5 Dog Boarding Tips to Prepare Your Dog

1. Update Dog Vaccines

Contact your vet and make sure that your dog is up to date on all of its required vaccinations. For canines, you should be current on the following vaccines:

• • Rabies
  • Bordetella
  • DHLPP

If you have any concerns about your dog’s health or recent behavior, it is not a bad idea to take them in for an exam prior to leaving. Your boarding facility should have a partnership with a local, qualified vet in case of emergency; however, you’ll be better prepared for any medical issues that may arise if your pet has had a thorough evaluation beforehand. If your vet prescribes any medications, be sure you bring these to the kennel.

2. Schedule a Trial Period

For extremely anxious dogs, the best way to prepare them for a longer stay is to have them experience a shorter one. If you are preparing for a week away, schedule an overnight visit first. This allows your dog to get used to the environment and the staff.

You and the boarding staff can also take note of any concerns that need to be addressed. For example, if you do not provide any touches of home the first time, you can include personal items the second time. This could be toys or other items with your scent on them.

3. Provide Dog Food

Although your kennel will provide food for your pet as part of the service, it is best to bring the food from home that your dog is already eating. Transitioning to a new food takes time for the animal’s digestion to properly adjust and doing so abruptly can cause your dog unnecessary discomfort. This is especially important if he is on any special diet or prescription formulas.

You can prepare individual portions in resealable bags. If your dog has any favorite treats, feel free to include those as well. Provide the boarding facility with any instructions about how much to feed.

4. Stay Calm

Leaving your pet in a kennel for the first time may make you feel guilty, but rest assured that you’re leaving your dog with trusted caregivers in a safe environment. If you’re visibly upset, your dog may pick up on your anxiety and internalize it. Therefore it is important to keep yourself as calm as possible.

Your dog’s kennel stay is not a punishment; treat the experience like something exciting and special. Just before dropping off your dog, give him a yummy treat or a new toy. As you leave, show them that everything is business as usual. You’ll be coming back, so there’s no reason to engage in a tearful farewell.

5. Book Dog Boarding Today

Whether your dog needs boarding for one day or one week, you can help him adjust with the right planning. For dog boarding in Phoenix, schedule your pet’s stay at the Canine Country Club today, and let us prepare their welcome!