Whilst studies do suggest that dogs miss their owners whilst in kennels, this shouldn't put you off. Your dog is bound to miss you whilst you're away from them, however, this doesn't mean that they're depressed. Choosing the right kennels will ensure that your pooch is kept busy throughout the day.
It is uncommon for dogs to be left in a boarding facility. They start to eat less than usual due to anxiety and stress. They face this kind of trauma because dogs are shy and highly attached to their owners. They usually don't feel comfortable there because a boarding facility is hosting many animals.
It may be hard leaving your dog at a boarding kennel, but most dogs are excited about their stay and see it as a rewarding experience. Many dogs settle into boarding kennels quickly and come home after their adventure happy and tired from plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
This is normal and to be expected. After all, the boarding environment is very different to what life is like at home and it can take your pet a few days to get back to normal.
Being in unfamiliar surroundings without their most trusted humans coupled with disruptions to their routine are major triggers for dogs with separation anxiety, so jumping right into boarding isn't a great idea if it can be avoided.
If you're setting out on an epic adventure this summer with your dog as your travel companion, you might wonder – if humans can get homesick can dogs get homesick during travel, too? The answer is yes, they definitely can. Just like humans, dogs get used to their surroundings.
Initially, boarding can be stressful for a dog. This is particularly so in a boarding facility. They may be a bit depressed, which can include symptoms like not eating. With that said, your dog will adjust over time—especially when they are receiving care from caring and well-trained professionals.
Time passes
Owners often wonder if dogs have a sense of time passing and if our dogs miss us when we are gone. Well, the answer to that is a definite yes. When dogs in one study were left home alone for varying periods of time, they responded with differing levels of enthusiasm on their owner's return.
It's not unusual for dogs to grieve the loss of a person they've bonded with who is no longer present. While they might not understand the full extent of human absence, dogs do understand the emotional feeling of missing someone who's no longer a part of their daily lives.
If you are going out of town on vacation it is understandably a little nerve wracking worrying that your dog will think he's been abandoned. And for a pet who has separation anxiety this can be extra concerning. Dogs are social animals and having their person leave them will certainly have an effect on them initially.
A boarding stay can be a stressful experience for any pet, even one who has been to stay in a boarding facility in the past. This also remains true if you use the same provider that you have previously as your pet is unlikely to remember the facility, and the people and certainly the animals are likely to be different.
It's normal to feel guilty about leaving your furry friend alone. But, as long as you're still getting their exercise in (especially before you leave) and don't make a big deal about leaving, then your canine companion should do just fine.
If you haven't boarded your dog before, you probably don't realize that she may seem a little different for a few days after you collect her and bring her home. This is often completely normal and just a reaction to her readjusting to her surroundings.
The truth is that your dog will almost always remember you, however long you've been apart. Dogs don't forget their beloved owners, even after months or even years apart.
If your dog seems a little more tired than usual the first few days after boarding, don't worry too much about it. The thrill of seeing you again and the extra flurry of activity surrounding homecoming may mean your dog needs more shut-eye than usual.
Kennel Syndrome is the behavior that a dog assumes in survival mode. That means dominant or aggressive dogs can turn sweet and submissive in order to get the food or shelter they need to survive, as well a submissive dog may turn dominant in order to gain respect or shelter.
Try a technique called counterconditioning: leave them a special treat each time you leave that calms their nerves. Treats that entertain dogs for longer amounts of time, like food-filled toys or durable chew toys, not only act as a distraction, but they're also something your dog can look forward to while you're away.
A busy dog is a happy dog, so you can help your dog deal with separation anxiety by offering him plenty to do while you're gone. Use puzzle toys, treat toys, KONGS, and more to help him cope. You can also help prepare him for being alone by reserving special, high-value treats and toys for times you head out.
Feeling guilty about leaving your pet throughout the day is a sign that you care. You may experience guilt because you love and care for your pet and do not like the thought of them being home by their self without you.
The American Kennel Club says changing owners can be traumatic for dogs. Losing their owners can make dogs stop eating, lose weight, lose interest in physical activity, and exhibit symptoms of canine depression. That's why you must take any decision to re-home dogs seriously.
DON'T stay away too long.
Most experts agree you shouldn't leave your adult dog alone for more than eight to 10 hours, but some dogs (especially ones with small bladders) can't last that long.