Boarding anxiety

[This was originally posted to the Fairmount Animal Hospital website on 8 December 2008.]

Dear Dr. Lee,

When my 2 dogs, 8 and 6 years old, went to the kennel, they always stayed in the same crate. My 8 year old never minded it, but my 6 year-old was extremely nervous and sometimes wouldn't eat for a couple of days. Two weeks ago, when they were at the kennel, my 8 year-old became ill and had to be euthanized. My question is, we are going away in three weeks and I don't know if my dog will be traumatized going back to the same kennel without my other dog. He never saw the dog after they euthanized her, so the last scent he remembers is her fear. Would it be better to switch kennels, even though the staff know and love him? Or will he be more traumatized going to a new place with new staff and a new routine? Do you feel he will remember everything that happened at the kennel? I'd appreciate any suggestions you may have. Thanks you so much!

~ Distraught in Syracuse


Dear Distraught,

First, please accept my heartfelt condolences for your tragic loss. This must have been awful for everyone, including you, your six year-old dog, and the kennel personnel. Even if your dog does not remember the details of his last kennel stay, he will no doubt miss your other dog, as she was always there when they were kenneled.

You have multiple options for your dog as far as boarding when you go out of town. It is not unusual for dogs to be nervous when then are kenneled, and this can result in behaviors such as anorexia. If you feel the personnel at the boarding kennel you like and know will treat him well, you can certainly do a test run by boarding him for the day, and seeing how he does. Have them feed him his breakfast and see if he will eat for them, or take treats from them, or both. You may also opt to do this at a new kennel and compare his behaviors at each.

Another option is to hire a house sitter who would be willing to care for your dog as well. This does offer more personalized attention and a familiar and comfortable environment for your dog.

If your dog does not do well in either situation because he is grieving, speak with your veterinarian about the possibility of using a short (3-6 months) course of an anti-anxiety medication to help, and try to get him involved in family activities and exercise as much as possible.

Sincerely,
Dr. Lee