We picked up Cam from his kennels yesterday - it was his first time, and he'd been in for 5 days while we were at Glastonbury festival. He seemed really confused when we picked him up - he jumped all over me briefly, but I don't think he really twigged who I was. He ignored my OH completely - until we got in the car, then he gave him a good lick. :D  He was very quiet in the car all the way home (not like him), and only perked up when we got to the house - then he went crazy, and seems to have become increasingly happier. I have absolutely no concerns at all about the care he received in the kennels - Cam obviously loved his carer and looks healthy enough, although his coat is a bit dull.  It's the first time since we got him that he's experienced a real change in his routine (though we did put him into the kennels for a day prior to his stay, to familiarise him).

I guess my question is ... is it normal for dogs to seem a bit confused when they first come out of kennels? I do feel guilty - he has to go in again for two days at the end of the month because we're going away for a wedding. I'm hoping that he'll understand the process the second time, but I hate to see him with his ears in 'anxious' position. :(

Jo

Yep, normal really, Cam didn't expect to see you so imagine HIS surprise and confusion!!  Many dogs we board for a first time run straight past their owners and head for the field, they develop a routine.  He will be different next time I'm sure, although they do usually sleep for a good while when they get home, thats the good bit!!!!! :D
Dawn.

Jo - Cam seems to have enjoyed his weekend - did you enjoy yours??? :D

Margot

The first time we put Dill in kennels for longer than one or two nights, his reaction was EXACTLY the same - nice greeting, then very subdued in the car on the way home, and then mental for the next couple of days.  He settled back down to normal after that, so no need to worry.

Phil

Thanks everyone! That's put my mind at rest. :)

Glastonbury was great - except for the weather, which was pants. Although I had a fantastic time I never, never, never want to go camping again. Especially in the rain and gale force winds. :D

Would love to go again, but next time we'll rent a camper van and do it in style.

Oh yes, and the toilets are as bad as they're reputed to be. Ewwww, the memory still haunts me.

Highlight had to be spotting mad nudists as they wandered through a crowd of approximately 170,000 wearing nothing except a pair of wellies and a rucksack. Food was also fantastic, as were the many smaller, impromptu bands that were playing all over the place.

Jo :)

Yes, sign of a good kennels, my lot used to rush over to greet me and then rush back into their kennels or to the kennel maid to try and get let out into the exercise field, and after I had been worrying about them for days.