Question:
My daughter has a 10-year-old Lab mix named Darma. She has never been boarded for any reason. My daughter lives in Delaware and is thinking of driving to Texas in December to attend her brother's wedding. Her vet said Darma would probably not eat and possibly die if separated from the family. Is this scenario a possibility? What are your thoughts?
L.H., Granbury, TX Sep 13, 2009
Answer:
An old dog that has never been to a boarding kennel could become ill from separation anxiety. The veterinarian knows this dog better than I do, so I would not make light of his warnings.
My advice is to make the trip as short as possible and have in-home care, someone who can stay with Darma 24 hours a day in either in the dog's home or in theirs. Darma should meet the person and get to know him or her a few days before the anticipated separation. Check for such help at www.craigslist.org and www.pettrackers.com. Many active retirees should consider such a job, since many dogs and cats do not board well and in-home pet sitters are hard to find.
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