Morristown, TN
Putting your beloved dog in the care of someone else can invoke feelings of fear or anxiety for both you and your furry family member. But sometimes boarding your dog is a necessity due to your work schedule, traveling commitments, or other engagements in which you need your dog cared for in your absence. Boarding your dog out of necessity doesn’t make the experience any easier for you both and sometimes, dogs become anxious and stressed when being boarded. So, today on the blog, your Morristown doggie daycare, AllDogs, shares seven tips for boarding a nervous dog so that your pup will enjoy their next stay.
Choose the right boarding facility
The first step in ensuring your dog will be stress-free during their stay is to choose a trusted dog boarding facility like AllDogs Canine Care Center. We provide round-the-clock care for our furry guests and are available to contact you immediately should an emergency arise.
Tour the facility ahead of time
It’s never a bad idea to tour the dog boarding facility that you’re considering for your dog. That way, you can see firsthand the day-to-day operations of the facility, how other dogs act while engaging with each other and staff members, as well as ask any questions that you may have regarding your dog’s experience. A reputable facility should be happy to accommodate your request for a tour. If they don’t, we recommend you move along to a different facility.
Share your dog’s needs
At AllDogs, we understand that each dog has their own set of needs, just like people. Does your dog have a nighttime routine or like to sleep with a special stuffy? Does your dog get nervous around certain other types of dogs or people? Share with us your dog’s specific needs so that we can do our best to ensure your dog has a relaxing stay at our facility.
Bring familiar items
Speaking of a stuffy, bring familiar items for your dog’s stay. If your dog has a special toy, pillow, or blanket, we can place that item in their bed to ensure they have a little piece of home right there with them while you’re apart. Having a familiar item close by can help reduce stress and anxiety for dogs.
Do a trial stay
If you’re planning on boarding your dog for an extended period, like through the holidays or a long trip, consider bringing your dog in for a trial stay for a couple of days during the week or over a weekend. That way, your dog gets a sample of what to expect when staying with us at AllDogs.
Maintain your usual routine
It’s important that when you’re preparing to board your dog or bring them in for doggie daycare that you maintain a normal routine. Dogs can sense when things are off and notice changes in your routine, which may cause them to feel anxious. Therefore, maintain life as usual without any disruptions or changes in you or your dog’s routine.
Stay calm and provide positive reinforcement
Your dog senses your reaction and demeanor at all times when you’re together. Therefore, do not allow yourself to express strong emotions when you get ready to drop off your dog. Instead, remain calm and say your good-byes as you normally would when leaving home. Additionally, if your dog had a good experience while being boarded, reward them with praise and attention or treats when you pick up your dog.
Morristown Doggie Daycare and Boarding
AllDogs Canine Care Center is situated between Jefferson City and Morristown, Tennessee. We welcome dogs of all sizes and personalities, and are accustomed to working with shy or anxious dogs during their stay. To learn more or book a stay for your dog, please call AllDogs at (865) 475-2225.