Separation Anxiety in Dogs: How Boarding Can Help

Snorkel gear is hanging up by your togs – your getaway approaches. You are so excited, but something holds you back from truly anticipating the fun ahead. You might have been planning your holiday for a while, and for numerous reasons, you may not be able to bring your dog with you. Perhaps you are worried about how your dog will react and how they might behave when you are no longer in view. All fair points.  

Your dog might even have nervous habits that they’ve developed over time during periods of separation. This behaviour is something to be aware of and should not go unchecked. With the anxiety that dogs encounter, the thought of leaving them is a dreaded one. After all, all you want is for your dog to be secure and healthy when you are away. 

There is a pet boarding option in Auckland that almost functions like a pet hotel. With a sensitivity to canines and their anxious habits, staff can keep an eye out for reserved pups and cater to their temperament. But what can you do to help prepare your dog for their stay? 

Separation anxiety: what is it and how does it impact your dog? 

You might be familiar with the feeling of seeing your furniture, floors, and even at times your prized possessions, being tampered with by your dog. If not, potentially destroyed by the power of your dog’s teeth or their claws when you two are separated. These are some of the signs of separation anxiety in dogs. 

Your furry companion may be cute, but separation anxiety in dogs can be extremely problematic for both owner and pet. Extreme distress can be felt in certain dogs as soon as their owner goes out of the room, or if they leave their canine companion for an extended period of time. In some cases, a well-behaved dog can transform into an anxious animal, unleashing all their force onto the house and its contents. Scratching, clawing, and biting can even harm your dog’s teeth and claws. Alongside these physical issues, your dog’s mental health may also pose challenges. So, how can you, as the owner, help your dog through this during a trip away?

Boarding facilities give your dog tasks and things to do

A big factor when it comes to separation anxiety in dogs is that when an owner leaves, a dog is often left with nothing, if not minimal things to do. Rest assured, in boarding environments, dogs are kept to a fun and exciting schedule that balances both rest and play activities. Your dog will enjoy being entertained, or at a minimum, have their curiosity engaged. If your dog is more reserved, then this can be noted by staff at boarding facilities, and walks could be balanced along with minimal group play. It’s the role of the staff to unpack a dog’s temperament and create stimulating activities that suit each unique pet. 

Group play strengthens confidence 

Group play is where dogs can safely interact and engage with other dogs in a supervised and safe environment. Dogs can freely run and go on adventures in a controlled environment, allowing them to flex their muscles and stretch their legs. This not only helps uplift their social skills, but it also encourages them to learn new behaviours, support overall wellbeing, and, in some cases, through distraction, help reduce separation anxiety in some dogs. Through exposure to other dogs, anxious breeds can be distracted and lose themselves in play. 

Extra care and tailored, unique experiences 

Staff at Brookby Lodge pride themselves on their facilities, feeling more like a doggy day care than a kennel. Pets enjoy a home away from home, with 10 acres to run around on, they can truly find a place to call their own, if not for a few days or weeks. Environments like this appear novel and exciting to dogs, and in some cases, more anxious-leaning animals can find some relaxation in their surroundings. Separation anxiety in dogs can at times be reduced through exposure to environments as relaxing as Brookby Lodge. 

Structure is your anxious dog’s best friend 

Along with group play, structure often ends up being a standout aspect of a great boarding facility. Dogs that experience separation anxiety often need things like structure to help distract them and give them something to focus on (instead of missing you, the owner). Brookby Lodge divides the time into group play, rest time, roaming, feeding time and playing with toys, etc. Dogs end up having much less time to pine after you because time and structure are thoughtfully considered.

How to prep for your dog’s stay

Speaking to your dog’s vet should be the first thing you do if you are at all concerned with your dog and their ability to be away from you. Your vet will be able to guide you on how to prep your canine for their home away from home adventures. What you could speak to them about is DIY methods beforehand.  These might include playing music or simply keeping the TV on while you’re away. These suggestions could help to distract your dog and keep their senses engaged, potentially levelling them up for the big holiday. 

What’s also helpful is pet cameras, so your dog can hear your voice remotely. While these tactics can help with some symptoms, it is best to consult your vet for more serious cases. Also, give a heads up to the pet boarding place as well that your dog has some separation anxiety symptoms – this will help them curate the experience and give your dog that specific attention they require. 

Brookby Lodge: A standout facility for your dog

Brookby Lodge is your pet’s very own dog hotel and proves to be a great option for pet boarding in Auckland. This dog hotel has so much value as staff deliver meals to pets, there are relaxing, snug areas to cosy up in, and, of course, a wide open space for ample chaotic fun. Our 10-acre property is a lovely rustic adventure playground for your pup to have their very own home away from home. 

Brookby Lodge can accommodate any breed at affordable prices so that you can rest easy whilst on your travels. Fear not, your dog will be in safe hands, chugging on their fresh bone and enjoying the great outdoors. You can even come in to check out our facilities for free before your booking. Remember if your dog does have separation anxiety, Brookby Lodge can help your dog build their confidence in a structured, safe and supportive environment. Contact us today. Brookby Lodge: the thoughtful option for a safe and fun stay for your dog.