Are you preparing for your long-awaited annual vacation but feeling concerned about leaving your cherished pet alone at home? It’s completely natural to experience guilt when leaving a pet behind, particularly if they suffer from separation anxiety.
If you require assistance in locating a reputable pet boarding facility in Plano, Texas, you’ve come to the right place. At Pets Are Inn, we specialize in addressing and managing your pet’s anxiety prior to your travels. For further insights and information, we invite you to continue reading below.
What is separation anxiety, and how can you tell if your pet is experiencing it?
Separation anxiety can affect both dogs and cats, causing them extreme distress and behavioral issues when they are left alone. This condition can arise when pets are left at home or in pet boarding facilities.
The signs of separation anxiety can vary. In dogs, it may involve destructive behavior, such as chewing and tearing objects apart. Some dogs may howl and bark incessantly, while others may whine, urinate, and defecate throughout the house, even if they are typically house-trained. Cats, on the other hand, may exhibit destructive behavior, moodiness, or seek out small hiding spots. They might display unusual behaviors like excessive grooming, scratching furniture, vomiting, or eliminating outside of the litter box, even if they are litter-trained. They may also show a lack of interest in eating.
Recognizing these signs can help you identify if your pet is experiencing separation anxiety. If you notice any of these behaviors, it’s essential to address the issue and find suitable solutions to help your pet feel more comfortable and secure when left alone.
Here are some of the ways that you can do to make your pet comfortable and anxiety-free as much as possible.
Consider kennel-free and cage-free boarding facilities
Consider kennel-free and cage-free boarding facilities when looking for pet care options in Plano, Texas, and nearby areas. One such facility to consider is Pets Are Inn. Unlike traditional boarding facilities and kennels that accommodate numerous dogs simultaneously,
Pets Are Inn selects ideal family homes to host and care for your pet while you’re away. This approach ensures a quieter and less stressful environment, especially for pets with anxiety. Unlike overcrowded kennels, which may be understaffed during holidays, our host families provide personalized attention and care for your pet.
If your dog experiences anxiety, it’s best to avoid traditional boarding facilities as they may struggle to adjust to the new environment and feel uncomfortable during their stay. Additionally, these facilities may charge higher fees without adequately meeting your dog’s needs.
Furthermore, traditional kennels with a high concentration of dogs in limited space can pose risks of disease transmission, including ticks and fleas. Before choosing a pet boarding facility or kennel, it is essential to conduct thorough research.
Read reviews, tour the facility, and ensure that they require mandatory vaccinations to prioritize the safety and well-being of all pets in their care. For a reliable and enjoyable boarding experience for your dog, consider choosing a trusted company like Pets Are Inn.
Keep your pet distracted
Before leaving your pet at a boarding facility, it’s important to keep them distracted. While you may have the urge to say goodbye, doing so can alert your pet and make them aware that you’re about to leave, triggering their anxiety.
To avoid this, provide your pet with a toy or treat to keep them occupied. By diverting their attention, they won’t notice your impending departure. Seeing you leave can intensify their anxiety and make them feel nervous. Therefore, keeping them distracted will help them remain unaware that you’ll be away for a few days.
Provide them with their favorite items
Before leaving your pet at a boarding facility, it’s helpful to provide them with their favorite items that bring them comfort. This can include their bed and favorite toys.
These familiar items create a sense of security and give them a safe place to retreat to when they feel anxious and scared. Bringing along their favorite toy or bone can provide them with something familiar to play with or carry around during moments of anxiety.
Be sure to inform the staff about your pet’s anxiety and provide them with any necessary instructions. Leaving a shirt or item that carries your scent can also help your pet feel connected to home while you’re on vacation. These items provide comfort and a sense of familiarity, helping your pet cope with their situation and reduce anxiety.
Start anxiety training early
It’s important to train your pet to socialize and become comfortable with the idea of being separated from you. Start training them early to help them acclimate to your departures.
You can gradually expose them to cues like getting your keys, putting on your shoes, and taking your bags to the door. Seek guidance from an animal behaviorist if needed, as they can provide expert advice tailored to your pet’s needs. Keep in mind that anxiety training may take several weeks or even months to achieve significant results, so be patient and start the training process as early as possible.
Consult the vet regarding medication
If your pet’s anxiety persists despite your efforts, it’s important to consult your veterinarian about the possibility of medication to help alleviate their stress and anxiety. While medication is not a solution for every pet, it can be effective for some in reducing anxiety levels.
When considering medication, it’s crucial to carefully review the instructions provided. Some medications may require daily administration as they need time to build up in your pet’s system.
It’s essential to follow the instructions precisely to ensure proper dosage and timing. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and adverse reactions associated with the medication.
Conduct thorough research and discuss any concerns or questions with your veterinarian before starting your pet on medication. They will be able to provide guidance and recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs.
Are you planning a trip and in need of cage-free and kennel-free pet boarding services in Plano, Texas? Look no further than Pets Are Inn. Since 1994, we have been providing exceptional cage-free and kennel-free boarding services for our clients and their beloved pets.
If you would like more information about our services, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
You can give us a call at 972-424-8400 or send an email to petsareinnplano@sbcglobal.net. When it comes to your pet’s boarding needs, it’s important to choose a reliable facility like Pets Are Inn. Don’t wait any longer, contact us today!