Sending your pet dog to daycare provides enrichment, exercise, and psychological stimulation. But it can likewise be a stressful experience for the both of you.
It's important to stay tranquil and favorable at drop-off time, as pet dogs can notice your emotions. Practice brief splittings up at home to help your pet dog really feel more comfortable with leaving you.
1. Arrange a Meet & Greet
The meet and greet is a crucial first step to establishing a trusting connection with pet dog care suppliers. This conference is usually done in a calm, neutral setting free from diversions.
Brimhall clarifies that "It's constantly best to drop off your dog and leave immediately." This is crucial for your dog to link dropping them off with something favorable taking place!
2. Bring Your Dog's Favorite Toys
Bringing your canine's preferred toys to day care is a great way to alleviate them right into the brand-new setting. It additionally allows them to play with something familiar, which can make the experience more pleasurable for them.
If your canine has a special plaything or covering that smells like home, bring it along. These comfort products can function as a relaxing device throughout difficult times.
3. Bring Your Pet dog's Routine Food
If your pet dog needs medicine, make sure to pack it. Numerous animal day care and boarding facilities are experienced with administering medicines.
Offering your pet dog with their routine food can assist prevent any stomach upset or other issues from changing their diet. This is specifically vital for boarding pet dogs. Likewise, keep in mind to pack a favorite bed or blanket that smells 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 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 boarding dog 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.
