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Vet highlights ‘dangers’ of bringing dog’s chew toys with them for the kennel

Daycare and boarding facilities are excellent options for dogs when you can’t be with them. While you think their toys and blanket can be comforting in your absence, a vet ti

Staying away from pets is one of the most difficult and emotional experiences for most of us. A recent study found that people wouldn’t think twice before risking their own lives for their pets in a crisis like a natural disaster as long as they aren’t separated from their furry pals.

Dog licking human hand through fence in animal shelter
Credit: Oleksii Karamanov | Getty Images

Vet warns against bringing pets’ toys to boarding

A lot of dog parents wouldn’t send their pooch to the daycare or boarding without their toys and of course, there is always the favorite blanket or bed that accompanies them.

Aside from health concerns like Heartworm, which your�dog could contract while at the boarding, you must consider a few more safety issues�before sending them away.

Certified veterinarian Dr. Adam Christman warns against carrying your dogs’ belongings to any daycare or boarding, no matter how attached your pooch is to those things.

While it’s easier for pet parents to keep an eye on their dogs at home, it’s difficult to monitor them similarly at the kennel. So, the toys and blankets could be a choking hazard, if the dog accidentally ends up swallowing chunks of it.

“This is because their runs and their homes are often getting cleaned and they might get lost. Also, we don’t know your dog’s chewing behavior. We don’t want them to be obstructed or get into things when they are being boarded,” the vet explains.

If your pup loves chewing on your stuff, especially furniture, you can prevent it ensuring they get plenty of exercise so that boredom doesn’t enable their chewing behavior. A dog behaviorist also recommends teaching them the “no” command, so they know what not to gnaw on.

More boarding tips for dog parents

Dr. Adam’s video features the checklist for boarding or daycare that every dog parent must follow to ensure their pooch has a safe and fun stay.

Never forget to bring your dog’s food as their body would be used to it. Switching to a different diet while away from home could cause upset stomach and other issues.

He also suggests packing the right measures of food so the boarders know how much your pup needs to be fed. The same goes for their medications – the boarders should be informed about the dosage and timings.

Last but not least, “It’s very important to let the boarding facility know if your dog gets along with other dogs,” advises the vet.

Adam Christman is a certified veterinarian who serves as chief veterinary officer of MJH Life Sciences. He holds an MBA and CVPM (Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) from Webster University.