How to Reduce a Dog's Stress During a Boarding Stay

Dogs are comforted by their daily routine. Changes in this routine, especially a big change like a boarding stay, can result in stress and stress-related illness. There are ways to make your dog more comfortable during a boarding stay and in turn reduce his stress level. A little preparation before a boarding visit can help ease your dog into the change, and will ensure that you have a happy and healthy pet waiting for your return.

Things You'll Need

  • Bedding
  • T-shirt or other item of clothing
  • Dog food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Familiarize your dog with the boarding kennel several weeks prior to her stay. If the dog kennel has an open environment--one in which dogs play in groups during the day--bring your dog in for a day or two of play prior to its stay. If your dog will board for more than five days, plan a trial run of one night prior to the longer stay. Familiarizing your dog with the environment and the people she will be spending time with will go a long way in reducing her fear and stress during her stay.

    • 2

      Prepare your dog’s meals in advance and send them with him for the stay (or merely provide feeding instructions). Making sure your dog is fed his regular diet will help reduce the potential for stomach upset. If your dog has a history of stress-induced diarrhea, discuss this with your veterinarian prior to your dog’s visit. The vet may be able to make recommendations to reduce the risk of diarrhea.

    • 3

      Bring your dog’s bed to the kennel when she's being boarded. Having her own bed or bedding there helps the dog establish a comfortable place and routine within the new environment.

    • 4

      For any long stays, leave an item with your dog that smells like you. An old T-shirt you won't mind seeing destroyed or stained works wonders in providing a small piece of comfort. You may also want to consider leaving a Kong or some type of busy toy for your dog to play with during down time. (Never send a toy or other item with your dog that could potentially be a choking hazard.)

    • 5

      Make the kennel staff aware of any special needs your dog may have, or routines he has to follow. Provide this information in writing so the staff can refer to it as needed.