How to Choose Boarding vs. Sitting | A Dog Parent’s Checklist
Choose Dog Boarding if your dog:
- Loves to socialize, especially with other dogs
- Does well in a large facility with plenty of animals (i.e. adapts well to a new environment)
- Shares toys with other dogs
- Is healthy and has up-to-date vaccinations (Rabies, DAPP or DA2PP, and Bordetella)
- Does not suffer from an anxiety disorder that would make their visit stressful
- Will be at the facility for a shorter vs. a longer time period (short visits are preferred)
- Pup parent needs extra support (regular updates, photos) when they are away from their pup
Choose Dog Sitting if your dog:
- Is very shy or aggressive around other dogs, cats, or pocket pets
- Does not have their updated vaccinations
- Will be without you for more than a few weeks at a time (lengthy visits)
- Needs constant care and attention due to mobility issues, recent surgery, blindness, or behavioural issues
- Has anxiety around new people or animals
- Suffers from an anxiety disorder or separation issues
How to Sniff Out the Right Fit
Asking questions is important for finding the best care situation for your tail-wagging companion – whether that’s an overnight sitter or a great home-away-from-home for your doggo.
For your possible dog sitter, questions can include:
- Can you accommodate my dog’s needs? (medication, restrictive diet, playtime, exercise and feeding routine)
- Are you certified?
- Are you willing to go to a 24-hr pet hospital if my dog gets sick?
- Do you have any references or reviews to share? How many years of experience do you have as a sitter?
- For overnight stays, do you have a fence (ask for height) so my dog can run around?
- Will I receive regular updates? Will updates be videos or text messages?
- Can we meet ahead of time so you can meet my dog?
For your potential dog boarder, questions can include:
- Can we visit the facility and meet the staff?
- Are staff there 24/7?
- Can my dog get one-on-one attention, as well as group play?
- Is there a veterinarian on-site?
- How much does it cost to board my dog daily and weekly? And what’s included in the price?
- Do you have dog grooming services? Is this an extra charge?
- What happens if my pet gets sick or has a run-in with another animal?
- What type of certification do your facility and staff have?
How Do I Reduce Stress For My Dog While I’m Away?
While nothing beats home for your dog (and you), you may need to choose a pet sitter or a boarding facility for your time apart. It’s completely normal for your four-legged friend to get a little scared or worried once you start packing your suitcase or inviting strangers over for a pet interview. Luckily, there are strategies to help alleviate, or at least reduce, the amount of stress or anxiety your pet endures.
Below are some dog-friendly tips for nipping stress in the bud:
- Bring familiar toys, treats, and other favourite things.
- For a new dog, practice leaving for short periods of time and coming back.
- Try not to be anxious yourself, as your pup will likely pick up on it.
- Provide a comfort item, like an old t-shirt that smells like you or a favourite toy.
- For boarding, take your dog to visit the facility for a half-hour or so a week before you leave to get familiar with the staff and the scents.
- Keep goodbyes short on your departure day (if your dog has separation issues).
Travel Safe Knowing Your Dog is Taken Care Of
Your pet is a big part of your family, and you’re the pet parent, so you know what’s best. Whether your dog thrives in a boarding facility or is more comfortable at home with a sitter, safety and comfort will be among your top priorities.
If you’re looking for Dog Boarding in Leduc County, Contact Country Kennels, a facility that’s 100% pup-approved. We ease your mind when you’re busy or away by providing home-away-from-home pet services for your whole fur-mily.