• Table of Contents

  • Introduction
  • What to Do When Your Dog Gets Sick After Boarding
  • How to Spot Signs of Illness in Your Dog After Boarding
  • Common Causes of Dog Illness After Boarding
  • How to Prevent Dog Illness After Boarding
  • Tips for Choosing a Reputable Dog Boarding Facility
  • Conclusion

Introduction

If you’ve ever had to board your dog while you were away, you know the feeling of dread when you pick them up and they don’t seem quite right. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for dogs to become sick after boarding. This can be due to a variety of factors, including stress, exposure to other animals, and changes in diet or environment. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of a sick dog after boarding, as well as what you can do to help them recover.

What to Do When Your Dog Gets Sick After Boarding

When your dog returns home from a boarding facility, it is important to monitor their health and behavior for any signs of illness. If your dog appears to be unwell, it is important to take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Here are some steps to take if your dog gets sick after boarding:

1. Monitor your dog’s behavior and health. Look for any signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in appetite.

2. Contact the boarding facility. Let them know that your dog is unwell and ask if they have any information that could help you determine the cause of the illness.

3. Take your dog to the veterinarian. Your vet can diagnose the illness and provide treatment.

4. Follow the veterinarian’s instructions. Make sure to follow all of the instructions provided by the vet, including any medications or dietary changes.

5. Keep a record of the illness. Document any symptoms, treatments, and other information related to the illness. This will help you if you need to take legal action against the boarding facility.

6. Contact the boarding facility again. Let them know that your dog is unwell and ask if they are willing to cover the costs of the vet visit and any treatments.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your dog receives the care they need and that the boarding facility is held accountable for any illnesses that occur while your pet is in their care.

How to Spot Signs of Illness in Your Dog After Boarding

When you pick up your dog after boarding, it is important to be aware of any signs of illness that may have developed while your pet was away. While most boarding facilities take great care of their guests, it is still possible for your dog to become ill while away from home. To ensure your pet’s health and safety, it is important to be aware of the signs of illness in your dog after boarding.

The first sign of illness to look for is changes in your dog’s behavior. If your dog is usually friendly and outgoing, but suddenly seems withdrawn or lethargic, this could be a sign of illness. Additionally, if your dog is usually active and playful, but now seems to lack energy or enthusiasm, this could also be a sign of illness.

Another sign of illness to look for is changes in your dog’s appetite. If your dog is not eating as much as usual, or is refusing food altogether, this could be a sign of illness. Additionally, if your dog is drinking more water than usual, this could also be a sign of illness.

It is also important to look for any physical signs of illness. If your dog has any new lumps or bumps, or if their coat is dull or matted, this could be a sign of illness. Additionally, if your dog is coughing, sneezing, or has any discharge from their eyes or nose, this could also be a sign of illness.

If you notice any of these signs of illness in your dog after boarding, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to diagnose and treat any illnesses that may have developed while your pet was away. By being aware of the signs of illness in your dog after boarding, you can ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy.

Common Causes of Dog Illness After Boarding

Boarding a dog can be a stressful experience for both the pet and the owner. While most dogs adjust to the new environment quickly, some may experience health issues due to the stress of the situation. Common illnesses that can arise after a dog has been boarded include gastrointestinal issues, skin problems, respiratory infections, and behavioral changes.

Gastrointestinal issues are one of the most common illnesses that can arise after a dog has been boarded. Stress can cause a dog’s digestive system to become unbalanced, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. To help prevent these issues, it is important to feed the dog a balanced diet and provide plenty of fresh water.

Skin problems are another common issue that can arise after a dog has been boarded. Stress can cause a dog’s skin to become dry and itchy, leading to excessive scratching and hair loss. To help prevent skin problems, it is important to keep the dog’s coat clean and groomed.

Respiratory infections are another common illness that can arise after a dog has been boarded. Stress can weaken a dog’s immune system, making them more susceptible to respiratory infections. To help prevent respiratory infections, it is important to keep the dog’s environment clean and free of dust and allergens.

Behavioral changes are another common issue that can arise after a dog has been boarded. Stress can cause a dog to become anxious or aggressive, leading to changes in behavior. To help prevent behavioral changes, it is important to provide the dog with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

In conclusion, boarding a dog can be a stressful experience for both the pet and the owner. Common illnesses that can arise after a dog has been boarded include gastrointestinal issues, skin problems, respiratory infections, and behavioral changes. To help prevent these issues, it is important to feed the dog a balanced diet, keep the dog’s coat clean and groomed, keep the dog’s environment clean and free of dust and allergens, and provide the dog with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

How to Prevent Dog Illness After Boarding

Boarding a dog can be a stressful experience for both the pet and the owner. While it is important to ensure that the boarding facility is reputable and provides a safe and healthy environment for the pet, there are also steps that owners can take to help prevent illness after boarding.

1. Vaccinate: Before boarding, make sure that your pet is up to date on all vaccinations. This will help protect them from any contagious illnesses that may be present in the boarding facility.

2. Check for fleas and ticks: Before boarding, check your pet for fleas and ticks. If any are found, treat them immediately. This will help prevent the spread of any parasites to other animals in the facility.

3. Provide food and water: Make sure to provide your pet with enough food and water for the duration of their stay. This will help ensure that they are getting the nutrition they need and will help prevent dehydration.

4. Monitor your pet: After boarding, monitor your pet for any signs of illness. If you notice any changes in behavior or appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately.

5. Clean and disinfect: After returning home, clean and disinfect any items that your pet may have come into contact with while at the boarding facility. This will help prevent the spread of any germs or bacteria that may have been present.

By following these steps, owners can help ensure that their pet stays healthy and safe while boarding. It is important to remember that boarding facilities should always be reputable and provide a safe and healthy environment for pets.

Tips for Choosing a Reputable Dog Boarding Facility

1. Ask for Recommendations: Speak to friends, family, and other pet owners to get recommendations for reputable dog boarding facilities. Ask about their experiences and if they would recommend the facility.

2. Research Online: Look for online reviews and ratings of the facility. Read through the reviews to get an idea of the quality of care and services provided.

3. Visit the Facility: Schedule a visit to the facility to get a firsthand look at the facility and the staff. Make sure the facility is clean and well-maintained. Observe how the staff interacts with the dogs and ask questions about the care they provide.

4. Check for Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the facility is properly licensed and insured. This will ensure that the facility is held to certain standards and that your pet is protected in case of an accident or injury.

5. Ask About Services: Ask about the services provided by the facility. Make sure they offer the services you need, such as grooming, exercise, and medical care.

6. Inquire About Safety Measures: Ask about the safety measures in place to protect your pet. Make sure the facility has secure fencing, surveillance cameras, and other safety measures in place.

7. Inquire About Emergency Protocols: Ask about the facility’s emergency protocols. Make sure they have a plan in place in case of an emergency and that they are prepared to handle any situation.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you choose a reputable dog boarding facility that will provide your pet with the best care and services.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to be aware that dogs can become sick after boarding. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as stress, exposure to other animals, or changes in diet. It is important to monitor your dog closely after boarding and to contact your veterinarian if any signs of illness are observed. Taking preventative measures, such as providing your dog with a comfortable environment and familiar food, can help reduce the risk of your dog becoming sick after boarding.