Packing and Preparing Your Dog for Boarding

Despite the current pandemic situation, many dog owners have no choice but to leave their dogs at boarding facilities for work. The American Pet Products Association bolsters this confidence by helping boarding facilities maintain safe and healthy environments for dogs. Although you can rest easy knowing your dog will be in good hands, you should still do your best to get ready. Here’s what you need to know about packing and preparing for your dog’s stay at the boarding facility.

 

Update Immunizations

You should go to the vet and have your dog’s vaccines updated. This is a strict requirement in all pet boarding facilities. Immunizations for rabies, distemper, kennel cough, parvovirus, and adenovirus should be recorded.

 

Purchase Medications

If your dog is currently taking some prescription medications and supplements, make sure you have a steady supply that will last until a week after you arrive. Pack the medications in a small toiletry bag and tape the dosage instructions outside of it. Place this bag in one of the outer pockets of your dog’s bag.

 

Pack Familiar Foods and Objects

Animal behaviorists say that stress is a major cause of depression and sickness in dogs during and after they stay at boarding facilities. They often lose their appetite and become lethargic. To prevent this from happening, make sure you pack your dog’s daily snacks, dog food, blankets, and toys. These will bring the familiar scents of home and make your dog feel safe in a strange environment.
 

To ensure that boarding facilities are free from pathogens or parasites, they usually remove collars and sanitize everything that you packed for your dog. But even if they do this, your dog will still find comfort and security in those items.

 

Place Your Used Sock or Shirt

You are everything to your dog. Although the blankets and toys help construct a comfort zone for your pet at the boarding facility, your scent will complete the picture of the home. Get a Ziploc bag and punch three to four holes in it. Place one of your used socks or shirts in the Ziploc bag, and put it in your dog’s bag. Your smell will help your dog calm down and sleep well.

 

Include the Necessary Documents

The boarding facility will need certain documentation such as vaccine records, updated microchip data, and registration forms. You should compile them in a folder and secure them in a file envelope. Place the folder on the outer pocket of your dog’s bag for easy access.

 

Pack an Extra Leash

Most dog boarding facilities require dogs to be leashed at all times. If you know your dog may bite when stressed, it is best to pack a muzzle or two and tell the guardians as well.


 

Leaving your dog at a daycare or boarding facility can lead to worry. Preparing well can minimize your anxiety and your dog’s stress. At Liberty Pet Resort & Wellness Center, we encourage dog parents to call ahead and see our facilities first before they leave their dogs with us. Please visit our center in Cumming, Georgia, for a walk-in consultation. You can also call us at 770-886-9936 if you want to schedule an appointment or make inquiries about our dog boarding packages.