If you plan to leave your home for a vacation or work trip, you can trust their well-being to a pet boarding facility. Even when you know your dog will receive the proper meals, sleep, and attention, you might worry about their separation anxiety while you’re away. Luckily, there are some steps you can to take to alleviate much of that stress for your pup.

How to Make Boarding Easier for Your Dog

1. Schedule a Trial Stay

If your dog has never stayed the night anywhere but in your home, they may struggle to sleep and stress out over your absence. To help them learn the sounds, smells, and routines of this environment, try boarding them overnight as a trial run.

They can meet other dogs and learn to socialize in the kennel setting. They can also meet the staff and quickly find out that all these people care for their well-being. They can also learn how mealtimes and bedtimes work. Dropping them off for a longer stay after this trial will prove much more successful when they can remember some of the routines and friendly staff members.

2. Bring Something From Home

While your dogs will receive lots of attention and compassionate treatment while boarded, they may feel out of place and nervous. Bringing a toy from home or something that they know and love can reduce their confusion and help ground them with a little slice of home. Additionally, a blanket or shirt of yours can help them feel like you’re near, promoting a sensation of safety.

3. Drop Them Off Early

If you can, drop your dog off in the early morning. They’ll have all day to learn the schedule and grow accustomed to the boarding facility before bedtime. Try to limit your goodbye time as well. Prolonging this moment can alert your dog to your longer absence. Instead, say goodbye just like you would when you leave for the grocery store, and they’ll adjust more quickly.

They can also participate in more activities when they arrive early. They can run and play with the other dogs, letting out their energy in order to enjoy a more restful night of sleep. Exercise also helps take their mind off of any loneliness, and the excitement will reduce boredom.

For pet boarding with a personal touch, trust your dog with TLC Pet Care Centers in Cincinnati, OH. For over 40 years, the compassionate team has provided pet vaccinations, dental care, and boarding every day of the year. Call (513) 683-2300 for their East location or (513) 825-4011 for their West location. Visit their website to learn more about their extensive pet boarding amenities.