Why Is My Dog Traumatized After Boarding

Are you planning a trip but worried about how your furry friend will handle being boarded? Unfortunately, not all dogs handle the separation well, and some may even experience trauma during their stay.

It’s a heart-wrenching situation for any dog owner to see their beloved pet suffer, but don’t worry, there are ways to help them through it.

In this post, we’ll discuss how to recognize if your dog has been traumatized after boarding and what steps you can take to help them heal.

So let’s get started!

Why Is My Dog Traumatized After Boarding

Boarding can be a traumatic experience for many dogs, especially if it’s their first time being separated from their owners.

Being in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people and animals can cause a lot of stress and anxiety for dogs.

Additionally, boarding facilities can be noisy, with strange smells and routines, which can further exacerbate a dog’s anxiety.

Some dogs may have had negative experiences at a boarding facility, such as being injured or mistreated, which can lead to long-term trauma.

Signs Your Dog Is Traumatized After Boarding

The following are some of the most common signs your dog is traumatized after boarding:

1. Excessive licking, Chewing, or Scratching

Consistent licking, gnawing, or scratching, especially in specific areas of their body, may suggest anxiety or discomfort.

Check your dog on a regular basis for signs of skin irritation, rashes, or parasites. If there are no health issues, this behavior could be due to stress.

Redirect their attention to appropriate toys or activities by using positive reinforcement tactics.

Giving your dog interactive puzzle toys can help stimulate their thoughts while discouraging harmful conduct.

2. Hypervigilance

Traumatized dogs after boarding may exhibit hypervigilant behavior, continually scanning their surroundings and appearing on edge.

Reduce unexpected noises or movements to create a quiet and predictable environment.

Create a daily schedule that includes frequent exercise, mental stimulation, and quiet downtime.

Provide a safe and pleasant sleeping environment, such as a box or warm bed.

3. Excessive Panting or Shaking

Excessive panting or shaking, particularly when unrelated to physical exertion or external factors such as temperature, might be an indication of trauma after boarding.

Maintain a cool and comfortable environment for your dog. Use relaxing tools like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps to help your dog relax.

To assist them discharge excessive energy, establish a consistent regimen and provide frequent exercise.

4. Avoidance or Hiding

A traumatized dog after boarding may hide in strange areas or avoid eye contact. Allow your pet space and time to acclimate at their own pace.

Allow your dog to come out of hiding when they are ready, rather than forcing them into difficult situations.

To help rebuild trust and confidence, provide plenty of positive reinforcement, soft caressing, and calming words.

5. Increased Restlessness or Pacing

Pacing and restlessness are common signs that your dog is nervous or traumatized after boarding.

Engaging them in mentally stimulating activities can aid in the redirection of their energy and the promotion of relaxation.

To keep their brains occupied, consider employing puzzle toys or engaging in obedience training sessions.

Creating a consistent daily schedule can also help your dog feel more safe and less restless.

6. Excessive Barking or Howling

If your normally peaceful and quiet dog begins barking or howling excessively after boarding, this could be a sign that they are frightened or distressed.

It is critical to create a peaceful and secure environment at home to assist them in dealing with this.

Create a relaxing environment for your dog by providing their favorite bedding and toys.

Additionally, consider playing relaxing music or white noise to assist them relax.

7. Decreased Appetite or Refusal to Eat

An abrupt shift in your dog’s feeding patterns is often an indication of stress or trauma after boarding.

It is critical to address this issue if your dog appears uninterested in their food or refuses to eat at all.

Make a calm, relaxing feeding space away from distractions for them.

You can increase the aroma and appeal of their food by adding warm water or low-sodium broth.

If the situation persists, you should seek advice from your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

8. Aggressive Behavior

Trauma in dogs following boarding can occasionally emerge as hostility in dogs.

If your dog becomes unusually violent or territorial after being boarded, it is critical that you get expert assistance from a trained dog behaviorist.

They can assess the problem and offer tailored training solutions to combat the violence.

It is critical not to chastise or scold your dog for their conduct because this may aggravate their dread and anxiety.

9. Fearful or Submissive Body Language

If your dog exhibits afraid or subservient body language, such as crouching, tucking their tail between their legs, or avoiding eye contact, be patient and loving with them.

Avoid scolding or punishing your dog for their anxious behavior, as this will just make their anxiety worse.

Encourage good contacts with familiar people and places to gradually help them recover their confidence.

10. Changes in Bathroom Habit

Trauma after boarding can influence a dog’s potty habits, causing accidents or difficulties eliminating.

Avoid punishing your dog for mistakes, and instead reinforce their training with positive reinforcement.

Maintain a consistent schedule for potty breaks and give them plenty of opportunities to relieve themselves outside.

If the issue persists, see your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical concerns that could be causing the changes in their potty habits.

Learn more about identifying a dog in pain and making your dog happy.

Mitigating dog trauma during boarding

Mitigating dog trauma during boarding is important for providing the best possible experience for the dog and for ensuring its well-being.

Here are some tips for reducing the stress and anxiety that dogs may experience during boarding:

1. Choose a reputable boarding facility that provides a safe and comfortable environment, as well as adequate exercise, socialization, and attention.
2. Familiarize your dog with the boarding facility ahead of time. This can involve taking them on a tour of the facility, allowing them to spend a few hours there to get used to the atmosphere, and leaving them for a trial night to see how they cope.
3. Provide mental stimulation and exercise before boarding. This can help the dog expend excess energy and reduce anxiety levels.
4. Bring items from home, such as a blanket or toy, to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort.
5. Provide clear instructions to the boarding staff regarding your dog’s routine, diet, and any medications or special needs they may have.
6. Ensure that your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations required by the boarding facility.
7. Consider hiring a pet sitter to come to your home and care for your dog while you are away if the thought of boarding your dog is too stressful.

Remember that every dog is different and will respond to boarding in their own way.

It is important to observe and ask questions, and be willing to adjust your dog’s boarding experience as needed.

Learn more about identifying a bored dog.

Helping a traumatized dog after boarding

Boarding can be a stressful experience for dogs, and some dogs may become traumatized after boarding.

Here are some tips for helping a traumatized dog after boarding:

1. Be patient: Your dog may need some time to adjust to being back home. Give them the time they need to settle down and get back to their regular routine.
2. Show your love: Dogs can become more clingy and insecure after being boarded. Reassure them with extra love and attention.
3. Stick to a routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so keep their routine as consistent as possible after boarding.
4. Exercise: Exercise helps dogs relieve stress and anxiety. Take your dog for walks or play in the backyard to help them relax.
5. Positive reinforcement training: Positive reinforcement training can help build your dog’s confidence and reduce anxiety. Consider enlisting the help of a professional trainer.
6. Use calming products: Consider using calming products like pheromone sprays or diffusers or anti-anxiety supplements or medications after consulting your vet.
7. Provide comfort and reassurance: Show your dog that you care and that they are safe. Offer them their favorite treats and toys, and spend time with them to help them feel more at ease.
8. Give them space: Some dogs may need space and time alone to feel comfortable again. Provide a quiet and comfortable spot for them to retreat to if they need it.
9. Socialize: Socialize your dog with other people and pets slowly and carefully, keeping a watchful eye on their behavior.
10. Attend to any physical needs: Dogs may experience physical discomfort while boarding, such as from sitting or sleeping in unfamiliar positions. Make sure your dog is comfortable, and address any injuries or medical needs they may have.
11. Consider behavioral therapy: If your dog exhibits anxiety or fear after boarding, consider working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to help them work through their issues.
12. Seek professional help: If your dog is showing signs of extreme anxiety or trauma, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.

Learn more about making your dog feel safe with you.

Preventing future dog trauma during boarding

Boarding a dog can be a stressful experience, and it is important to take steps to prevent trauma and ensure your dog’s well-being.

Here are some tips to help prevent future trauma during boarding:

1. Choose a reputable boarding facility that is comfortable with your dog’s breed and personality.
2. Prepare your dog for boarding by taking them to visit the facility beforehand and getting them used to the environment.
3. Bring familiar items from home, such as blankets or toys, to provide comfort and a sense of familiarity.
4. Maintain open communication with the boarding facility staff and provide detailed instructions on your dog’s routine, medication, and any special needs.
5. Consider using natural remedies such as calming pheromone sprays or CBD oil to help reduce anxiety.

By taking these steps, you can help prevent future trauma and ensure your dog’s well-being during boarding.

It is important to choose a reputable facility and communicate openly with the staff to ensure the best possible experience for your furry friend.

Learn more about identifying anxiety in dogs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, boarding your dog can be a stressful experience for both you and your furry friend.

It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable boarding facility that prioritizes the well-being of the animals in their care.

Additionally, taking steps to prepare your dog for boarding and providing them with comfort and reassurance can go a long way in mitigating any potential trauma.

Remember, your dog depends on you for their safety and happiness, so always prioritize their needs when making decisions about their care.