Separation Anxiety Solutions: How We Help Dogs Adjust to Boarding

Leaving your furry friend behind can be tough for both of you. Dogs are social creatures who thrive on companionship, and a change in routine can cause anxiety. If you’re worried about how your dog will handle their stay at a boarding facility, The Bark Park Pet Resort and Daycare can help.

We understand that separation anxiety is a real concern for pet owners. That’s why we offer a variety of solutions and techniques to make sure your dog has a comfortable and stress-free stay.

Understanding Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common condition that occurs when a dog becomes distressed when left alone. Signs of separation anxiety can include:

• Excessive barking or whining
• Destructive behavior, such as chewing furniture or digging
• Pacing
• Accidents in the house

Creating a Smooth Transition

The key to a successful boarding experience is making the transition as smooth as possible for your dog. Here’s how The Bark Park Pet Resort and Daycare can help:

• Meet and Greet: Schedule a meet and greet with our staff before your dog’s stay. This allows your dog to become familiar with our facility, staff, and routines in a relaxed setting.
• Home Away from Home Comforts: We provide a variety of comforts to make your dog feel right at home, including spacious kennels, cozy bedding, and access to play areas. 
• Structured Activities and Playtime: We offer playtime and enrichment activities to keep your dog physically and mentally stimulated. This helps to alleviate boredom and anxiety.
• Experienced and Caring Staff: Our staff is passionate about animals and experienced in caring for dogs with separation anxiety. They provide individualized attention and support to make sure your dog feels safe and secure.

At-Home Preparation Tips

Helping your dog adjust to boarding starts at home. By gradually introducing them to the idea of being alone and familiarizing them with some routines they’ll experience during boarding, you can set them up for a successful and stress-free stay. 

Here are a few things you can do:

• Get them comfortable with a crate: Consider introducing your dog to a crate at home well before their stay. Start by leaving the crate open with the door removed and filled with cozy bedding and a favorite toy. Gradually increase the time your dog spends inside the crate with the door closed, rewarding them with treats or praise for calm behavior.
• Practice short periods of alone time: Build your dog’s confidence in being alone by gradually increasing the time you leave them on their own. Start with just a few minutes at a time, leaving them with a toy or treat to keep them occupied. As they become more comfortable, gradually extend the duration.
• Create routines: Establish routines for your dog’s day at home. This could include setting consistent meal, walk, and play times.

Additional Techniques to Ease Anxiety

• Desensitization Training: This involves gradually exposing your dog to triggers associated with separation—such as putting on your coat or picking up your keys—in a positive way.
• Supplements and Medications: In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend calming supplements or medications to help manage your dog’s anxiety.

Addressing separation anxiety before your dog’s stay at any boarding facility is important. If you need help, ask your veterinarian for advice or enlist the help of a trainer.

A Stress-Free Boarding Experience for Your Dog

At The Bark Park Pet Resort and Daycare, we’re committed to providing your dog with a loving and supportive environment.  Our separation anxiety solutions and techniques are designed to ensure your dog has a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

Contact us today to schedule a meet and greet and discuss your dog’s boarding needs. We look forward to giving your furry friend a comfortable and fun home away from home!