Hi
My dog has to go into a kennel for a week at the end of the month, he's a rescue dog and isn't good around other dogs, so I am a bit worried about it, but am alone (my ex ditched me soon after we adopted the dog) I am sure my upsetness will be 'picked up' on by Simon (my dog) so I am trying hard to be positive and strong, has anyone got any ideas for things they can do when their dogs go into a kennel to make it slightly better for them/easier for them? I have found one that is good, just want to make it as easy as possible for him, as I think he may feel I'm letting him go and won't be coming back for him! (sad as it sounds!)
Help! x

It can help to let him take a familiar smelling blanket or toy
with him. some people, (not least the makers) claim a DAP (phemerone impregnated) collar can help, though personally I'm somewhat skeptical of that.
Dogs settle differently in kennels, some are fine, some settle after a day or two, some just don't like it. I would warn the kennel owners he's not good with dogs so they know to be careful, for everyone's sake, if moving him past other dogs or vica versa.
Could you maybe put him into the same kennels you're planing to use, for just a day or two, before he goes in for his week so he has same familarity with that place?

Thanks - I have used DAP plug in for him but it didn't really work. I will take his bedding and toys, but it'll be the longest time he's been in one. Think he was neglected by his previous owners as always follows me round the flat when I am at home and barks when I go out (hence the DAP) luckily thou I now have a friend who has him during the day so he's not on his own as long and is used to being with other people. He's 10 and is so lovely, but I don't like having to put him in a kennel. I've said about him being difficult with other dogs and they said they have a jack russell cross who goes who is the same, and I've asked him to be walked separately which they will do. Just a bit nervous as it's a week. But sure he'll be ok - thanks for replying, appreciate it x

Blanket, toy, and a T-Shirt that stinks of you.

Instead of PJs or nekid, sleep in a Tee from now until kennels. It will be heavily scented of you by then and a comfort to dog

I agree about taking his usual bed, bedding and something that smells of you. I would also take something like a 'Kong' toy with you and pack the centre of it out with a suitable filling,( there are ones specially designed or you could use cheese spread), it will provide a little distraction.
Hard as it may be when you drop him off at the kennels I would keep your farewell brief, calm and try not to show too much emotion or he will pick up on that.
I'm sure he will be fine.

My dog has been in kennels once (not because I wanted her to but because MIL who was supposed to be looking after her took her there without asking me) and she hated it to the extent of being damaged by the experience. I hate to worry you but if your dog is extremely sentimental she will get very upset by the experience so if there is an alternative at all please do look into it - a friend or relative who can help with its normal routine would be much preferable. My little one didn't trust me again for weeks once I got back and the kennel owner told us she had kept herself isolated for the entire week and cried every day, which was heartbreaking.

Some kennels recommend that you bring the dog to stay with them for a couple of half-days so the dog understands that you will come back and gets to know the people who will be caring for him/her.

I did this with my dog and it worked well. On both occasions the kennels took her out for a lovely long walk after I'd taken her to them, then she spent a couple of hours crashed out and relaxed in the kennel before I collected her.

It was only a small kennel (maximum six dogs) and they were able to introduce her to her 'carer' so she could build a bit of trust before she arrived for her week's holiday. It is also good for the owner as I was able to see how happy she was and it made leaving her a little less worrying. If your dog lacks confidence you could do this perhaps once a week before you leave, building up to a whole day in kennels, or even a single overnight stay.