One of your loved ones is going away for a while and has asked you to look after their dog in their absence? You can’t refuse him this service, but you want to be sure you’re doing the right thing? We have some tips for you.
Welcoming a dog into your home is an enriching experience. However, good care of the animal requires special commitment and responsibility. Whether caring for a few hours or a few days, taking care of a dog involves meeting its physical, emotional and social needs.
A first meeting before real custody
Whether the dog knows you or not, allowing him to discover the environment in which he will live without his human is a good way to prepare for custody.
A few days before, spend time with the dog and his owner at your home, and also some time without his owner. See how he behaves. If you notice that he is too stressed, repeat the operation over several days.
Take all the necessary information about the dog
Write down on a piece of paper everything you might need to know about the dog and keep this paper handy: food ration and meal times, number and duration of walks, medications he may need to take, orders given to him. obeys, veterinarian number and owner’s number.
Take the dog’s things
As much as possible, use things the dog is used to having. Take his leash and collar as well as his basket. Give him his usual toys, treats and kibble. Leave him a blanket or piece of clothing with his owner’s scent on it.
Keeping the dog’s habits and routine
Dogs love their little habits. Do not create sudden changes in the routine of the dog you are looking after. Maintain his meal and walk times, play the games he prefers with him and, if you have to change times, do it gradually.
Set your limits from the start
If you don’t want the dog to climb on the sofa or on your bed when he is allowed to do so at home, you need to set your limits from the start. Be firm, but don’t yell or punish him. A simple “no” will be enough to make him understand that he must stay in his place.
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Make time for the dog in your schedule
A dog takes time, much more than just walking. Schedule time each day in your schedule to play with him and cuddle. You can even take the opportunity to teach him a new trick to show his master when he comes home.
Do not leave the dog unattended
If you have to leave the dog alone inside your home (because you are going to work, for example), make sure you have properly secured the room in which he will stay. Outside, even in an enclosed garden, do not leave it unattended. He could quickly escape through an unexpected place.
Read alsoHow long can you leave a dog alone?
Communicate regularly with owners
If separation can be difficult for the dog, it can also be difficult for the owner. Do not hesitate to regularly send news of the dog by messages or photos and videos.
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