Four Tips For Boarding An Aggressive Dog
If your dog tends to be a bit aggressive towards other dogs or perhaps even towards humans, you may be worried about having to send him to the boarder while you're away. There's a chance he might bite or otherwise injure someone or someone else's dog. But while boarding an aggressive dog does present some challenges, it can be done safely and effectively if you follow these tips.
Find an experienced, respected boarding facility.
There are facilities out there that employ people who have extensive experience with dogs -- including aggressive dogs. You'll need to carefully examine the facilities you're considering to ensure they fall into this category. A boarding facility at a vet's office may be a good bet. You know that the people who will be handling your dog are experts -- and if the dog should need to be sedated or otherwise treated, the facilities and people to do so are right there.
Provide as much information about your dog's behavior as possible.
Aggression is so much easier to handle when you know when to expect it. So, document as many details as possible about your dog's behavior. Make a list of times when he is most likely to show aggression. (For example, maybe he does it mostly in the morning when you feed him or at night when he is tired.) Also, note anything you do that seems to cause your dog to act aggressively. Does he act out if you raise your voice? Maybe he does not like to be surprised. Provide the boarding facility with this information so that they have a better idea of how to handle your dog without inciting aggression.
Provide the right equipment.
If your dog needs to be muzzled at certain times, make sure you bring your muzzle to the boarder. If you use a shock collar or other training devices, bring those too, and give the staff an idea of how you use them effectively.
Provide an emergency contact.
Do you have a friend in the area who is familiar with your dog? Leaving their number with the boarder is a good idea. This way, if the boarding facility does have a huge problem with your dog while you are gone, there will be someone in the area who can come pick up your dog or take other necessary measures.
Many boarding facilities are willing to take aggressive dogs as long as you follow the precautions above. The most important thing is to find a facility where you think your dog will feel comfortable -- and where the staff are equipped to manage him. Check out places like Marquette Animal Hospital to explore your options.