Written by Laurie Yost, owner of Playful Pups Retreat
Playful Pups Retreat is proud to be a Fear Free certified facility. Laurie also holds the highest level of certification through PACCC (Professional Animal Care Certification Council) with a CPACO certification (Certified Professional Animal Care Operator).
For pet parents, leaving their furry family members behind with traveling can be an emotionally challenging experience. However, choosing the right pet care facility who is attentive to meeting your pup’s needs can make all the difference. A facility that offers an assortment of enrichment activities will better ensure your dog’s mental and physical well-being while you are apart. At Playful Pups Retreat we put a great deal of emphasis on enrichment activities such as nature walks, sports time sessions, cuddle time or playgroups. They are not just extras but rather these activites play a crucial role in meeting your dog’s emotional needs when they’re away from home.
Nature Walks for Mental Stimulation
Nature walks are a wonderful way to stimulate your dog’s senses and provide mental enrichment. Exploring the outdoors, smelling different scents, and experiencing new sights and sounds can keep their minds engaged and reduce anxiety associated with being away from home. These walks can offer an opportunity for your dog to connect with nature and tap into their primal instincts. Playful Pups Retreat’s overnight lodging facility is located on 19 wooded acres with a beautiful nature trail that meanders throughout the property, allowing furry guests a plethora of sensory stimulation.
Sports Time Sessions for Physical Exercise
Sports time sessions, which include activities like fetch, agility courses, or frisbee, help burn off excess energy, calming the canine mind and lead to the ability to relax and rest in their boarding room, which is important when a dog is away from home.
Playgroups for Social Dogs
Dogs are social animals, and many thrive in the company of their furry friends. Playgroups allow dogs to interact and play which helps improve their social skills and overall happiness. For social dogs, play sessions provide a chance to make new friends and burn off excess energy, resulting in a more positive and enjoyable boarding experience.
Cuddle Time for Emotional Comfort
Some dogs, particularly small breed and seniors, often require extra love and attention. Cuddle time sessions offer one-on-one time with a caregiver providing comfort and reassurance. This helps ensure your dog feels safe and loved during their stay.
Enrichment activities are not just about physical exercise, they cater to your dog’s emotional needs. These activities offer a sense of routine and familiarity in a new environment, reducing stress and anxiety. When your dog is mentally and emotionally engaged, they are more likely to feel safe and to have a happy and relaxing time when away from home.
Choosing a pet care facility that offers enrichment activities is a thoughtful way to ensure your dog has a fun-filled time away from home that meets their unique needs and preferences. So, the next time you plan a trip, opt for a facility that goes the extra mile in caring for your furry friend’s overall well-being. Learn more about the extra activities offered at Playful Pups Retreat. <here>.
