When to use a pet sitter and separation anxiety in pets

Pets with Separation Anxiety

No matter how loving or wonderful a boarding facility may be-- private or commercial-- some dogs just need to stay in their own home environment. Elderly, sick dogs and dogs with anxiety issues may do better at home with a pet sitter visiting them several times in a day than in a new, foreign setting.  Finding themselves suddenly in an unfamiliar home or facility can be overwhelming for the pet with anxiety.

Most little dogs are thrilled to have the companionship of other little doggies and the love and attention of The Doggie Nanny! However, we have found for a small number of dogs, a change of environment can bring out anxiety, aggression and  destructive or nervous behaviors that overwhelm the dog and the care provider.

Though it is the exception, in 6 years of providing home boarding for small breed dogs, we have had three dogs here that would have been better off remaining home. My first experience with severe separation anxiety was with a male dog that whimpered and cried for two and a half days...all day and through the night. He also pee'd incessantly all over the house. The second dog just acted crazy, pooped everywhere and walked it all over our home as well. I went through a lot of bleach that weekend!  The third was simply in a state of panic for most of her visit with us and constantly tried to escape. Throughout their visit, these three dogs suffered and exhausted me with all the extra cleaning I had to do! They shook, cried, peed and pooped. I was unable to console them.

Dog Boarding and Anxiety- How to relieve your and your pet's stress

Advice From The Doggie Nanny




Occasionally when someone brings their dog to a another home for boarding for the first time, they are upset.  When I say "they", I mean both the owner AND the dog are upset.  The doggie mom or dad is insecure about leaving their precious little pet with a stranger or family member that is new to the pet.  The dog is frightened when they realize they will be separated from their mom or dad-- the people who are the focus of their existence.  Quite understandable.  Sometimes the pet parent exacerbates the situation with a prolonged goodbye and the dog's anxiety becomes heightened.  Goodbyes should be short and sweet.

I want to reassure pet parents out there.  How can you feel secure in your choice of boarding service?  First, do your due diligence.  You can get boarding recommendations from other pet owners, from your Groomer, Vet or even the internet.  

Research the person or business with whom you are leaving your little pet. Spend the time to visit their home or facility.  The last thing you want to do is to leave your precious pet with a boarding service without visiting beforehand, discover you made a mistake, but due to time and circumstances realize you have no other options.