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Ducktown Lodge
Dog Boarding Cumming, GA
Published in: Blog

Should I Feel Guilty When Boarding My Dog

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Dog Boarding When I Go On Vacation?

Do Dogs Sense Our Emotions About Boarding?

Let’s begin by answering a question that often bothers dog owners who feel guilty about boarding their pet – does our dog sense when we feel bad about their forthcoming stay in a boarding kennel? Evidence confirms that dogs indeed notice changes related to travel, such as the packing of suitcases or planning of itineraries, through altered scents and routines, suggesting your dog may realize when you’re leaving.
To ease guilt about dog boarding,  ensure your dog has a positive experience by carefully planning and choosing a reliable facility.  Choosing a boarding facility with enriching activities, a safe environment, and attentive staff can significantly reduce worry. Consider low-key dog boarding for personalized stays. Brief trials, familiar items, and reassuring communication can also help alleviate guilt.  Dogs live in the moment and my experience with dog parents departure is that our guests are happy and content. A thriving boarding kennel is essentially a summer camp for dogs. Campers should have frequent playtimes, face-to-face contact with the staff, and interact regularly with other dogs (unless your dog prefers being alone). During their stay, dogs should be fed on a regular schedule with portions appropriate for their size and weight.
Some dog boarding facilities offer detailed daily itineraries, including:
  • Training exercises: Whether your dog is a puppy or needs to brush up on some skills, many kennels have staff to teach basic obedience skills, such as “sit” or “leave it.”
  • Playtime: To ensure dogs enjoy their stay and get adequate exercise, kennels organize play sessions and human interaction.
Some “green flags” that your dog has enjoyed their kennel staycation include:
  • They’re tired from a day filled with playtime and healthy interaction
  • They linger just a bit longer to say goodbye to a particular caregiver
  • You don’t see signs of distress, such as excessive panting, or a stiff body
  • They’re just as healthy as they were when you dropped them off, meaning they’re free of bruises, cuts, and scratches
    • Their paws are free from dried urine or feces

Our mission is to help you and your dog have the best relationship possible.  We believe that starts by training dogs and pet parents in obedience, good manners, and appropriate behavior.

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