1. What should I do if my dog gets sick while in your care?
If your dog becomes ill, we will place them in a well-ventilated isolation room and immediately inform you so you can pick them up. In case of an emergency, we will contact you first and, if necessary, transport your dog to our supervising veterinarian at The Country Animal Clinic.
2. How are "meet & sniffs" sessions conducted?
We begin by letting your dog explore the facility for a few minutes to help them feel at ease. Then, we introduce them to one of our calmest dogs behind a gate. If your dog shows no signs of aggression or anxiety, we will gradually introduce them to the other dogs, one by one.
3. What to Anticipate When Reuniting with Your Dog After Boarding?
Bringing your dog home after her first boarding experience can reveal some surprising changes in her behavior. It is common for dogs to exhibit different behaviors as they readjust to their familiar surroundings.
This temporary shift is usually a normal part of re-acclimating. While it is often just a matter of giving her time to settle in, being prepared can help you recognize when she needs extra care or simply space. Here is what you need to know to help your dog transition smoothly back to her home environment.
4. Why Is My Dog Eating More Than Usual After Boarding?
It is normal for dogs to exhibit an increased appetite when they come back home from a boarding facility. If your dog seems more ravenous than usual in the days following her return, it is usually nothing to worry about. This change in appetite does not necessarily mean there was an issue with her food intake during her stay.
Dogs often work up a large appetite during their time in kennels due to increased activity and playtime. They burn more calories and may not eat as much while boarding, partly because they are in an unfamiliar environment. Once back home, they might make up for the extra calories they burned. If your dog’s increased appetite persists beyond a few days, it is a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for reassurance.
5. Why Is My Dog Drinking More Water After Boarding?
It’s quite common for dogs to drink more water when they return home from boarding. If your dog seems especially thirsty in the days following her return, it is usually because she feels more comfortable drinking in her familiar environment. In some cases, she might also prefer the taste of your home’s water compared to what was available at the kennel.
If your dog’s increased water intake continues or seems excessive, it is a good idea to monitor her and consult with your veterinarian to ensure there are no underlying problems.
6. Is It Normal for My Dog to Sleep Excessively After Boarding?
It is quite normal for your dog to sleep more than usual when she returns home from boarding. A well-managed boarding facility ensures that dogs are actively engaged in exercise and play, which can leave them feeling quite tired. This is a positive sign that your dog was well-cared for and stimulated during her stay.
The increased sleep is usually just a result of her needing to recuperate from all the activity. However, if her lethargy persists beyond a few days, it’s wise to consult your veterinarian to check for any possible health issues.
7. Is it common for dogs to return home extremely thirsty after daycare?
Yes, it's very common for dogs to appear extremely thirsty after returning home from dog daycare.
This is often due to a combination of factors, including increased activity, excitement, and potentially a difference in water availability or taste at the daycare facility compared to home.
8. What should I expect after picking up the dog from dog boarding?
After picking up your dog from boarding, expect some temporary changes in behavior as they adjust back to their home routine. This might include increased sleep, changes in appetite, and potentially clingy or distant behavior, it's possible your dog's stool may be softer or loose due to the stress of boarding Most of these changes are normal and should resolve within a few days.
9. Are the dogs separated by size?
Yes, by size and also by temperament