Holly is a 9 month old Labrador Retriever that came to Wag Central for her first boarding stay of over a week. The Wag Team noticed how timid Holly was when her Personality Profile was done. It was then that the team decided to put together a personalized plan for Holly, knowing that she would be spending a great deal of time with us. Upon meeting Holly, we knew she was a sweet girl, and just needed some help coming out of her shell. We decided to approach her first experience staying with us as the only chance we had to make Holly feel safe, loved and happy at Wag Central.
When Holly first checked in, she was very shy with the other dogs, as well as humans. We let her settle in on her first day by hanging out in a play area by herself so she could take in the sights and sounds of the other dogs, with the ability to do through-the-fence greetings on her terms. The next day we paired her with another super sweet Labrador named Riley. Riley helped her to come out of her shell a bit and realize that Wag is a fun place to be!
After a day with Riley, we moved her to a slightly bigger group of dogs. This is when Holly really began to blossom! Holly soon figured out that staying at Wag is actually quite enjoyable, and that the daycare provided during boarding is the best! By the end of Holly’s time at Wag, we were greeted every morning by a happy, tail-wagging Holly who was ready and excited to take on the day. She spent her time in daycare running around and playing like crazy with anywhere from 6-8 other dogs who shared similar play styles and temperaments. At the end of her stay she went home with her dad, smelling beautiful from her complimentary bath, full of confidence and excited for her next visit!
Holly’s story is one of many we encounter with daycare and boarding clients alike. Many dogs are timid and unsure of new environments and new people. We prides ourselves on taking the time to meet each dog during their Personality Profile to decide what kind of Wagger they are – shy, confident, happy go lucky, etc. With that determination, our team knows just how much extra each dog might need when they come stay or play with us. Holly’s story is one we feel is worth telling, as it is a testament to all that we stand for. Holly’s stay here and baby steps of progress are a tribute to how Wag Central’s innovative and personalized approach to daycare and boarding embraced the shy Wagger that Holly was, yet allowed her to feel comfortable and engage. Angela and the Wag Team were able to watch and celebrate how a well laid plan of care, socialization, emotional support and recreation all contribute to making the Wag Central facility Holly’s new home away from home. We welcome her into this family with open arms!