How to take your pets with you on a boarding trip

[jack wang]

Spring and summer are almost upon us, and the open road is calling us to cottage country and beyond. While our pets can often travel with us, there are many occasions where they need to be left behind. Here are some key tips to make sure their kennel stay is safe and enjoyable for them, and worry free for you.

 

1. Get a referral or a recommendation for a boarding facility from trusted friends, your veterinarian, your groomer, animal care education specialists or other animal care workers.
2. View the kennel facility before you board by making an appointment. Find out the best time to visit, as you want the staff to have time to answer all of your questions.
3. Ensure that all vaccinations are up to date. They should be done at least two weeks prior to boarding, and ideally more than 30 days. You will be asked to provide valid, original vaccination certificates at the time of check in, including Rabies DHPP and Bordetella. Pets not fully vaccinated at the time of boarding ? Ask if the facility has an isolation area.
4. Ensure you or an emergency contact person will be available/notified in case of emergency.
5. Bring a familiar object from home that has your scent on it, like a blanket, bed, toy or T-shirt. It is best to label any belongings, and make sure they are washable. Avoid articles that may be a choking hazard.
6. Advise staff of any behaviour issues your pet may have, as well as details about food allergies ( as cookies are often given) or medical problems. Write any special instructions down to ensure that no detail is forgotten.
7. If your dog is on medication, be sure to bring a sufficient supply plus a couple of extra doses for the stay, just in case you can not make it back on your pickup day.
8. It is highly recommended that your pet stays on the same diet, so pack enough of your pet’s own food for the stay plus extra should their stay be extended. You may want to premeasure your food and provide a sealed container of kibble for their stay. If wet food is required, bring the required number of canned foods. You may also bring your own treats.
9. Allow adequate time to fill out necessary paperwork at drop-ff. If you are going to be in a rush, drop by a day early or request your paperwork via email in advance, so that the boarding facility will have all the necessary details.
10. Say a quick goodbye sot that your pet is not overly concerned. Long sad goodbyes often create more stress for your pet. Remember—it is probably harder for you than it is for your pet.
11. If you travel frequently and just acquired a new puppy, take him to your boarding facility for a couple of days before you go on any trips. Early exposure to the boarding facility/pet spa life will reduce separation issues. The more comfortable your dog is at the facility, the happier they will be.
12. For stays during holidays or summer, make appointments well in advance. Ask about charges for cancellations.
13. Let kennel staff know all about your pet—his quirks, temperament, feeding schedule at home, games they like to play, tricks they know, etc.
14. Do not feed your dog extra large meals or treats just before boarding. Although it may seem like a nice idea to spoil your pet before you say goodbye, you can reduce stress by keeping to your regular everyday schedule. This also is important when you bring your dog home, as he will be very excited to see you.

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