I will be boarding a dog soon and wanted to know what I can do to make this girl feel safe. She was a adopted from a shelter 2 years ago as a puppy and is super loving around her owners, but is timid and shy when they are not around.
Have the owners bring a clothing item (pillow case, etc.) with their scent on it, favorite toy(s), treats and be sure to take the dog for 1 or more walks daily. The walks will help calm the dog and bond with you. Also, ask the owner (before the dog comes) if the veterinarian prescribes/suggests anything for the dog. Good Luck.
Thank you! Very helpful!
You can add canned pumpkin, NOT PUMPKIN PIE MIX, to their meals. Make sure you buy 100% canned pumpkin, they are right next to each other on the shelf. It helps regulate the GI track and most dogs love it. A tablespoon with each meal. Also, more frequent walks, a pillow or bed from home that smells like their owner, sound machine or radio. Try to keep the dogs routine the same, meals, walks, it will help.
If diarrhea is the only manifestation of the dog's anxiety, then you can deal with it however unpleasant it may be. But I would discuss it again with the owner because usually SA is not just nervousness. You'll have dogs waiting by the door, pawing at the door and other destructive behaviors. I've had dogs with SA stay with me, even one who lives across the street and knows us well. Even that dog parked himself at the door or tried to climb up toward a window. The owners eventually turned to house sitting as a solution because dogs with SA are better able to tolerate their owner's absence in familiar surroundings.
Pumpkin is best used for constipation as it can loosen stool.
I found a helpful article online @ the bark .com. (vet-advice-treating-your-dogs-diarrhea ) Take a look around --- looks like a good site.
Pumpkin works for both conditions: https://www.1800petmeds.com/education/pumpkin-for-your-pets-digestive-health.htm
Did the owner/s know of anything that helps w/ separation anxiety for their dog? If not, IMO investing in a Thumdershirt/off-brand is worth it. Pheromone plugins, sprays, etc. can be soothing. A t-shirt the owner has worn might be helpful. YouTube has dog lullabies that seem to help… (cont.)
… though some of them seem to have sounds that some dogs (birds, ocean noises) so find ones they like. Also, be prepared for some accidents. Take her out to potty frequently but have good enzyme cleaner that will deter her from returning. Nature's Miracle is great; get gloves if that helps!
The owners aren't super aware of how she is when they aren't around besides the fact that she has the separation anxiety so I'm preparing as they said that she may have loose stool. She is super playful and excited around them and I believe I am the first sitter to ever board her. I have sat her.