Does your puppy chew, bark excessively, or try to escape while you’re gone? These may be signs of separation anxiety. Of course, when your fur baby can’t stand to be away from you, it’s hard to consider going on a vacation or business trip. So you may have to consider boarding a dog with separation anxiety since it’s only sometimes possible to travel with pets
There are ways to make boarding more comfortable for your pooch by easing them into the situation. For example, create familiar surroundings with pre-boarding visits, favorite toys, and reminders of you. Likewise, in-home pet care is an option for anxious animals. It can be heartbreaking to leave your fur baby behind, so learning how to ease the separation can bring you peace of mind.
Create Familiarity
Pets are more comfortable in recognizable surroundings. So, you can get ready by visiting the facilities before boarding a dog with separation anxiety. For example, take your pup on a tour of the location or do a single overnight visit before an extended trip. Once you’ve found a high-quality border, return there whenever you plan on going out of town. If possible, use the same location for boarding, grooming, and doggie daycare to create familiarity. After repeated visits, your dog learns that you will eventually come back.
What to Bring
When boarding a dog with separation anxiety, pack a bag of everyday items, including their regular food, treats, and medicine. Likewise, send a few favorite toys and balls. Also, pups love the smell of their owner. So, toss in something with your scent such as a shirt or pillowcase. These familiar items provide comfort for your puppy while you’re away.
In-home Pet Care
Another option is hiring someone to care for your dog at home because the familiarity of home will bring comfort. A good pet-sitter tailors their service to your pet’s needs. For example, ask them to follow the routine for walking and meal times. With in-home services, your fur baby gets showered with attention and one-on-one cuddle time with a human, so they continue to feel loved and cared for while you’re away.
Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Separation Anxiety is when dogs show signs of extreme stress the whole time they are apart from their preferred owners. For instance, they whine and pace as you’re getting ready to go. When left alone, anxious dogs may bark or howl excessively, have accidents in the house, or engage in destructive behavior such as chewing or digging around doors. Still, it’s important to distinguish between anxious behavior and typical doggie shenanigans. All puppies will chew on things and have accidents sometimes, especially when they are young and new to potty training. However, anxiety manifests in extremely negative behaviors. Anxious dogs will follow one family member from room to room and become upset when they are separated.
Is it okay to leave a dog with separation anxiety alone?
Dogs are social animals. So, they may feel uncomfortable when no one else is around for long periods. Still, leaving dogs alone is okay if you make the proper preparations. Work on independence training with your pup to gradually build confidence and learn to accept being left alone. Socializing your puppy from a young age also lessens anxiety later in life.
Boarding a Dog with Separation Anxiety
We understand how hard it is for dogs to be away from their owners. That’s why our staff takes extra care when boarding a dog with separation anxiety. At Tarheel Total Pet Care, we create a calm, relaxing atmosphere and comfort your pet with round-the-clock care. Our goal is to help pets to feel like they are on vacation at an animal resort. Reserve your pooch’s next vacation at Tarheel Total Pet Care — call 908-234-0644.
