Dog Kennels are Better for Your Dog’s Emotional Health

Animals Are Emotional

How often have you come back from a vacation to a dog, who is absolutely overjoyed at your return? His tail wags nonstop for what seems like hours, he twines about your legs and makes it a point never to be more than a foot away from your body at all times. Maybe this behavior persists for a few days, maybe even a week. There’s no doubt he is absolutely thrilled to have you back.

Or, maybe you’ve experienced the opposite. Maybe you’ve come home from a business trip, and find your normally cheerful and energetic pup listless, with little appetite and no desire to play. Maybe he looks like a commercial for an antidepressant.

As any animal lover knows, our pets (especially dogs and cats) are sentient and very emotional. It is very hard for them to be separated from their families, even for short periods of time. Leaving them mostly alone, for even a few days, can have significant effects on them, and more often than not leave them depressed. And, as with people, these effects don’t always go away once you come home.

Dog Walkers and Sitters Are Not Enough

When going out of town for a few days, many people employ a dog-walker or neighbor to feed your dog, let him out to do his business, and make sure he gets a little exercise. But a few minutes of company isn’t enough for most animals. Think about it: even if you live alone and work fulltime, your pet still expects to see you and spend time with you in the evenings as you watch TV or surf the internet. Unless you have someone come and actually occupy your house, your animal will be left alone for far too long, resulting in depression and feelings of abandonment.

It’s Time to Consider Dog Kennels

A better alternative is to take your pup to one of your local dog kennels before you leave on your trip. If you’ve never heard from a friend about a kennel experience, or used one yourself, you have no idea how much better it is for your dog and your own peace of mind! Kennels are fantastic. First, they ensure your pup will have companionship from both people and other friendly dogs. Kennel staff members are experts in dog handling and care, and will be able to engage your pet and watch for signs of emotional distress. They’ll be able to spend more time with him if needed, and keep you apprised of his status. Some kennels even have cameras in the individual crates, so you can check up on your pup with your own eyes anytime you like.

Dog kennels have play areas for the animals, so you can be sure your pup will not be bored or lack his exercise.

Not convinced yet? Check out our listings page for kennels near you. We provide active links, making it that much easier for you to call them up and ask all the questions you like. Isn’t your dog’s happiness worth a phone call? Check out your local kennels today and be prepared the next time you take a trip.