Planning a vacation, business trip, or a weekend getaway, but your dog can't come with you? One solution that more and more dog owners are choosing is dog hotels. But is it always the best option? How do you know if your dog is ready for it? And what can you do to make their stay there as painless as possible?
In this text, we explore the advantages and challenges of dogs in hotels and provide practical tips on how to prepare them for separation.
When is a hotel a good option?
When is a dog hotel not ideal?
If your pet suffers from severe separation anxiety, it's probably not a good idea to leave them in a dog hotel. Also, if the dog is not vaccinated or if they are puppies who are just getting used to their daily routine, staying in a hotel can cause them great stress.
In that case, private pet-sitters, friends, or relatives whom the dog knows might be a better option.
Tips for making the hotel stay easier
If you've decided on a hotel, here are a few things you can do to help your dog cope with the change:
🐾 1. Arrange a short test stay
Before a longer stay, arrange one or two shorter stays – for a few hours or overnight – to help your dog gradually get used to it.
🐾 2. Bring familiar items
Bring your dog's bed or blanket or a toy with the scent of home. This provides emotional security.
🐾 3. Give detailed instructions to the staff
Write down all habits, food, favorite dog toys, medications (if any). The more information, the better. Also, bring the veterinary booklet in case of any accident and leave the details of the vet the dog usually sees.
🐾 4. Leave something with your scent
A T-shirt you wore for a day or two can help your dog feel less lonely.
🐾 5. Bring dog treats
To help the dog relax and get used to the new environment, dog treats often provide additional security and a positive experience during the stay.
🐾 6. Bring necessary equipment and cosmetics
No one knows your dog better than you do. So, if you know they suffer from any problems, e.g., sensitive skin, bring the products they use at home, such as natural shampoos or detangling sprays, to avoid unwanted irritations.
🐾 7. Maintain contact
Many hotels offer to send photos or short videos to assure you that everything is fine.
Conclusion
A dog hotel can be an excellent solution if the dog is well-socialized and you choose a verified place with good conditions. However, every animal is different – the most important thing is to listen to your dog's needs and behavior.
Ultimately, with good preparation, your pet can also have their own little "vacation" while you travel worry-free.
Sometimes staying in a good hotel is even a better option than taking them on long trips, especially if it involves long drives, changes in routine, crowds, or heat, which can cause significant stress for dogs.
In some destinations, dogs spend most of the day cooped up in a hotel room anyway – and that's not exactly a special experience for them.
While some might think it's selfish, we believe this is also a form of caring for your dog.
When you leave them in a safe environment, with familiar things, proper care, and friendly staff – dogs often relax so much that their stay becomes truly enjoyable.
You won't be the first owner to be told by the hotel: "Your dog doesn't want to go home!"
➡️ Check out our selection of treats and cosmetics for a safe and peaceful stay for your dog, wherever they may be!