By Andy Gartzke
Are you hitting the road for a much-needed weekend getaway? Hopefully not before booking your dog a reservation at a trusted overnight boarding facility! After you’ve packed your bags, it’s time to pack your dog’s bag, too. Here’s what to pack for boarding your pup.
Don’t forget to download our free Dog Boarding Checklist to help.
Table of Contents
1. Familiar Bed and Blankets Are a Must For Boarding
Your pup is going to need a place to curl up after a long day of playing. They will have a private space to sleep at the facility, and the familiar scent and feel of their bed will make them feel right at home. Pack up their bed, blankets, pillows, or any other bedding that they typically sleep with.
As an exception, some dogs may feel anxious in an unfamiliar environment and chew or destroy items in response. If that is the case with your dog, it might be best to leave their bed at home so they don’t shred it to pieces.
2. Bring More Than Enough Food (and Feeding Instructions)
Food is an essential item! Be sure to pack enough food to last for the duration of your dog’s stay, and probably a bit more than you think you need. You wouldn’t want them to run out! While all boarding facilities will keep some food on hand, having to resort to that could cause an upset stomach for your pup. Don’t expect the staff to try and source your specific food.
It is also a good idea to write up a list of their feeding schedule and any special instructions. If your dog has a complicated feeding regimen, make sure to go over it with the staff in detail. Never leave it to chance, or a few quick words written down.
Most facilities handle a wide variety of food, whether it is dry kibble or raw food that needs to be refrigerated. However, staff members will not cook for your dog, so all food must be prepared beforehand.
3. Communicate Medication Needs Clearly
Don’t forget any medications and include any necessary dosage information. It is also not a bad idea to list any known allergies your dog has as well. Boarding facility staff members are trained to administer most medications, but let the staff know in advance about your dog’s medical needs just to be on the safe side.
If your dog takes pills orally, feel free to also pack any food items that help them take the medication. This can include pill pockets, peanut butter, or slices of cheese.
In most cases, if your dog requires shots, fluids, or anything else beyond pills, it is recommended that you board at your veterinarian as the stress of the boarding stay on top of their medical may be too taxing on your pup. If a facility takes your dog under these conditions, make sure to ask if they have anyone trained to administer shots/fluids before committing to the stay.
4. Check Ahead Whether You Can Pack Chew Toys
What dog wouldn’t want their favorite chew toy with them during their overnight stay? However, check with the facility ahead of time to make sure they allow outside toys. These types of toys will not be permitted in the play area with the other dogs, but some facilities may allow their dog guests to have a chew toy in their private room at night.
5. Vaccination Records Are a Requirement
An important rule to remember is that your dog will need to be up-to-date on their vaccinations before visiting any doggy daycare or boarding facility, and you’ll need to provide proof. This helps ensure the safety of not just your dog, but other dogs at the facility as well. These records are oftentimes emailed to the facility in advance and they will keep them on file. If you’re concerned about over-vaccination, the best boarding facilities allow for valid titer tests instead of fresh shots.
Before You Schedule Your Dog’s Boarding Stay
Just like a dog daycare, boarding places usually have a few requirements for you and your dog before they’ll board them.
If you’re planning to board at a location that has dog daycare and lets the dogs play together all day, you’ll need to schedule ahead to have a temperament test. This allows your dog to make the most of their time while you’re away. On the other hand, if you are using a traditional kennel where dogs are separated except for optional playgroups, this may not be a concern.
Either way, choosing the right facility, be it daycare or boarding, is a similar process.
Conclusion: Knowing What to Pack for Dog Boarding Brings Peace of Mind
Whether it’s your dog’s first time at a boarding facility, or they are a regular guest, remembering to always pack their essential items is important. We hope this list provided you with some guidance. If you ever have any other questions on what to bring, give your local boarding facility a call.
Now that you know what to pack for dog boarding, you can relax knowing that your furry friend is well prepared to enjoy their time away as well! If you think it would help, you can get our handy Dog Boarding Checklist for free.
