Shared
Responsibility
Now that you have chosen a boarding facility, you
need to understand that boarding is a shared responsibility &,
as a responsible pet owner, there are a few things you must attend
to before bringing Fido in to board.
Make certain all immunizations are current, including
the parainfluenza vaccine for protection against tracheobronchitis
(canine cough). Your pet should be free of internal & external
parasites & not have been exposed to any contagious diseases.
It is recommended that you do not feed Fido for a least 4 hours
prior to kenneling, to minimize the possibility of stomach upset.
Boarding at a kennel is the best alternative but separation
from master &/or being in strange surroundings can produce stress
in your dog. Stress can result in lowered resistance & sometime
even temporary changes in behaviour. Be sure to inform the kennel
proprietor of any special idiosyncrasies or medical problems Fido
may have, such as a history of epilepsy or fear of thunder, etc.,
that may aid her in keeping Fido healthy & happy.
Dogs should be prepared psychologically for boarding.
It’s best, of course, to begin with a pup as soon as the immunization
program is complete since puppies can learn very quickly to enjoy
boarding. Some kennels offer “daycare” services, enabling
you to leave your dog for a few hours at a time. Or, get Fido used
to an extended stay by sending him out one weekend at a time, prior
to that planned trip. This is an excellent way to introduce your
dog to boarding. After just a few visits, Fido should accept a kennel
as a normal way of life.
The psychological preparation of a dog for boarding
(& also to help him develop a healthy personality) includes
getting him used to new people & experiences (socialization).
This is probably most easily accomplished by taking him though obedience
classes & occasionally boarding him. Naturally, a dog who is
relaxed about boarding is more likely to board well.
It almost goes to say, the pet owner should not moan
or cry over his dog in the kennel office upon leaving him, nor should
he bring out the suitcases at home the day before the trip. You
should understand that both of these things can cause the dog to
become unnecessarily upset.
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