At Highland Animal Hospital we understand how overwhelming it can be to find just the right place to care for your dog while you're away from home. This is especially true if your pet is unwell, recovering from an accident or surgery, or is elderly and requires extra care, but that's where medical boarding comes in.
Medical Pet Boarding
Medical boarding is a form of overnight care for dogs and cats in need of a little extra TLC while their owners are away. Medical boarding is typically provided at a veterinary office where staff are trained and ready to provide care whenever your pup needs it.
Whether your pooch is recovering from surgery or an injury, on medications for health conditions, or just in need of extra love and attention to stay comfortable, medical boarding can be an ideal solution.
What You Need to Know About Boarding Your Dog
Whether your dog needs standard boarding or requires the advanced care of medical boarding there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing where to leave your beloved pet.
Learn & Understand the Boarding Facility's Rules & Policies
Before boarding your dog at a new facility, inquire about their policies, procedures, and services. For instance, what kind of food do they feed the dogs, what items can you bring from home (toys, blankets, etc.), what their emergency procedures are, and if they can administer your dog's medication?
Asking about the policies, procedures, and services the facilities offer can help you determine the best home away from home for your dog.
Make Sure Your Dog's Vaccines Are Up-To-Date
Although each dog boarding kennel has its own criteria for maintenance, all reputable boarding facilities have one thing in common, your dog's vaccinations must be up to date. They will require proof that your dog has received all of the required immunizations because many common dog illnesses and diseases can spread quickly in kennel settings. This helps keep your pooch and the other dogs at the facility safe. Ask the kennel in advance which immunizations they require your pup to have.
Visit the Facility Beforehand
Kennels that house a large number of pets can quickly become unkempt. While it is impossible to keep a boarding facility completely sterile, a high-quality boarding facility will look and smell clean. So, before booking your dog's stay, make sure the kennel is kept organized and clean.
Stay Calm & Positive When Dropping Off Your Dog
Dogs are experts at reading their pet parents' emotions. Your dog can tell if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying goodbye. This will be reflected in your dog's mood and behavior, making it more difficult for them to relax once you leave. Keep things simple, short, and positive to ease the transition.
Be Prepared for a Temporary Change in Behavior When Your Dog Returns Home
It's critical to understand that your dog may act strangely in the first few days after returning from the kennel. Your dog may be clingy, lethargic, or suffering from diarrhea. They may even consume more food or drink than usual. This, however, is a normal reaction to your dog's excitement at returning home. However, if things do not improve after a few days, contact your veterinarian.
Trust Your Instincts When Choosing a Boarding Facility
We believe that trusting your instincts is a good place to start when looking for a kennel for your dog. If you don't feel at ease in one location, try another. If you don't agree with their policy, look around at other kennels until you find one you completely trust.
Medical Boarding for Dogs in Augusta
At Highland Animal Hospital, we provide high-quality medical boarding for cats and dogs. While you are away, we can provide your pet with a warm and comfortable home away from home. We provide temperature-controlled kennels, a separate boarding area for cats and dogs, playtime with staff, daily walks, and other services.
We will be sure to administer your pup's medications and treatments on time and treat your pet as if they are part of our own family.
Learn More About Dog & Cat Medical Boarding
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.