog for signs of stress or anxiety, such as panting, trembling, or hiding. If you notice your dog struggling to adjust, it is always best to consult your veterinarian or a professional trainer for guidance.
