It is important to understand the possible effects of stress on a dog and to do everything possible to minimize stress both prior to and immediately after boarding. Sometimes temporary behavior changes can occur as a result of unfamiliar surroundings.

While boarding, your dog tears up the bed that has been slept in for years. Or “Killer,” that rowdy scourge of the neighborhood, turns into a little lamb.

Eating habits change under stress, and a dog assimilates food differently. Some will eat like canaries at home and like vultures at a boarding facility. They may put on a few pounds. Others can lose weight though eating well or lose weight by not eating enough.

Life in a boarding facility can be very exciting, and some dogs lose weight because they run the weight off as they charge around barking at other dogs and having a wonderful time. These dogs often leave the facility exhausted but happy, and sleep a lot the first couple of days they are home.

All of the preparation by the pet owner merely points out that successful boarding depends not only upon the pet care facility, but also upon how well the owner prepares the dog for the experience.

* For dogs that are 10 years old and older, we require the owner or responsible party to sign an "elder release form". This form lists any medications, medical issues and physical abnormalities. Older dogs usually require much more attention and T.L.C.

We at Palmer Kennels, Inc., want you to be aware that being away from home can be stressful on older pets. Changing their daily routine can upset them. Additionally, older dogs are more likely to have underlying health problems that may not be apparent to anyone while boarding and/or upon their arrival home.

In reality no one person and/or boarding facility is to blame for their onset of a health problem. Stress can be caused from a variety of different factors: being away from home, a new environment, other dogs, new noises, different smells, a change in food or water, the list goes on. Stress triggers physical changes in your older pet.

Because of this you may see physical signs of vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, or increased respiration do to boarding your elderly pet. Our staff does everything possible to make your dog as comfortable as possible. If we find that he/she is not doing well, it will be necessary for you or a responsible party to pick up your dog from the kennel.

Now that your best friend is home again

When your dog is picked up, he or she will be very excited to see you. Do not feed your dog (though he or she will act hungry after getting back to familiar turf) for at least three hours, and then be careful not to overfeed.

Also, excitement may cause your dog to pant a lot and become thirsty. Give a few ice cubes to hold him or her over until feeding time. Again, in a happy, excited state, excessive food and water consumption can create problems. the vast majority of dogs view their stay at a boarding facility as a vacation.

Relax and enjoy your trip!