Planning for Your Dog's Staycation in Reston and...

Summer is upon us and many of us are making vacation plans to jet set off to paradise for a relaxing trip away to welcome the warmer weather and make the most use of our kids time off from school. If you are a dog parent as well, there are a few plans you need make before heading out on vacation to ensure your four-legged friend's staycation is as comfortable and relaxing as yours will be. Read on to check out some tips when arranging full service dog boarding and day care in Reston & Ashburn VA!

Do your Research: Cage Free Dog Daycares

While some of us wish we could bring our fur babies along with our human babies on our summer trips, sometimes we just can't take our beloved dogs with us. Therefore it's imperative that you plan a 'staycation' for them while you're away by placing them in a comfortable dog boarding facility. Some dog kennels will keep your pup in a small crate the entire day. Others, like Healthy Hound Playground near Reston and Ashburn VA, provide supervised cage-free doggy day care during the day so that your dogs are able to enjoy the company of other dogs and get some exercise as well. The best dog facilities take your pup outside on short walks to potty as well. It is also a great idea to inquire as to whether the facility has someone that stays overnight with the dogs, just to keep an ear out for any signs of discomfort or distress.

Meal Planning

It's important to plan out your pup's meals before you drop Fido off to the kennel, especially If your dog does better on a particular brand of food. With that in mind, grab some gallon-sized storage bags and portion out meals for each day you will be away. You can even label them as breakfast, dinner, etc. Keeping them on the same routine while you're on vacation can give them some comfort as kennel staff will feed them according to your directions. The same applies for any medications your pup may take.

Packing their Suitcases

Most dog moms and dads like their pets to have some of their favorite things with them in their kennel at night to remind them of home. For instance, if your pup has a favorite toy or just loves to snuggle up with one of your t-shirts, consider packing these items for Fido to give him some added comfort at the end of each day. While you're away, your dog can enjoy their favorite belongings and snuggle up to that shirt when they are tuckered out.

Multiple Dog Boarding

If you have multiple doggie household that you would like to board, it might be a good idea to place them in the same kennel/canine cottage while you are on vacation. Some dogs seem to experience separation anxiety when their owners are gone for a few days but if you pair up your pets together, they can keep each other company. Some area kennels will even offer a discount on services when you have multiple dogs - it never hurts to ask!

As you plan the details of your dream summer vacation, keep the above suggestions in mind so your dog will have a fun and healthy staycation and offer you peace of mind to enjoy those rays.