Sending your dog to day care offers enrichment, workout, and psychological stimulation. Yet it can also be a stressful experience for the both of you.
It is very important to remain calm and positive at drop-off time, as pet dogs can notice your emotions. Method brief splittings up at home to assist your pet dog really feel more comfortable with leaving you.
1. Set up a Meet & Greet
The meet and greet is a vital initial step to developing a relying on partnership with animal care carriers. This meeting is typically performed in a tranquility, neutral setting free from diversions.
Brimhall clarifies that "It's always best to drop off your pet dog and leave asap." This is vital for your pup to associate dropping them off with something positive occurring!
2. Bring Your Pet's Fave Toys
Bringing your dog's preferred playthings to daycare is a terrific means to ease them into the new environment. It likewise permits them to play with something familiar, which can make the experience much more satisfying for them.
If your pet has a special toy or blanket that smells like home, bring it along. These convenience products can function as a relaxing device throughout stressful times.
3. Bring Your Canine's Regular Food
If your canine needs medication, be sure to pack it. Numerous animal day care and boarding facilities are experienced with providing medicines.
Offering your canine with their routine food can assist prevent any type of stomach upset or other issues from changing their diet. This is particularly essential for boarding pet dogs. Additionally, keep in mind to load a preferred bed or covering that scents like home!
4. Bring a Leash
A leash can come in handy for your dog's first day of doggie daycare. They may need to be crated during their initial introductions and a leash can help keep them safe until they feel more comfortable.
It's also important to familiarize your dog with the facility and the team who work there before their first stay. This helps both you and your pup to better understand what is expected of them.
5. Pack a Day Bag
If your dog takes medication or supplements, pack an adequate supply for their stay and clearly label them. Also include a schedule and instructions on how to administer them, so the facility can follow your dog's regimen.
Bringing comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket with your scent can help reduce stress and anxiety for both you and your pet. Lastly, don't forget your dog's leash and collar.
6. Keep Your overnight dog boarding Emotions Positive
Dogs pick up on their owner's emotions, so if you are anxious about dropping off your dog, they will be too. Try to keep your goodbyes short and happy.
Many daycare facilities offer a complimentary visit or trial day to help dogs become familiar with the facility. This may make the first day go more smoothly.
7. Bring Your Dog's Vaccinations
If your dog is new to daycare, getting them caught up on their vaccinations will be an essential first step. Most reputable facilities require all dogs to be current on rabies, distemper/parvovirus, and bordetella (aka kennel cough).
Keeping your dog up to date with these preventative vaccines helps ensure that infectious diseases are not spread between other pups in the facility.
8. Plan a Short Walk or Playtime Before Daycare
Sending your dog to daycare for the first time can be exciting and nerve-wracking. A reputable facility will keep you in the loop on how your pup is adjusting and will treat their health and safety with seriousness.
Make sure to plan a short walk or playtime before daycare so your dog has a chance to burn off excess energy. A calm and relaxed dog will have a easier time adjusting to their new environment.
9. Keep Your Dog's Schedule Consistent
Keeping your dog's schedule consistent helps them adapt to daycare and understand that this is a normal part of their routine. If possible, feed your pup at the same times each day and keep a consistent exercise schedule.
Keeping your emotions calm and confident during drop off will help your dog feel comfortable in their new environment. Be sure to say a quick, happy goodbye to avoid separation anxiety.
10. Keep Communication Open
A good daycare will keep communication open with pet parents throughout their dog's stay. This means giving them updates and asking how their pup is adjusting to the new environment.
A short walk or playtime before daycare helps your dog burn off energy and get used to the new environment. A quick and confident drop off also helps prevent separation anxiety.
