Holiday Dog Boarding Checklist

Planning your pooch’s upcoming stay at DoGone Fun? We’ve got a handy guide to help you plan your hound’s holiday.

Step 1: Get to Know Our Facility’s Amenities

We are more than just a boarding facility. We offer a fun and festive doggy play area, as well as training and grooming services. Before you book, decide how you'd like to pamper your pet during their stay. We can work on your hound's holiday manners during their stay, or schedule a full grooming session before they return home from the holidays. We invite you to tour our facilities beforehand, so you are familiar with our services and confident in the care of your pet.

Step 2: Check Your Pup’s Shot Records

Immunizations must be current prior to your visit. Please bring a printed record of immunizations including:

·         Rabies

·         Distemper

·         Parvo

·         Lepto

·         Para-Influenza

·         Hepatitis/Adenovirus

·         Respiratory Bordetella

·         H3N2 and H3N8 Flu

Step 3: Try a ‘Mini-Break’

If this is your canine companion's first stay away, consider a trial-run (or two) at DoGone Fun's doggy daycare. Each time you pick up your dog, it will make him more confident in the knowledge you will return. This practice will ensure a stay free of separation anxiety.

Step 4: Pack for the Main Event

When packing your car for your pup's stay, don't leave home without:

·         Vaccination records
A recent copy ensures there are no miscommunications.

·         Contact information
Be sure to leave your most current phone number(s), and the number of a local friend/family member your pet knows and trusts, in the rare event your pet has any issues during their stay.

·         Medications
Bring all medications your dog regularly uses in their original containers, so dosage and veterinary information are included.

·         Favorite food & treats
To avoid digestive upset from dietary changes, be sure to pack your pooch’s regular food and favorite treats. Dividing them up into individual baggies prevents confusion and ensures the proper serving size at each meal.

·         Bedding favorites
If your pup is partial to a particular bed, you are welcome to bring it along for their stay.

·         Beloved toys
Pack your pal’s favorite pet-friendly toys, marking them clearly with your dog’s name to make sure they don’t get misplaced. Only bring items designed for dogs, avoiding those that present choking hazards such as rawhide and rope bones.

Don’t wait until there’s “no vacancy.” Book your holiday boarding accommodations at DoGone Fun today!

This article was previously published at: https://www.dogonefunchicago.com/boarding-a-dog/holiday-dog-boarding-checklist/

Grooming Tips for Winter Weather

In the cold winter months, it’s easy to minimize the importance of dog grooming since your pup spends most of their time inside. Many owners also mistakenly believe it is necessary to let a dog’s winter coat grow thick for protection in winter weather. These misconceptions, however, can lead to health problems in your canine companion. Grooming in winter months may be more critical than at other times of the year.

Why Winter Grooming is Essential

Long coats do not inherently ‘winterize’ your dog. Sending your ungroomed dog out in the winter to return with long, soggy, matted hair will cause your pooch to be cold, wet, uncomfortable, and susceptible to infections. Matted fur does not provide insulation and warmth. It leads instead to discomfort, hot spots, pain, and potential infections below the skin that can cause your pup unnecessary suffering.

A Well-Groomed Dog is Beautiful from the Inside - Out

Grooming is essential to your dog’s good health, keeping him in top condition. What grooming tasks can ensure a healthy pup in the cold winter months?

·         Paw Protection
Snow, salt, mud, and cold temperatures are a recipe for cracked pads, irritation, and infection. Feet must be wiped and cleaned after every outing, particularly between pads. Purchasing inexpensive waterproof dog booties can make this task easier.

·         Moisturizing Baths
Dogs often need more grooming in the winter to control mud, tame matted fur, and control skin dryness. Giving your dog moisturizing baths is a great way to relieve dry, chafed winter skin and manage matted fur. Using a gentle dog-friendly shampoo and highly moisturizing conditioner are recommended. Be sure to keep your dog indoors following baths until completely dry to guard against hypothermia.

·         The Right Winter Hairstyle
While dogs do rely on their coats to stay warm outdoors in the winter, most live in a heated home. Keeping their coat trimmed can keep your pooch more comfortable indoors. If you're concerned about the occasional outdoor outing, a doggie sweater or coat could work.

·         Regular Brushing
Winter coats can hide health hazards. Regularly brush your pup’s coat to remove loose hair, tangles, and distribute skin oils. Watch for lumps, bumps, and sores, calling your vet if you spot any issues.

·         Timely Nail Trims
Nails can overgrow in the winter when they're not worn down by outdoor activity.

Keep your dog beautifully healthy year-round. Contact DoGone Fun and book your pup a winter grooming session today.

This article was previously published at: https://www.dogonefunchicago.com/grooming-a-dog/grooming-tips-for-winter-weather/