Sending your dog to daycare provides enrichment, exercise, and mental excitement. However it can additionally be a stressful experience for the both of you.
It's important to stay calm and favorable at drop-off time, as pets can notice your feelings. Method short separations at home to aid your pet really feel more comfortable with leaving you.
1. Set up a Meet & Greet
The meet and greet is an essential initial step to developing a trusting relationship with pet dog care providers. This conference is typically done in a calmness, neutral setting free from disturbances.
Brimhall discusses that "It's constantly best to leave your dog and leave asap." This is essential for your dog to connect dropping them off with something favorable occurring!
2. Bring Your Pet's Favorite Toys
Bringing your dog's preferred toys to day care is a great means to ease them right into the new atmosphere. It also enables them to play with something acquainted, which can make the experience extra satisfying for them.
If your dog has a special plaything or blanket that scents like home, bring it along. These comfort products can act as a soothing device during difficult times.
3. Bring Your Dog's Routine Food
If your pet needs drug, be sure to load it. Several animal childcare and boarding centers are experienced with carrying out medicines.
Giving your dog with their routine food can aid avoid any type of indigestion or other issues from altering their diet regimen. This is especially crucial for boarding dogs. Likewise, bear in mind to load a favorite bed or covering that scents 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 board dogs near me 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 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.
