You have been counting down the days until pickup. Meanwhile, your pup has been having a blast during boarding and has been busy playing, exploring, and making enough new friends to fill a canine group chat.
When you are finally reunited, the tail wags may be enthusiastic, but your pup might also be tired, a little rumpled, and ready for a quiet evening at home.
A few simple steps can make the transition from an extended boarding stay back to everyday life more comfortable for everyone.
Give your dog time to decompress, return to their regular feeding and sleeping schedule gradually, offer plenty of fresh water and avoid packing the first day home with activities. Scheduling an exit bath before pickup can also help your dog return home feeling clean, fresh and ready to curl up on the couch.
Excitement is expected when your dog sees you again. Still, try to keep the rest of pickup day relatively relaxed. After several days of playing, socializing and experiencing a different routine, many dogs simply need time to rest.
Skip the crowded welcome-home gathering or immediate trip to the dog park. Instead, offer a calm car ride, a familiar place to sleep and plenty of affection on your dog’s terms. Do not be surprised if your pup naps more than usual. Even the life of the boarding party eventually catches up with them.
Dogs find comfort in familiar routines. Resume regular meal, bathroom, and bedtime schedules as closely as possible, but pay attention to your dog’s cues.
Your dog may drink more water after arriving home or seem especially hungry. Offer their normal portions rather than one oversized “welcome home” feast, which could upset their stomach. If you packed your dog’s regular food for the stay, as recommended in Kanine Social’s guide to what to bring for dog boarding, getting back into the usual routine should be fairly simple.
After days of indoor and outdoor play, even the most dignified dog may come home wearing a little evidence of the fun. An exit bath helps remove dirt and odors before your dog climbs into the car, greets the family or makes a beeline for your clean bedding.
The Kanine Social Riverside location offers an optional exit bath for boarding guests. The service includes:
The exit bath must be requested as an additional service when making the boarding reservation. It is a convenient option for pet parents who want their dog to arrive home looking and smelling fresh without having to tackle bath time immediately after a trip.
Beyond the fresher ride home, the welcomed nail trim and ear cleaning extras take a few more tasks off your post-travel list. You can unpack, your dog can nap and everyone can pretend the laundry will take care of itself.
Boarding dogs may spend much of their day playing, exercising and socializing. At Kanine Social, boarding includes daycare and all-day play for eligible dogs, giving them opportunities for physical activity and interaction during their stay.
That fun can also mean more contact with grass, outdoor surfaces, other dogs and the general messiness that comes with active play. An exit bath provides a final refresh before pickup. It is especially helpful after a longer stay, during rainy weather or when you have a dog whose coat seems to collect everything within a ten-foot radius.
You can learn more about the daily experience and accommodations on Kanine Social’s Jacksonville dog boarding page.
Temporary tiredness or extra excitement can be normal after boarding. Give your dog a quiet place to rest and monitor how they are eating, drinking and behaving as they settle back in.
If you notice persistent vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, unusual lethargy or another concerning change, contact your veterinarian. You know your dog’s normal behavior better than anyone, so do not hesitate to ask for professional guidance if something seems off.
A comfortable homecoming begins before the boarding stay starts. Prepare your dog’s food and instructions, share relevant health or behavior information and request any additional services ahead of time.
First-time guests may also benefit from learning about the temperament test before boarding at Kanine Social.
Planning an extended stay? Explore dog boarding at Kanine Social and remember to request the Riverside exit bath when making your reservation. Your dog can enjoy the stay, then head home clean, comfortable and fully prepared to reclaim the best spot on the couch.
