What to Expect When Your Pet
Returns Home After Boarding
(Courtesy of the ABKA)

Your pet will undoubtedly be happy to see you after your trip.  Following a few simple steps will help ease the transition back to home life.

1. Overexcitement may make a dog pant a lot and act thirsty.  He is probably not really thirsty and had plenty of water available at the facility.  Give him a few ice cubes to tide him over until he settles down.

2. Do not feed your pet for at least three (3) hours after coming home from the boarding facility.  After this time, limit the food and water you provide until he has settled back into home life.  Excessive drinking and eating my lead to digestive upsets and bloating.

3. Walk your pet upon arrival or allow access to a yard area.  Excitement may also cause a change in urination or bowel movements outside his normal schedule.

4. Give your pet some personalized attention.  Allow play time, sitting, petting or brushing.  This will help him get through the excitement stage and calm down.

5. A stay at a boarding facility can be very exciting and some dogs charge around barking at other dogs, having a good time.  These dogs often leave the facility exhausted but happy, and may sleep a lot for the first couple of days once they are home.

6. Re-establish home patterns by following a normal schedule.  Pets love following a schedule, which makes them feel safe and secure.

7. After you pick your cat up from the facility, be sure to keep him in the house for a few days before allowing him to go outside.  Just as he had to adjust to the facility, he will have to adjust back to home life again.  Allow him to find that “at home” feeling again before letting him outside again.

These tips can be used as a general overview.  However, you should consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.