10 Tips on Preparing Your Dog for A Boarding Kennel

As a pet owner, leaving your furry friend behind can be a tough decision. It is understandable to feel apprehensive about the idea of leaving your dog at a boarding kennel or pet resort. However, pet boarding is a common and sometimes necessary practice for responsible pet ownership, and can be a great socialising experience for dogs. 

Here are some tips to help you prepare both yourself and your dog for their stay at a boarding kennel:

1. Visit the kennel first with your dog

Visiting the dog kennel with your dog beforehand is important to get them used to the environment and staff. This helps to reduce the stress and anxiety they may feel when it comes time for their stay. It also provides a chance to ensure the quality of the kennel is up to your standards and will provide you with peace of mind.

2. Health Check-up

A health check-up before boarding is crucial to ensure that your dog is in good health and can safely board the kennel. This includes getting updated on all their vaccinations and ensuring they are free of any illnesses or parasites. Any good kennel should require up-to-date vaccinations for all its visitors. 

3. Find out about the food

Ask the kennel about their food options and make sure they have a brand that your dog is used to or are happy to feed your dog the food you have provided. Avoid making any dietary changes close to the time of boarding as this can cause digestive upset and increase stress for your dog.

Also read: How To Prepare Your Cat For Boarding

4. Find out about daily exercise

Exercise is important for dogs and it is essential to ask the kennel about their exercise routine. Find out about the amount of time and type of exercise they provide so you can ensure that your dog’s needs are met. Some kennels let their dogs out for daily rumps, while at others it is an extra add-on. 

5. Prepare your emergency contact information

Make sure the kennel has your current contact information including emergency contact, in case they need to reach you while you are away.

 

6. Book an overnight stay

Booking an overnight stay for your dog before your actual trip can be helpful for them to get used to the kennel and make their stay less stressful. This trial run can also give you peace of mind and ensure that the kennel is a good fit for your dog.

7. Avoid contact with other dogs for 7-10 days before boarding

To minimise the risk of your dog catching any illnesses from other dogs, avoid contact with other dogs for 7-10 days before boarding.

8. Lower your dog’s anxiety with extra exercise

Providing extra exercise before their stay can help tire your dog out and reduce their anxiety. This can make the transition to the boarding kennel smoother.

9. Make your goodbye quick

Lingering goodbyes can increase stress and anxiety for your dog. It is best to make your goodbye quick and calm to minimize stress for your dog.

10. Put your dog through socialisation training before boarding

Socialisation training can help your dog adjust to new environments and new dogs. This can make the transition to the boarding kennel smoother and reduce stress for your dog.

Pet Stays With Alida's Pet Resort  

By following these tips, you can help prepare both yourself and your dog for their stay at a boarding kennel. By doing so, you can ensure that your dog has a comfortable and stress-free stay while you are away.

We have all the qualities in a pet boarding facility that you are looking for: Clean spaces, huge playing areas, quality meals, and the best accommodation facilities at an affordable price. Visit our FAQ page for any other queries.

Contact our experts at Alida’s Pet Resort at 07-5546-2275 to book a reservation for boarding your pet before going on a holiday.