Your pet will undoubtedly be happy to see you after your trip. Following a few simple steps will help ease the transition back to home life.

• Overexcitement may make a dog pant a lot and act thirsty. He is probably not really thirsty and had plenty of water available at the facility. Give him a few ice cubes to tide him over until he settles down.
• Food: ditto. Be aware that excessive drinking and eating may lead to digestive upsets and bloating. Do not feed your pet for at least three hours after coming home from the pet care facility and then limit the food and water you provide until he has settled back into home life.
• Walk your pet upon arrival or allow access to a yard area. Excitement may also cause a change in urination or bowel movements outside his normal schedule.
• Give your pet some personalized attention — some play time or sitting and petting or brushing him will help him get through the excitement stage and calm down.
• A stay at a pet care facility can be very exciting and some dogs charge around barking at other dogs and having a wonderful time. These dogs often leave the facility exhausted but happy and sleep a lot for the first couple of days after they are back home.
• Re-establish home patterns by following a normal schedule. Pets love following a schedule; it makes them feel safe and secure.
• If your cat is normally allowed to go outside, after you pick kitty up from the facility, be sure to keep her in the house for a few days before allowing her to go out. Just as she had to adjust to the facility, so will she have to adjust to being home again. Allow her to find that “at home” feeling again before letting her out of the house.

This article is provided as a general overview of the topic. Always consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.

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