Boarding your pet doesn't have to be stressful!
Pet boarding can be a stressful topic for many pet parents. But have no fear, I've gathered a few tips that will help make the process easier and also help prevent complications during your pet's stay with us.
Keep these helpful tips in mind when planning your pet's stay and you'll both have a wonderful experience!
Tip #1 - Updated Paperwork/Vaccinations
This first tip is one that is often overlooked, but is the most important. Travel plans are often hectic and the last thing on your mind is a trip to the veterinarian. However this is the easiest way to keep your pet healthy and keep away preventable illnesses. The safety of all of the pets in our care depends on teamwork from all of our pet parents, as well as their caretakers.
It's also equally important to make sure all phone numbers and emails are updated. In case of emergencies, from natural disasters to medical emergencies, our team has to be able to contact you asap. Updated information on your pet also makes for a more comfortable stay.
Tip #2 - Food Preparations
Some pet parents hate to admit that their dog gets that leftover bite of pizza crust or kitty gets a little nibble of lunchmeat from time to time. However, being completely honest about your pet's diet helps them adjust during a confusing time. It's very important that your pet continues to have their normal diet (whatever it may be). Many pets don't have a large appetite on their first day of boarding and a bowl of unfamiliar food only makes them feel worse.
Please pack enough of their normal food for your pet's entire stay. You can also include treats too! We want your pet to relax and enjoy their time with us. If you have any specific feeding instructions or food allergies, be sure to write them down for our team.
Tip #3 - Updated ID Tags and Microchip
Always make sure ID tags and microchip information are up to date. If you are looking for a free microchip registration, please send us an email and we can guide you through the process. While our team tries to prepare for a wide variety of incidents, the unthinkable could always happen. Updated ID can make a world of difference in an emergency.
Tip #4 - Familiar Items
One of the biggest ways to help your pet adjust to their boarding experience is to bring along something familiar! We always encourage pet parents to pack things that will make their pet feel more at home during their stay. This can include their bed, blanket, toys, etc. Pets are highly sensitive to smells and having something that smells like home will help them relax and feel less anxious about their stay.
Tip #5 - Positive (and Quick) Departure
Leaving your pet is difficult, even if it's for a short time. If it's your pet's first time, they will likely be very confused about what is happening. Pet parents are worried, there are new smells, different pets than they are used to. This can cause a lot of anxious feelings for pets.
It's important for pet parents to remain calm when dropping off the day of boarding. Try to make the whole process smooth, quick, and positive. Questions can always be discussed before or after drop off. This way pets are less upset and nervous during the transition. It's common for pets to be a little scared. Think of it as kids on their first day! Once they realize they are safe, the fun can begin!
Prepare for Success!
Just these five valuable tips can greatly increase your pet's experience during boarding for a long stay or even a weekend. Setting them up for success the first time means future boardings will be like a walk in a dog park!
Have additional questions or concerns? Send us a message!
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