If you are considering a boarding kennel for the first time, there are some things you should consider. There is actually the American Boarding Kennels Association, which sets certain standards. But don't rule out a kennel if they are not a member. You should contact several kennels and ask lots of questions. Do they require proof of immunization? Is it temperature controlled? Do they have access to outside for walks? Are they kept on wire? (How would you like to walk on wire for days in your bare feet? Many puppy mills utilize these wire cages.) Is there adequate light?
Then I would visit the boarding kennel to see the operation. Does it seem clean enough, is the smell overpowering, is there supervision for the animals?
If you dog has never been kennelled before, you might want to do a trial run of an afternoon stay; then an overnight stay. This will prepare him and let him know he has not been abandoned forever, when you go on a week's vacation and leave him there. I personally believe in talking to my dogs, and telling them what's going on. I'm not absolutely SURE they understand me, but I guess it makes ME feel better!
On the other hand, maybe you want to take your dog with you on your trip. We actually did that a few weeks ago, and it was certainly an adventure! A 9 year old Lab mix (who has never enjoyed riding, because it either means going to the vet or the beauty shop), and two miniature dachshunds. All dogs react differently. Some absolutely LOVE to ride. (If you enjoy taking your dog around town with you on errands, etc., I'd suggest you start when he's too small to know what's going on.) So anyway . . . Sissy, the Lab, took up most of the back seat, and panted for the first two hours. Popeye was OK, but Missy trembled and shook for the first two hours. Then we stopped for gas and to let them out (on leashes, of course--oh, and if your dog is not trained to the lease, do that before going on a road trip! Just sayin'.). So they got some MAJOR relief out in the grass, if you know what I mean. They drank some water -- essential when you traveling -- we got back into the truck and they all laid down and went to sleep. Missy had to be covered up, but they all slept another two hours till we got to our destination.
If you will be staying in hotels, check ahead of time to see if your dog is welcome. Surprisingly, several hotels are dog friendly. Much better than when we first moved to Texas in the 80's, and had to throw a blanket over our Cocker Spaniel's head and carry her in through the hotel lobby,pretending she was a baby.
Traveling with your dog can be hard, and if yours is nervous in the car, I would suggest you speak with your veterinarian prior to the trip about medications that could help. We have given Dramamine to our dogs in the past for motion sickness. There are also special treats you can give your dog for a calming effect. They have natural ingredients that help the dog to stay calm. I give these to my dogs at times like the 4th of July. They are very scared of fireworks and their sound effects. They're also scared of thunderstorms, and the treats seem to help some then as well. There are a few different brands. You can get them from pet stores or order from a pet supply. I have some called Ultra Calm Biscuits that I got through www.DrsFosterSmith.com .
Bring your dog's regular food and water bowls so he's comfortable at mealtime. He will also need his own bed or special blanket (Popeye!) and/or toy.
And if you decide to take your dog on a trip or vacation with you, remember that he's there! He is on vacation, too, and needs to be played with just as he would at home.
The goal here is to have a successful trip, a relaxing vacation for you AND your pet. As always, if you have a thought, helpful hint, a question, please leave a comment, and I will get back to you. And PLEASE go to the top of the page, click on "Follow", and register to follow my blog. Once again, thanks for stopping by; Happy Tails, Everyone!!!!!!
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