When you’re planning a trip or need to be away from home, finding a safe and reliable dog boarding facility for your furry friend is crucial. While you’re away, it’s important to ensure that your dog is well taken care of, feels comfortable, and receives plenty of attention. Whether it’s their first time or they’re experienced boarders, the following dog boarding tips will help ensure your dog has a positive and stress-free experience while you’re gone.
1. Choosing the Right Dog Boarding Facility: Dog Boarding Tips
The first step in ensuring your dog’s safety and comfort is selecting a reputable dog boarding facility.
Research and Reviews
Start by researching local boarding kennels or pet hotels. Read reviews on trusted websites like Google Reviews, Yelp, or Facebook. Word of mouth from other pet owners is also invaluable. Look for facilities with experienced staff, clean environments, and good customer service.
Ask About the Facility’s Policies
Every boarding facility will have its own set of rules, so it’s important to ask about their policies before booking. Key questions to ask include:
- Vaccination requirements: Does the facility require proof of current vaccinations (e.g., rabies, distemper, Bordetella)?
- Exercise and playtime routines: How often do dogs get outside for exercise and playtime?
- Staff-to-dog ratio: What is the staff-to-dog ratio to ensure your pet receives the attention they need?
- Emergency procedures: How do they handle emergencies like illness or accidents?
Facility Tour
If possible, schedule a tour of the boarding facility. This will allow you to inspect the cleanliness, safety measures, and overall environment. Ensure the facility has:
- Separate areas for dogs of different sizes or temperaments.
- Secure fencing and doors to prevent escapes.
- Clean, well-maintained kennels with proper ventilation and space for your dog to move around.
2. Preparing Your Dog for Boarding: Dog Boarding Tips
The better prepared your dog is, the more likely they will have a positive boarding experience. Here’s how to help your dog adjust.
Get Your Dog Used to the Boarding Environment
If this is your dog’s first time boarding, it’s a good idea to acclimate them to the facility. Many dog boarding services offer trial days or half-day stays, where your dog can get used to the environment and the staff. This allows them to adjust gradually and gives you a chance to assess how they react to the new setting.
Pack Your Dog’s Essentials
To make your dog feel more comfortable, bring along a few familiar items:
- Favorite bed or blanket: Familiar scents can help calm your dog in a new environment.
- Favorite toys: Some comfort items, like their favorite chew toy, can make them feel more at ease.
- Food and treats: Bring your dog’s regular food to avoid digestive upset, along with any special treats or medications they may need.
- Leash and collar: A well-fitting collar with identification tags is essential for safety, especially if your dog needs to go on walks or outings.
Update Identification Information
Ensure your dog’s ID tags are up-to-date with your current contact information, especially if they’ll be spending time in a new environment. If you haven’t already, consider getting your dog microchipped for added safety.
3. Managing Your Dog’s Health Needs: Dog Boarding Tips
Make sure you address your dog’s health and medical needs before boarding them.
Health Records and Medications
Provide the boarding facility with your dog’s medical records, including proof of vaccinations, flea/tick treatments, and any ongoing medical conditions. If your dog requires medication, make sure to supply clear instructions on how and when to administer them.
Dietary Needs
If your dog has a special diet or food sensitivities, be sure to communicate this clearly to the boarding staff. Label the food containers with your dog’s name and feeding instructions to ensure they’re given the correct amount at the appropriate times.
Flea and Tick Prevention
Make sure your dog is up to date on flea and tick prevention treatments before boarding. A reputable facility will require that all dogs be flea-free to prevent infestations.
4. Setting Your Dog Up for Success: Dog Boarding Tips
A few practical tips can make your dog’s boarding experience more comfortable and reduce any anxiety they may feel.
Stick to Your Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, so try to maintain your dog’s daily routine as much as possible. Keep feeding times, walks, and sleep schedules consistent. If your dog has specific preferences (like a favorite spot to sleep or how they like to be petted), share that information with the staff so they can keep things as familiar as possible.
Leave Your Dog with a Familiar Scent
Leaving an item with your scent, like a blanket or T-shirt, can help provide comfort and reduce separation anxiety. The familiar scent will act as a reminder that you’ll be back for them.
Don’t Overstress Your Dog
Dogs are intuitive and can pick up on their owners’ emotions. If you’re feeling anxious about leaving your dog, they may sense that and become stressed as well. Try to remain calm and confident when dropping your dog off. Keep your goodbyes brief but affectionate. Prolonged farewells can make the experience harder for both you and your dog.
5. Communication with the Boarding Facility: Dog Boarding Tips
Maintaining good communication with the boarding facility can help you feel more at ease and keep your dog’s experience positive.
Check-in for Updates
Many boarding facilities offer updates, including photos or videos, so you can check in on your dog during their stay. If your dog tends to get homesick or anxious, regular updates can give you peace of mind.
Emergency Contact Information
Ensure the facility has your up-to-date emergency contact information, as well as the contact information for your veterinarian in case of an emergency.
Ask for Special Requests
If your dog has specific needs—whether it’s extra cuddling, a special diet, or frequent potty breaks—make sure to let the staff know. Most reputable boarding facilities will be happy to accommodate your dog’s needs.
6. After Boarding: Reunion and Adjustment
Reuniting with your dog after boarding can be a joyous occasion, but it may take a little time for your dog to readjust.
Give Your Dog Time to Re-adjust
Your dog may be a bit tired or have a burst of energy after being away from home. They might also need some time to reacclimate to their routine, especially if they’ve been away for several days or weeks.
Monitor Behaviour for Changes
In some cases, dogs may experience temporary behavioral changes after boarding, such as clinginess or a mild upset stomach. This is usually normal, but if you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog boarding facility and preparing your dog properly can make all the difference in ensuring a positive experience for your pet while you’re away. By following these dog boarding tips, you can help your furry friend feel comfortable, safe, and loved, even when you’re not around. Whether it’s their first time or they’re seasoned travelers, a little preparation and communication go a long way in ensuring your dog enjoys their stay and looks forward to their next adventure.
