Kennel Stress: Recognizing and Alleviating Your Pet’s Anxiety

Placing our furry friends in a kennel, whether it’s for a few hours or a few days, can be a
challenging experience, not just for us, but for our pets as well. The unfamiliar environment, the
separation from their human families, and the disruption of their usual routines can trigger
what is known as kennel stress. As pet parents, understanding kennel stress — its causes,
symptoms, and solutions — is crucial for safeguarding our pets’ emotional well-being during
such times.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into what kennel stress is, how to recognize it, and most
importantly, how we can alleviate our pets’ anxiety to make their kennel experience as
comfortable as possible. Stick with us as we navigate this essential aspect of pet care together.

Understanding Kennel Stress:

Kennel stress, also referred to as boarding stress, is a common issue many pets, especially dogs,
face when they are kept in unfamiliar environments for extended periods. Kennels are often
used for housing dogs when owners are out of town or during certain training programs.
Despite the best efforts of staff, a kennel environment can differ greatly from the warmth and
familiarity of a home, leading to various signs of stress in pets.

Why Do Some Pets Experience Kennel Stress?

While kennel stress can affect any pet, certain factors can make some pets more susceptible
than others. It’s important to remember that each animal is an individual and their reaction to
being in a kennel will be influenced by their unique temperament, past experiences, and even
their breed.

One primary reason why pet experience kennel stress is the sudden transition from a known,
comfortable environment to an unfamiliar one. Pets, especially dogs, are creatures of habit and
sudden changes can be disconcerting to them. This is especially true if they have never been in
a kennel before.

Separation from their owners is another significant cause. Many pets form strong bonds with
their human families and separation can lead to anxiety and stress. At home, pets are often
part of the family’s daily routine, involved in interactions, playtime, and outings. This level of
engagement and stimulation is often difficult to achieve in a kennel setting.

Common Signs of Kennel Stress:

One of the most noticeable signs of kennel stress is a behavior change. Pets suffering from
stress might display behaviors such as excessive barking or howling, pacing back and forth, or
exhibiting obsessive behaviors like excessive licking or chewing. They might also show signs of
aggression or fear, or even attempt to escape.

Changes in eating habits are also a common indication of stress. This could manifest as a loss of
appetite or, conversely, overeating. Both can be signs that your pet is uncomfortable or
anxious. Similarly, changes in sleeping patterns can also signify stress. They may either sleep
more than usual due to depression or anxiety or have trouble sleeping.
Physical symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or a dull coat can also be indicators of stress.
Some pets might also excessively shed or even experience sudden bald patches due to stress-
related behaviors like over-grooming.

Additionally, changes in social behavior can indicate stress. Pets may become withdrawn,
ignoring or avoiding interaction with humans or other pets. On the other hand, they may
become overly clingy when their owner is present.

Preventing Kennel Stress: Tips for Pet Owners

Pre-Kennel Visit: Before committing to a kennel, visit with your pet. This helps to familiarize
them with the new environment and can reduce anxiety when the time comes for a longer stay.
It also gives you a chance to observe the staff and facilities to ensure they meet your
expectations.

Bring Familiar Items: Pets find comfort in familiarity. Bringing along their favorite toys,
blankets, or even an article of your clothing can help make the kennel feel more like home.
These familiar items will carry the scents of home, providing additional comfort.

Diet Consistency: Maintain a consistent diet before and during their kennel stay. Dietary
changes can lead to digestive issues, adding to your pet’s stress. Ensure the kennel staff are
aware of your pet’s regular diet and any special dietary needs they may have.

The Role of Exercise and Social Interaction:

When it comes to preventing kennel stress, the importance of exercise and social interaction
cannot be overstated. These two aspects play a critical role in your pet’s overall mental and
physical health, directly impacting their ability to cope with stress.

Exercise: Regular physical activity is a must for all pets. Pets, particularly dogs, that are confined
in a kennel without adequate exercise can become anxious, stressed, and display destructive
behaviors. Ensure that the kennel provides regular exercise sessions. This could be in the form
of walks, play sessions, or access to an outdoor run. The more active your pet is, the less likely
they are to feel stressed.

Social Interaction: Pets are social creatures and require interaction for their emotional health.
Lack of social contact in a kennel environment can be stressful for pets. This can be particularly
problematic for dogs, who are pack animals and thrive in social environments.

When to Seek Professional Help?

While preventive measures can go a long way in managing kennel stress, there are times when
professional intervention becomes necessary. If you notice that your pet’s behavior has
significantly changed after their stay at the kennel or if they show severe signs of kennel stress,
such as persistent restlessness, aggression, lethargy, refusal to eat or drink, or other extreme
behaviors, it’s important to seek the help of a professional.

Final Thoughts:

Understanding and managing kennel stress in your pet is an important aspect of their overall
well-being. While a stay in the kennel can be a necessity for many pet owners, it doesn’t have
to be a distressing experience for your furry friend. With the right understanding of what
causes kennel stress and how it manifests, along with proactive measures for prevention and
intervention, you can make your pet’s time in the kennel a lot less stressful.
Remember that every pet is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Don’t
hesitate to seek professional help if needed – a comfortable and stress-free pet will make for a
happier home and a stronger pet-owner bond. Your journey with your pet is a shared one, and
overcoming the hurdle of kennel stress can be a significant milestone in that journey.