If you’re going on a long vacation and don’t have a family member or friend who can take your dog while you’re away, you’re probably facing a boarding situation. And boarding your best pup friend can create some anxiety for your dog and for you. We’re here with tips for boarding your dog.
Sometimes it’s enough to have a dog sitter. If you’re just going away for a couple of days, having someone come over a few times a day isn’t all that bad. If you’ve never hired a pet sitter, here are our tips for picking a great dog sitter.
But again, if you’re going on a big trip, dog sitting just isn’t practical. Even if you can have someone at the house three times a day, your dog is going to be seriously lonely and bored. And we know a bored dog is a dog more likely to create trouble.
What to look for in boarding facilities
Staff to dog ratio
Ask the boarding facility about this number. Out of all the tips for boarding your dog, this one is extra important. And ask about the staff to dog ratio specifically over the weekend. Some states have regulations regarding boarding so look into your state here. Make sure the boarding facility is following those regulations and then some. If you’re in Pennsylvania, you can start reading here.
Safety
Are there tall fences? Are there double gates? What precautions are taken to ensure that your dog does not get out? (Your dog will be a bit stressed and might be looking for opportunities for flight even if they never behave that way at home.)
And make sure to ask about overnight? Is there a staff member? If not, when is the last bathroom break at night and first in the morning? Are there security cameras?
If your dog is not microchipped, boarding them would be a good reason to get that done.
Cleanliness
When you visit, you’ll probably get a pretty good idea of the upkeep of the place. But don’t hesitate to ask about their sanitation schedules. When do the individual kennels get cleaned out and how often and when are play areas sanitized?
If you walk in and it stinks, you should probably go somewhere else.
Overall environment
What is the temperature indoors? What about overnight? Do they have rules about outdoor temperatures? For example, do they have a “too hot” limit where they do not allow the dogs out?
Is there constant barking when you’re visiting? Your dog would probably not appreciate that.
Emergencies
Is there a vet on site? If not, what are their procedures for dealing with a sick dog? What if the dog needs emergency treatment?
Other cool stuff
Some boarding facilities are now really upping their amenities for your dog. There are some, for example, that have TVs in each kennel. Maybe your dog is used to having YouTube videos playing when you’re at work so this will be something you’ll want to look for.
Are their little pools for the warm weather? Do they play organized games with the dogs to keep them active? Some places even have story time for the dogs!
And finally, at some facilities, you can have your dog groomed right before you pick them up. Like they’ve been staying at a luxury spa! ((ha))
How to prepare your dog for their stay
- Most facilities have you bring your dog’s food so that they have continuity. And also pack their favorite snacks.
- If you have medications, make sure they’re well labeled and that the staff knows how to administer them.
- Check on your dog’s vaccinations and make sure the facility only allows dogs who are up to date on theirs.
- Write out all of your emergency contact information and your vet information.
- Pack them a blanket that smells like home.
- Pack a selection of their favorite toys.
Overall, if this is your first time boarding your dog, remember that it’s probably a lot harder on you than it is on them. They’ll adjust and then they’ll be so excited to see you when you return!