7 Things to Do before Checking Your Dog into a Pet Boarding Facility

It may be tough to need to leave your dog behind when traveling, but sometimes it's the most practical decision that you can make. You might need to take a vacation, have to deal with a work trip, or find yourself facing an unexpected family emergency in which you can’t immediately deal with your pet’s needs the way you would like. 

In these situations, finding a reliable boarding facility can do wonders for your peace of mind. These facilities can provide your furry friend with the care they need while you're away. But it’s also important to make sure your dog is fully prepared for the experience.

Proper preparation isn’t just a matter of sorting out logistics; it’s also about taking steps to preserve your pet’s comfort, well-being, and the continuity of the habits they keep while you’re at home. A little effort before drop-off can go a long way in making sure your dog adjusts well to their temporary home. Plus, your dog will likely be sharing space with other animals at your chosen boarding facility, so you’ll also need to accomplish certain tasks that will help keep everyone involved safe and healthy for the duration of their stay.

This PrideBites article will outline some essential steps every pet owner should take before boarding their pets. Accomplish the following tasks and you’ll be able to set your dog up for a smooth and stress-free check-in:

1) Pack Your Dog’s Comfort Items

A touch of familiarity can make it that much easier for your dog to adjust to a new place. While boarding facilities strive to provide comfort to their furry clients, nothing can replicate the sense of security that comes from items your pet knows well. 

Pack their favorite custom dog blankets, wholesale dog toys, or even an old T-shirt with your scent on it to ease their anxiety and make the boarding experience feel less stressful to them. These small comforts will go a long way in helping your pup feel more at home, even when you’re not around.

2) Prepare Medication and Feeding Instructions

Routine is critical for pets, especially when they’re in a new environment. If your dog takes any medication or has special dietary needs, clear and precise instructions will make it easier for the staff at your boarding facility to meet these needs during the stay. 

It’s a good idea to label everything—from food containers to medication bottles—so that staff members can easily follow your guidelines. Don’t forget to pack enough supplies for the entire stay, plus a little extra in case of any delays. 

3) Make Sure Your Dog Is Flea- and Tick-Free

Boarding facilities may seem like controlled environments, but one unchecked pet can introduce fleas or ticks that quickly spread. Knowing that, make sure your dog is well-protected before you drop them off. Start by giving your pet a thorough check before the stay, and keep them on a regular flea and tick prevention program. 

Some boarding centers may also require proof of preventative treatments, so it’s smart to have those records ready as well. In doing so, you’ll protect not just your dog, but the entire facility from potential infestations.

4) Gather Vaccination and Health Records

Your chosen facility will likely require proof of vaccinations as part of their effort to create a safe environment for every pet in their care. Diseases like rabies, distemper, and Bordetella can spread quickly in shared spaces, so most facilities ask owners to provide updated vaccination records. 

Before booking, check that your dog’s vaccinations are current and keep copies of their health records handy. This is both for the safety of your pet and a responsibility to other pet owners using the facility.

5) Tour the Facility

Seeing the facility in person is one of the best ways to gauge whether it’s the right fit for your dog. Pictures or website reviews may give an impression, but nothing beats walking through the space yourself. 

Pay attention to cleanliness, security, and the demeanor of the staff. Are pets well-supervised? Is there ample room for exercise and play? If you know these details, you’ll likely find it easier to relax while you’re away, as you’ve seen firsthand that your pet will be cared for in a safe and nurturing environment.

6) Review the Facility's Contract and Policies

Boarding isn’t as simple as dropping your pet off and picking them up later. Many facilities have detailed contracts and policies that outline everything from liability to cancellation fees. Before the stay, carefully read through the fine print. You’ll want to be clear on policies regarding emergency care, pick-up and drop-off times, and what happens in case you get delayed. 

7) Update Your Emergency Contacts

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when you’re leaving your pet in someone else’s care. Make sure the facility has up-to-date emergency contact information before you check your pet in. Ideally, this should be someone who can act on your behalf if you’re unreachable. 

Whether it’s for a health emergency or an unexpected change in plans, having a trusted contact who knows your dog and can make decisions guarantees that your canine will stay safe, no matter what happens.