It can be tough finding a place to board your dog, especially if they are a senior. Older dogs typically require more care, and a closer watch, than they do when they are younger. Today, our Kingman vets share some advice on how to find the right boarding facility for your senior dog.
Dog Boarding for Senior Dogs
If you have been looking for a boarding facility for your senior dog, it may be hard to ensure they're going to get the care they need.
Boarding senior dogs is always difficult, as you don't just have to worry about leaving your pet. Senior dogs present their own set of challenges medically, and something could go wrong in someone else's care, especially if they are on medications. We want you to be confident in the facility you trust to care for your beloved dog, and we want to share some things to consider to help you find the right fit.
Check the Rules & Policies
Before boarding your dog at any facility, you need to be aware of their rules, regulations, and policies (including what kinds of services they offer to dogs boarding with them). You should also inquire about whether they can offer specialty food for your senior dog if you don't plan on providing them with food.
Senior dog boarding (or geriatric dog boarding) differs from boarding a healthy, middle-aged pup. Be sure to ask how they can care for an elderly dog and ensure they will get the level of care they deserve.
Be sure your dog has the appropriate vaccinations needed to stay at the facility so there are no surprises when you go to drop off your pooch. Asking about the policies, procedures, and services the facilities offer can help you determine the best home away from home for your dog.
Visit the Facility Ahead of Time
Kennels that are housing many animals can get messy quickly. Any high-quality kennel will still look and smell clean and well-kept regardless of the number of residents they have at the time. To make sure a prospective boarding facility is up to snuff, visit the kennel to make sure it is clean and organized before letting your dog stay there.
It is also beneficial to find a facility with cameras that keep an eye on your dog at all times in case something were to happen, especially if you have a geriatric dog. This is ideal just in case your elderly pet endures any unforeseen incident.
Trust Your Instincts
We believe that trusting your instincts is a great first step when choosing a boarding facility for your dog. If you don't think it feels like a good place for your dog, keep looking until you find one that you think will best suit your canine companion. Even if a facility looks nice and is well-kept, if they have a policy you don't like, look around until you find one that you can trust completely.
Before & After Your Dog's Stay
Keep Your Emotions in Check
Dogs are good at reading the emotions of their owners. Your pooch will be able to tell if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying goodbye. Your dog's mood and behavior will reflect this, making it harder for them to relax and causing separation anxiety. To make the separation easier, keep things simple, short, and positive.
Always make sure you inform the boarding facility of any issues or health concerns your senior dog has, as well as their eating, drinking, behavior, and exercise habits. This will ensure that your pet is receiving the care they need to live a typical day while away from home, which should help put them at ease.
Behavioral Changes After Boarding
You should realize that during the first few days after your dog returns home, they may not behave like their normal self. Your pup might be clingy, lethargic, or even have diarrhea. They may even eat or drink more than usual. However, this is a normal reaction caused by your dog's excitement about coming home. But, if things don't settle down after a few days, contact your vet.
Dog Boarding for Elderly Dogs at Cerbat Cliffs Animal Hospital
We offer high-quality overnight boarding services for dogs and cats in Kingman. Our medical boarding services are also ideal for dogs with health complications and senior dogs that may require extra, specialized care. Dog boarding for elderly dogs shouldn't be left to anyone. Our team is experienced in caring for geriatric pets, and we will make sure your pet always gets the care they need and deserve.
We are proud to be able to provide your animal companion with a comfortable, welcoming, and warm home away from home while you're away. Some of the services we offer include medical boarding, private kennels, and an outdoor play area for dogs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition or boarding needs.