Considering the Benefits of Dog Day Care
October 1, 2009
Whether you are busy working or enjoying your retirement, there will be times when you will be away from your home for long periods and are unable to take your dog with you. Older dogs can be especially attached to their owners and may suffer stress if left alone for more even than a few hours. Us humans are even more high maintenance and may need a break from our dog—we’re a little more selfish than our unconditionally-loving companions. These are all situations you may want to consider dog day care.
What Does Day Care Involve?
Think of this as babysitting for dogs. Whether it’s in house care or at a fully staffed commercial venture with many other dogs, day care can provide everything from dog walking to professional dog training. Older dogs may require specific attention regarding arthritis or recovering from injury, and therefore, attention from a good dog trainer or handler is the best option when you are away.
Know Your Options
Daycare providers are usually listed in newspapers or can be found online. It is always best to check out a few places first and ensure that they can provide for any specific requirements for older dogs, such as diet, ramps, and harnesses. Put some real thought into whether your dog will be happy there, as no one knows your pet better than you. If there are other customers there, when you visit, take time to ask them their opinion of the place.
You will want to make sure that the facilities are adequate, with enough space to play and a secure fence around the site. Other important factors will include private areas where your dog can rest and plenty of options for your dog to stay entertained. Check to see what the dog to staff ratio is. It should be no more than 10-15. Experience is, of course, essential, so ask how long the staff has worked with dogs. Find out if they will interact with the animals or just provide basic supervision.
Put Your Worries Aside
Professional dog care sites will have staff with many years of experience in handling dogs of all breeds and ages. They will be trained in dealing with outbursts of aggression and usually have an agreement with a local vet in case of any emergencies.
Always remember to provide proof any vaccinations or medication that you dog may have had or be currently taking. This ensures that no sick animals can pass on parasites or infections.
Trust Your Own Judgement
Leaving your dog with a stranger can be a hard move but if you have looked into a site properly before hand and remain happy with it you have probably made the correct choice. After you have used a site once, try to gauge the mood of your dog afterwards. This will be a good guide in deciding whether or not to use the company again.
Dogs never quite leave their childhood behind, even once old age becomes an issue. Leaving them in the right hands can go a long way to letting you properly enjoy your vacation. Who knows—your dog might actually enjoy the time away from you and the chance to play with someone else—though they’d never tell you that to your face.
They like you too much to hurt your feelings.
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