Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my dog when i go to work and leave them home alone all day?
When you leave your dog home alone all day while you go to work, several things can happen depending on your dog's temperament, age, and training:
Boredom and loneliness: Dogs are social animals and may feel lonely or bored without companionship. This can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing furniture or excessive barking.
Lack of exercise: Without regular physical activity, dogs can become restless or gain weight. Lack of exercise also affects their mental health.
Bathroom needs: Puppies and some adult dogs may have trouble holding their bladder for long periods, leading to accidents indoors.
Anxiety: Some dogs experience separation anxiety, which can cause stress-related behaviors such as pacing, drooling, or howling.
To help your dog while you're at work, consider options like dog training, pack walks, or day camp services. These provide social interaction, exercise, mental stimulation, and bathroom breaks, helping keep your dog happy and well-trained. Pickup and drop-off services can make this even easier for your schedule.
Boredom and neglect significantly impact a dog's quality of life and behavior. Dogs are social, intelligent animals that require mental stimulation, physical exercise, and interaction. When these needs are unmet, dogs can experience stress, anxiety, and frustration, leading to negative behaviors.
Common effects of boredom and neglect include:
Destructive Behavior: Chewing furniture, digging, or tearing household items as a way to relieve excess energy and frustration.
Excessive Barking or Whining: Vocalizing to seek attention or express distress.
Separation Anxiety: Heightened stress when left alone, sometimes resulting in self-harm or property damage.
Depression or Lethargy: Lack of interest in activities, decreased appetite, or withdrawal from interaction.
Hyperactivity or Restlessness: Difficulty settling down due to pent-up energy.
Aggression or Reactivity: Increased irritability or fear responses toward people or other animals.
Neglect, which often overlaps with boredom, further deteriorates a dog's physical and emotional health. It can lead to poor hygiene, malnutrition, and weakened immunity, compounding behavioral issues.
Providing regular exercise, mental enrichment through training or puzzle toys, socialization, and consistent interaction helps improve a dog's well-being. Addressing boredom and neglect is essential to maintain a healthy, balanced temperament and improve overall quality of life.
what are the BENEFITS of my dog going to weekly day camp?
A daily adventure that includes walking, training, breaks, photo time, and socializing with a pack of dogs offers numerous benefits for a dog’s physical and mental well-being:
Physical Exercise
Regular walking and play help maintain a healthy weight, build muscle strength, and improve cardiovascular health. Continuous movement throughout the day ensures the dog stays active and energetic.
Mental Stimulation
Training sessions challenge a dog’s mind, reinforcing good behavior and enhancing obedience. Learning new commands and practicing skills prevents boredom and promotes cognitive development.
Socialization
Being part of a pack provides crucial social interaction, helping dogs learn appropriate communication and social cues. This reduces anxiety and aggression, fostering well-adjusted and confident pets.
Emotional Well-being
Dogs thrive on companionship and feel more secure in a pack environment. Positive experiences, including play and rest in a group setting, reduce stress and promote happiness.
Rest and Recovery
Scheduled breaks allow dogs to rest and recharge, preventing overexertion. Combining activity with downtime balances energy levels throughout the day.
Positive Reinforcement through Photo Time
Capturing moments during adventures can reinforce bonding between dogs and handlers, serving as a motivational tool and helping track progress over time.
Overall, these structured daily adventures promote a balanced lifestyle that supports a dog’s health, behavior, and emotional needs, resulting in a happier, healthier companion.
Can any dog join the pack or is their a process i have to go through?
If your dog is not friendly with other dogs or lacks basic training, starting with private lessons is the most effective way to prepare them for our dog day camp adventures.
Initial Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your dog's behavior, temperament, and specific challenges. This helps us tailor a training plan suited to your dog's needs.
Basic Obedience: Private lessons focus on foundational commands like sit, stay, come, and loose leash walking. Teaching these skills ensures your dog is responsive and manageable in group settings.
Behavior Modification: For dogs with socialization issues, we introduce controlled exposure to other dogs in a safe environment. Gradual desensitization and positive reinforcement help reduce anxiety and reactivity.
Controlled Socialization: Once your dog shows progress, we arrange carefully monitored interactions with other dogs. This step is crucial to build confidence and improve social skills.
Progress Evaluation: Regular check-ins allow us to assess your dog’s readiness and adjust training accordingly. We focus on consistency and celebrate milestones.
Transition to Group Activities: When your dog demonstrates appropriate behavior and social skills, they are ready to join our pack walks and day camp. This phased approach ensures a smooth and positive experience for your dog and others.
By following this structured process, your dog will gain the skills and confidence necessary to enjoy our dog day camp adventures safely and happily.
Where in windham & Salem NH can i go to take my dog for a walk?
Public Parks and Trails in Windham, NH
Windham Rail Trail
Windham Town Forest
Indian Rock Town Forest
Nottingham West Town Forest
Range Road Town Forest
Cobbetts Pond Town Forest
Lookout Farm Conservation Area
Windham Youth Soccer Fields & Trails
Public Parks and Trails in Salem, NH
Salem Town Forest & Trail System
Windrift Park
Friendship Park
Vicki Lynn Memorial Playground
Riverfront Park
Canobie Lake Park (Amusement Park with walking trails)
Blanket Meadow Park
Rockingham Recreational Trail (partly runs through Salem)
These parks and trails offer various recreational opportunities including walking, hiking, and nature observation.
Dog-Friendly Places to Eat or Drink in Windham, NH
The Riverhouse Eatery & Pub
Outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome. Offers a casual menu with a variety of pub favorites.Windham Coffee Co.
Dog-friendly patio seating. Great spot for coffee and light snacks.99 Restaurant & Pub
Allows dogs in the outdoor seating area. Classic American dining with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Dog-Friendly Places to Eat or Drink in Salem, NH
The Old Salt Restaurant & Bar
Outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. Known for seafood and a relaxed dining experience.Tavern on the Run
Patio seating available for guests with dogs. A good place for casual drinks and bar food.Common Man Roadhouse
Dog-friendly outdoor tables. Offers American fare in a rustic setting.Pump House Brewery & Meatpacking Co.
Dogs allowed in the outdoor area. Local brewery with a robust menu and craft beers.
These locations typically require dogs to be leashed and well-behaved. It's always a good idea to call ahead to confirm current pet policies.
where can i get my dog groomed or buy pet treats in windham & salem Nh?
Pet Stores and Grooming Businesses in Windham, NH
Pet Supplies Plus
Services: Retail pet supplies, food, toys, and grooming products.
Location: Windham Plaza Shopping Center
Specialty: Wide variety of pet food brands and accessories, occasional grooming services or referrals.
Windham Veterinary Clinic
Services: Veterinary care with grooming services available.
Location: Main Street, Windham
Specialty: Full-service vet care combined with basic grooming such as baths and nail trims.
Paws & Claws Grooming
Services: Professional grooming services including haircuts, baths, nail trims, and ear cleaning.
Location: Near Windham center
Specialty: Custom grooming styles for dogs and cats, experienced groomers.
Pet Stores and Grooming Businesses in Salem, NH
PetSmart
Services: Full-service pet store with grooming and training options.
Location: Mall Road, Salem
Specialty: Large retail inventory of pet products, in-store grooming with trained staff.
Uncorked Pet Salon
Services: Grooming salon for dogs and cats, offering baths, haircuts, and other grooming services.
Location: Salem Town Center
Specialty: Personalized grooming services in a friendly environment.
Salem Animal Hospital & Grooming
Services: Veterinary care with grooming integrated into services.
Location: Main Street, Salem
Specialty: Health-focused grooming, stress-free handling for anxious pets.
The Doghouse Unlimited
Services: Grooming and pet boutique.
Location: Downtown Salem
Specialty: Grooming, specialty pet products, and accessories.
These businesses in Windham and Salem provide a comprehensive range of services including retail pet supplies, grooming, and veterinary care. Some offer convenient pick-up and drop-off options for grooming and training services, supporting pet owners seeking reliable care and maintenance for their dogs and cats.