Easing Anxiety: Preparing Your Pet for Home Boarding in Byron Bay

Is It Separation Anxiety?

True separation anxiety often involves behaviours that only happen when you're gone or preparing to leave:

• Persistent distress vocalisation (barking, howling)
• Destructive behaviour (chewing, digging, especially at exits)
• Indoor accidents (if otherwise house-trained)
• Pacing, excessive drooling, or frantic escape attempts
• Ignoring food/water only when alone

If you see these signs, preparation for any separation is essential.

Why Choose Small-Group Home Boarding for Anxious Pets?

Unlike large, noisy kennels which can overwhelm anxious pets, our Byron Bay Pet Sitting home boarding offers a calmer, more personalised experience:

• Home Environment: Familiar sights and sounds reduce stress.
• Small Group Setting: We care for a maximum of 4 dogs, ensuring individual attention and minimising social overwhelm.
• Consistent Routine: We stick closely to your pet's feeding, potty, and medication schedule.
• High Supervision: Constant, caring supervision allows us to spot and manage stress cues quickly.

This environment is specifically designed to be less stressful, making it a great option for many dogs who struggle with being left.

Preparing Your Pet for Their Stay With Us

Success relies heavily on preparation before you travel:

1. Veterinary Check-up: Rule out medical causes for anxiety. Discuss calming supplements or short-term anti-anxiety medication with your vet specifically for the boarding period. Do this well in advance.
2. Meet & Greet (Essential!): We require a Meet & Greet so your pet can explore our home environment and meet us with you present. This builds positive associations.
3. Trial Stay(s) (Crucial!): Before any overnight stay, we strongly recommend one or more trial daycare sessions. This helps your pet acclimatise gradually and allows us to assess how they cope in your absence. This step is vital for anxious pets.
4. Share Their World: Provide us with detailed information on their routine, triggers, calming strategies, favourite treats, vet details, and emergency contacts.
5. Pack Comforts: Bring familiar items like their bed (if practical), a recently worn t-shirt with your scent, and favourite safe toys (confirm suitability with us).

During Their Stay: Our Commitment

While your pet boards with us, we focus on:

• Maintaining a calm, positive atmosphere.
• Sticking closely to their routine.
• Providing safe enrichment (like puzzle toys or appropriate chews).
• Monitoring closely for any signs of stress.
• Sending you agreed-upon updates for your peace of mind.

A Smoother Separation is Possible!

Leaving an anxious pet doesn't have to be traumatic. By choosing a suitable, low-stress environment like our small-group home boarding and preparing thoroughly with trial visits and open communication, you can significantly improve their experience.

Ready to discuss care for your anxious companion? Reach out to us at Byron Bay Pet Sitting! Due to our limited capacity (max 4 dogs), booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak Byron Bay holiday times.