After a full day of running, playing, and making new friends at day camp, your dog deserves some well-earned R&R. Just like we can feel tired after an active day, our pets need a little downtime, too. Here are some tips to help your pup rest and relax after an exciting day at Pet Paradise.
1: Rest, Relax, and Recharge
All that zooming around means your dog is probably ready to snooze. They've been running, playing, socializing, and exploring all day at camp, so make sure they have a quiet, comfortable spot to unwind. Your pup needs a special place of their own away from the hustle and bustle where they can kick up their paws and recharge after a day of play. It’s normal for dogs to need extra rest after a fun-filled visit!
Creating a cozy spot for your furry friend is key to their well-being. A soft, supportive bed, blanket, or mat is the paw-fect way to give them the comfort they need. Why not try an orthopedic dog bed for at-home use? Since pets tend to sleep in their beds every night at home, a high-quality orthopedic bed can be a great investment. Veterinarians say these beds can help distribute your pet’s weight evenly, helping to eliminate uncomfortable pressure points while your dog rests. Plus, they’re great for pets of all sizes and ages!
In addition to providing your dog with a cozy space of their own, make sure they have plenty of fresh water and a balanced meal. After all of the day camp excitement, they might be a bit more hungry or thirsty than usual – don’t worry, this is normal! The extra activity can lead to more calories burned, so they might be more hungry or thirsty than usual. They may even need to eat a bigger meal than usual. If you aren’t sure about how much to feed your pet, our NewDay veterinarians are here to help! Your pet’s appetite should level out once they’ve gotten used to a new day camp routine.
2: Quality Time and Affection
After day camp, why not kick your feet up and enjoy some quality quiet time with your best friend? Your dog will feel safe, loved, and totally content.
Spending time with your dog after a long day at camp is not just fun for you; it's important for them, too! It helps strengthen your bond and provides your pet with the love and affection they need. Plus, it lets them know that after all the fun and excitement, they still have their favorite human by their side.
While your dog is calm, offering treats and praise reinforces their good behavior and helps to strengthen your bond even more. This is an ideal time to engage in gentle interactive playtime or training. Reward your dog for good behavior with treats, praise, and lots of behind-the-ear scratches. It's an excellent way to reinforce positive behaviors and build trust.
3: Post-Camp Grooming
Dogs can come home a little messy after a day of fun, and a good brush and wipe-down can make all the difference. Give them a gentle brush to remove any dirt, debris, or knots from their coat. Veterinarians recommend regular brushing to help prevent matting and to help monitor and catch any skin conditions before they become an issue.
In addition to brushing, a quick wipe-down can also help your dog look and feel their best after a day of play. Don’t forget to wipe down their paws, and thoroughly check for any debris. Make sure your pet's nails aren’t getting too long, as long nails can affect mobility and cause discomfort. Regular nail trims prevent overgrowth, and our groomers are happy to give your pet a nail trim or pedicure to help maintain your pet’s paws.
4: Health Monitoring and Veterinary Care
While most pups come home from day camp feeling happy and tired, it’s a good idea to monitor your dog for any abnormal behaviors. You know your pet best, so always keep an eye out for anything unusual, and let your vet know if you notice anything off!
Watch for signs like excessive panting, limping, or reluctance to move. If your dog seems lethargic or uninterested in their usual activities, it might be time to contact a veterinarian. While rare, any major behavioral changes could be a sign of a health issue. Keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, and if anything seems off, give your vet a call. Our NewDay veterinarians are always here to help!
Did you know that when you have a NewDay Veterinary Care Wellness Plan, your pet gets unlimited office visits and routine exams at no additional cost? Core vaccines needed for day camp are also included in all wellness plans. Plus, you’ll save on Day Camp with our Camp + Care discount program.
After an action-packed day at camp, your dog deserves some downtime to rest and unwind. By providing a comfy spot to relax, a little TLC, and some post-camp grooming, you’ll help them wind down and relax. After all, nothing beats ending a big day with a happy, tired dog curled up by your side.
If you’ve never been to Pet Paradise, get a FREE first day of camp or a FREE first night of boarding. That’s One Free Stay or Play – on us!
