Leaving your four-legged family member behind when you travel can bring up a lot of emotions—and plenty of separation anxiety (often more for the humans than the hounds!). Whether your pup is joining us for a weekend getaway or a structured board-and-train program, a little bit of preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free transition.
Here are 5 simple ways to set your dog up for a happy, relaxed, and successful first stay:
1. Keep Your Departure Low-Key Dogs are incredibly intuitive and feed directly off our energy. If you give a long, emotional goodbye with a worried tone of voice, your dog will think, “Uh oh, something bad is happening.” When it’s time to drop them off, keep your energy cheerful, confident, and brief. A quick scratch behind the ears and a happy “See you soon!” tells your dog that they are safe and this is an exciting adventure.
2. Bring Familiar Scents The sense of smell is a dog’s primary way of navigating the world. Packing a small t-shirt or a light blanket that smells like home (and you!) can provide immense comfort when they are settling into their suite for the first night. Just make sure it’s an item you don’t mind getting dirty or potentially chewed!
3. Pack Regular Food and High-Value Treats A sudden change in diet combined with a exciting new environment can easily lead to an upset stomach. Always pack enough of your dog’s regular daily food for the entire stay, plus a couple of extra days just in case your travel is delayed. Feel free to pack their absolute favorite high-value treats, too—our team loves using them to reward good behavior and build a fast friendship!
4. Burn Off Energy Before Drop-Off A tired dog is a relaxed dog. Before you bring your pup to our facility, take them for a long walk, a rigorous game of fetch, or a good mental enrichment session. Expelling that baseline physical energy beforehand helps their nervous system settle down much faster once they arrive in their temporary home.
5. Share Their Routine & Quirks Does your dog prefer to eat their kibble with a splash of warm water? Are they afraid of thunder? Do they have a specific cue word they respond to for training? Let us know! The more details you share about your dog’s unique personality, quirks, and daily schedules, the better our staff can replicate their comfort zone.
Ready to book your pup’s next staycation? We treat every guest like a member of our own family. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our facility or to book a trial daycare day before your big trip!