Sick Dog After Boarding: What You Need to Know

“Cái khó ló cái khôn” – that’s what they say, and when it comes to our furry friends, we always want the best for them. Sometimes, even after a fun trip to doggy daycare or a stay at a boarding facility, our beloved dogs might come home feeling a little under the weather. This can be a worrisome experience, especially if you’re unsure what’s causing the problem. In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons why your dog might be sick after boarding and how to provide the best care for them.

Understanding Why Your Dog Might Be Sick After Boarding

Let’s face it, dogs are creatures of habit, and any change to their routine can be a bit stressful for them. Imagine being plucked from your familiar home, thrown into a new environment, and surrounded by unfamiliar faces – wouldn’t that be a little overwhelming?

Here are some common reasons why your dog might be sick after boarding:

Stress and Anxiety

Being separated from their loved ones and placed in a new environment can cause a lot of stress for dogs. dog lethargic after boarding This stress can manifest in different ways, including:

Loss of appetite: A stressed dog might refuse to eat their usual meals.
Diarrhea or constipation: Changes in diet and routine can upset their digestive system.
Vomiting: Some dogs experience vomiting when they are stressed or anxious.
Lethargy: Dogs may become tired and withdrawn when they are stressed.

Exposure to Illness

Just like humans, dogs can catch illnesses from each other. While boarding facilities strive to keep their dogs healthy, sometimes it’s inevitable that a dog might pick up a bug. Some common illnesses dogs can get from boarding include:

Kennel cough: This is a respiratory infection that is highly contagious among dogs.
Parvovirus: This is a serious and potentially fatal viral infection.
Distemper: This is another serious viral infection that can cause neurological damage.

Changes in Diet

Dogs are creatures of habit, and a sudden change in diet can upset their digestive system. Boarding facilities often use different food than what your dog is used to at home. This can lead to:

Diarrhea: This is a common symptom of dietary changes.
Vomiting: Some dogs experience vomiting after a change in diet.
Gas: This can be a sign of an upset stomach.

What To Do If Your Dog Is Sick After Boarding

If you notice that your dog is sick after boarding, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will be able to assess your dog’s symptoms and determine the best course of treatment.

Signs to Watch For

Here are some signs that your dog might be sick after boarding:

Loss of appetite: A dog that isn’t eating their usual meals might be ill.
Lethargy: A dog that is unusually tired or sluggish might be sick.
Vomiting: Vomiting can be a sign of several illnesses.
Diarrhea: Diarrhea can also be a sign of several illnesses.
Coughing: Coughing can be a sign of a respiratory infection.
Sneezing: Sneezing can also be a sign of a respiratory infection.
Runny nose: A runny nose can be a sign of a respiratory infection.
Fever: A dog that is running a fever might be sick.

What to Do at Home

While it’s always best to consult your veterinarian, here are a few things you can do at home to help your dog feel better:

Rest: Give your dog plenty of rest.
Hydration: Make sure your dog has access to fresh water.
Bland Diet: If your dog has an upset stomach, you can try feeding them a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice.
Stress Reduction: Create a calm and relaxing environment for your dog.

Prevention is Key

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” goes the saying. Here are some tips to help prevent your dog from getting sick after boarding:

Choose a Reputable Boarding Facility: Do your research and choose a facility that is clean, well-maintained, and has a good reputation.
Vaccinations: Make sure your dog is up-to-date on their vaccinations, including the kennel cough vaccine.
Gradual Transition: If you’re planning to change your dog’s diet, do it gradually over a few days.
Familiar Items: Bring a few familiar items from home, such as their bed, toys, or blanket, to help them feel more comfortable.
Stress Reduction: Take steps to reduce your dog’s stress before they go to boarding, such as leaving them with a familiar item or taking them for a walk.

Conclusion

Having a sick dog after boarding can be a stressful experience, but with a little knowledge and proactive measures, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy. Remember, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional help from your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your dog’s health. spectra dog vaccines schedule

And remember, “Your dog may be your best friend, but it’s your responsibility to make sure they stay healthy and happy.” If you have any questions about your dog’s health, please don’t hesitate to contact us at i love my pet. We’re here to help!