What to Bring When You Board Your Dog So They’re Comfortable
Have you ever wondered what to bring when you board your buddy at a pet boarding facility? Or, did you just assume that your dogs would be happy with anything? When you have to leave your dog with a boarding kennel, it’s important they have everything they need. Even your tiniest pup is going to need some things just in case they get lonely.
If you’re planning to board your dog, it’s important to have a plan in place. Most of us that have pets have also been faced with the decision of leaving them at a boarding facility. This is a challenging and stressful time for both you and your pet. Preparing your dog nicely before you leave can make all the difference in his day. But what if you don’t know what to bring? Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered.
When you’re boarding your dog, it’s important to bring a few things to make them feel at home. You may not need all of these items, but it’s best to be prepared. Your dog is going to be spending a lot of time at the kennel, so it’s important that they’re comfortable and happy. They’ll be on their own, so it’s up to you to make sure they’re prepared for their stay.
Records
Your dog’s medical records, vaccination, and identification (collar with ID tags).
If your dog is already spayed or neutered, be sure to bring proof of that surgery as well. If your dog has any medical conditions, bring their medical records with you when you board them so that they can be treated if necessary. Also, make sure that you bring any medications that they take on a regular basis in case they need them while at the kennel or vet. Make sure that your dog has up-to-date vaccinations before leaving them in the care of any boarding facility. Additionally, make sure that all of these vaccines are listed on their identification tags so that if there were an emergency situation (such as an outbreak of an infectious disease), staff would know what procedures should be followed to keep everyone safe.
His or her favorite chew toys or comfort toys
If your dog is a puppy, make sure that you bring along some of his or her favorite toys and treats so that he or she feels as comfortable as possible while in the care of the dog boarding facility. Your dog might need a little something to play with when he’s away from home. If he has an old toy that smells like home, bring it along with him. If he doesn’t have one, get him one before you drop him off at his kennel. This will help him feel more at ease during his stay away from home. Many dogs like to have their favorite toys around when they sleep, so it might be a good idea to bring some along with you. Just make sure the toys are not too small or too large and won’t cause any problems if they get swallowed accidentally!
Food (and bowls)
If your dog has special dietary needs — like a prescription diet or food allergies — bring along their food (and eating bowls). A list of all foods your dog eats regularly with brand names, sizes and even flavorings if possible (some kibble brands have different flavors within the same bag). It’s also good to bring the bowl that your dog eats out of because this will help him or her feel more at home when being boarded.
Any medications he or she needs
A list of all medications, including dosage information and frequency of administration. Your vet will help create this list for you if you’re unsure of what medications your dog takes. If your dog has a health condition that requires medication, bring the prescription and any refills with you. Any medications he or she needs should be clearly labeled and stored in a backpack or travel case that you bring with you.
Small blanket or towel from home
Some dogs may need their own bedding or shirt in order to feel comfortable and relaxed in a new environment. If your pup is stressed out about being away from home, give them a familiar toy to help them relax. You can also bring their favorite blanket or stuffed animal. This can help them feel more comfortable and secure, especially if they are new to boarding. It may seem like an odd thing to bring, but dogs get used to certain smells and textures while they’re at home with their owners. If they don’t have a blanket or towel with them at the boarding facility, they may not feel as comfortable.
When you take your dog to a boarding facility, it’s important that they are comfortable. If your dog is used to sleeping in his crate, bring it with him. Or if he likes to have a toy or blanket from home with him, bring that too. Visit the facility before you leave your pet there and ask questions. Make sure it’s clean and well-maintained. You should also ask about the staff’s training and experience and whether they have any references for you to check out.
If you use a boarding facility, make sure to put a few extra things in your dog’s travel bag. It’s always better for them to have these items when they first enter the facility, and it’s much easier for you to pack their items beforehand. By packing everything the night before, you can ensure your dog will be comfortable from the moment he enters the facility.
Puppy boarding can be a lot of fun. Remembering to bring what you need and want will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone, as well as ensure your pet is comfortable while in their temporary home. No matter what, your puppy will feel more at home when you provide for the things that make them feel content in their environment.