Some dogs act a little differently for a few days after their owners collect them from pet boarding. It is usually not a cause for much concern—if your dog has not boarded before, they could just be readjusting to their surroundings, especially if they were with the boarding centre for a while.

It helps, though, to know when you must worry and when you should give them space and time to settle back into their routine. Here are some things you could expect from your pet after you pick them up from the wellness centre:

Your dog might be eating more than usual

An issue that frequently pops up is that a dog is eating more than they normally do. If your pet seems like they can consume twice or even thrice the amount of food they eat, do not worry. This increase in appetite can mean several things.

First, dogs usually have more time for exercise and play when they are at a boarding centre. Since they move around a lot, they work up a large appetite and must refuel with more calories than usual. However, they may also eat less when at wellness centres, since they are in an unfamiliar place and might be cautious or extra protective.

Dogs often play catch-up when they get home, and make up for the food that they did not consume while they were away. If your dog’s appetite does not revert in a couple of days, you can speak to a veterinarian to ask if you should be especially concerned.

Rest assured that our trained staff at The Paw Resort and Wellness Centre (we have a veterinarian on site) keep a close set of eyes on all of the pets that stay with us, and if any are exhibiting any behaviours that are cause for concern we will be in contact with what we believe to be the best course of action for your pet’s health.

They could be drinking more water

Like the increased levels of hunger, dogs might also drink more when they get back home. It is also likely because your pet feels more comfortable drinking there than at the centre—sometimes, it may be because your dog prefers the taste of water from home. Like with food consumption, you could wait for a few days for your dog’s water drinking habits to get back to how they normally are, or you can ask a vet if they remain unusual after a week.

Your dog could be sleeping more as well

Boarding facilities that take care of your dog will almost certainly keep them busy, so if your pet is sleeping a lot after boarding, do not worry. It probably means that the centre gave her plenty of time to interact with other dogs, run around, and play.

Pet boarding should not just be about housing and feeding a dog until their owner comes to collect them. A great wellness centre will exercise and play with your pet to keep them from being bored, restless, or pining after you. Just like food and drink, increased sleep might just be because they are catching up on hours they lost.

They might have stomach problems

If you have ever had to give a presentation or perform in front of an audience, you know how it feels to have an upset tummy because of nerves. This can happen to your pets as well. If your dog has diarrhea when they first get back, this could be due to the emotions they are feeling rather than their gut health.

Your pet’s comfort is the priority for pet care facilities. They are not likely to contract a virus or an infection while staying at these places—any reputable centre would be particular about cleaning and disinfecting their pet boarding areas.

However, if your dog has an upset stomach for more than two days, you must schedule an appointment with your vet to overrule any illnesses. Schedule a visit immediately if your dog has diarrhea and is not drinking water.

They might be exhibiting anxious behaviour

Mild separation anxiety is common among dogs that lose contact with their owner. If your dog is clingy when you are reunited, do not worry. They probably just miss you! You can help your dog ease back into confidence by re-establishing your routine at home. That will make them feel secure as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Your dog will disconnect from their routine when they first return home from a care facility. They might eat, drink, or sleep a little more than usual, or they might seek your company more frequently. Do not worry; give them a few days to ease back in their habits, and they will surely get back to normal soon enough.

At The Paw Resort and Wellness Centre, we love your pets because they are family too. We designed our pet boarding facility in Brandon, Manitoba, to promote fun, safety, and comfort for your pets. Call to book us today, and see how we are so much more than a kennel!