Boarding Dogs over the Holidays

A Holiday Stress Reducer for Canines and their Owners

 

Make no bones about it!  Dogs are the most popular companion animals in the United States. According to a report from a recent survey, there are an estimated total of 89.7 million dogs living in U.S. households. And with the holiday season rapidly approaching, many dog owners are already thinking about how they want to celebrate these festive occasions, while giving their dogs all the necessary attention they truly deserve.

What makes this time of the year so special is the excitement and anticipation that goes hand-in-hand with making holiday plans. Whether you decide to visit far away relatives or stay at home with friends and family to celebrate the holidays, taking some downtime from work and daily mundane chores can be refreshing. It can significantly boost energy and renew our spirits.

There’s no doubt that the majority of dog owners regard their furry friends as part of their families. Needless to say, keeping their dogs happy and healthy is a priority. Nevertheless, with the tumultuous hustle and bustle and the arduous holiday preparations, along with the possible stream of visitors who will be coming and going, schedules are frequently thrown off kilter. All of these proceedings can be quite exhausting and upsetting, not only for us, but also for our canine companions who will absolutely require extra-special attention.

What’s more, having to worry about the visiting youngsters who may play roughly with the dogs, pulling their tails and fur; the company leaving doors open; or even offering the dogs inappropriate, dangerous treats are sure to get our blood pressures skyrocketing. These added misgivings can quickly put a kibosh on our holiday enjoyment.

If you will be visiting out of town, at first glance taking the dog with you may seem appealing. However, long car drives are exhausting, and dogs can get anxious and sick. Air travel with a pet is costly and arrangements for keeping your dog in the cabin must be made in advance. Additionally not all hotels and motels are pet-friendly.

Granted there are owners who are reticent about boarding their dogs. They worry about how this will affect their beloved pet.  However, since our beloved canines can quickly become overwhelmed by unfamiliar holiday events, boarding them is a solution that can make the holidays a win-win situation for both you and your dogs.   Instead of being pessimistic, be positive and look at boarding as a fun and safe vacation for your pooch.

Boarding can really be lots of fun for your dog.   Trained professionals who thoroughly understand canine behavior and their needs will give your dog all the beneficial playtime, pampering, stimulation, attention and love your dog requires.  Additionally, specially trained professionals are able to handle emergencies and administer medication if necessary. You can relax and ease your mind knowing that your dog is safe and protected.   In fact, boarding your dog can significantly decrease your holiday stress while at the same time giving your dog an opportunity for getting several days of extra special attention.

For example, The Dog Stop is a first-class boarding facility that your dog will enjoy. This highly regarded establishment provides canines under their care with a delightful and positive away-from-home experience. Since dogs are highly intelligent, social critters, they need mental, emotional and physical stimulation to prevent them from getting bored and disconsolate. Your dog will thrive on the individualized attention, which this boarding accommodation offers alongside the highest quality grooming services.

However, once you make the decision that that boarding your dog for the holidays is, in fact, a wonderful idea, make reservations early enough to ensure your dog a space.  Additionally, be sure that your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date because all boarding facilities require their furry guests be fully vaccinated.

Talking about canines and the holiday season – one of the most admired, respected and treasured working canines is SURF DOG Ricochet.  The book is “Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope with the Dog who Inspires Millions.” The holidays are right around the corner, treat yourself to a copy. This delightful book also makes a fabulous holiday gift.

By Jo Singer