If you’re like most pet parents, you consider your fur baby a member of the family. So, when it comes time to travel, it can be tough to leave them behind. However, with a little planning, you can make the pet boarding experience much less stressful.
In this article, we’ll go over some tips on how to prepare your fur child for pet boarding.
Benefits of Pet Boarding
If you’re considering boarding your pet, you should keep a few things in mind.
- First and foremost, boarding facilities provide a safe and secure environment for your pet while you’re away.
- They also offer your pet the chance to socialise with other animals, which can be beneficial for their development.
- Additionally, boarding facilities often offer a variety of activities and enrichment opportunities to keep your pet stimulated and engaged.
- And finally, boarding facilities can provide peace of mind for pet parents who are travelling or otherwise unable to care for their pets.
With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that pet boarding has become such a popular option for pet owners.
Things to Do Before Getting Started With Pet Boarding
If you’re like most pet owners, your furry friend is part of the family. So, when it comes time to travel, it can be tough to leave them behind. If you’re planning on boarding your pet for the first time, you can do a few things to make the experience as smooth as possible for you and your animal companion.
Research Different Kennel Boarding Facilities in Your Area
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you look for the perfect boarding facility:
- First and foremost, you’ll want to find a clean and well-maintained kennel. After all, you wouldn’t want to leave your pet in a dirty or unsafe environment.
- Second, you’ll want to find a kennel with experienced and caring staff. When you tour different facilities, observe how the staff interacts with the animals. Do they seem genuine in their affection? Are they patient and understanding? These are all important qualities in a good boarding kennel employee.
- Finally, price is always a consideration when choosing any service. However, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for when it comes to boarding kennels. Don’t choose the cheapest option without doing your research first; it could end up costing you more in the long run if your pet isn’t well cared for.
Make a List of Questions to Ask the Kennel Boarding Staff
There are so many things to think about and prepare for when it comes to boarding your pet. Luckily, making a list of questions to ask the kennel boarding staff can help put your mind at ease. Here are some examples of what you might want to ask:
- What are the kennel’s hours of operation?
- What is the check-in and check-out process?
- How often will my pet be let out to exercise?
- What type of food will my pet be given?
- Will my pet be allowed to have any toys or bedding from home?
- How will you handle any medical issues that may arise during my pet’s stay?
Asking these questions (and more) will help you feel confident that your pet will be well taken care of while you’re away. Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone or stop by the kennel to get all the necessary information before making a reservation.
Schedule a Tour of the Kennel Boarding Facility
One of the best ways to get a feel for a kennel boarding facility is to schedule a tour. It will allow you to see the facility for yourself and meet the staff caring for your pet.
During the tour, be sure to ask any questions that you may have about the kennel’s policies and procedures. That way, you can rest assured knowing that your pet will be in good hands while you’re away.
Ask Your Friends and Family for Recommendations of Kennel Boarding Facilities
Before entrusting your furry friend to a kennel, it’s important to do your research to find a reputable boarding facility. A great way to start is by asking your friends and family for recommendations. They may be able to provide insights based on their own experiences.
Once you’ve compiled a list of potential kennels, it’s time to visit them. Pay attention to how the staff treats the animals in their care. Is the kennel clean and free of odours? Also, be sure to ask about the kennel’s policies regarding exercise, diet, and medication.
Compare Pricing Between Different Kennel Boarding Facilities
There is a wide range of pricing among different facilities, so it’s important to compare and find one that fits your budget. Just because a kennel is expensive doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best option for your pet. Conversely, cheaper options may not offer the same level of care and attention that you want for your furry friend.
Make Sure Your Pet Has Updated Vaccinations
You’ll want to make sure your pet has updated vaccinations. Most kennels require proof of vaccination before they accept your pet, for a good reason. Pets can easily contract diseases from other animals, so it’s important to ensure they’re up-to-date on their shots.
In addition, some kennels may require specific vaccinations, so check with your chosen boarding facility in advance. Taking care of this essential step can help ensure a safe and healthy stay for your beloved pet.
Make Sure Your Pet’s ID Tags Are Update
Making sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date is important. This way, if they escape from the kennel, they’ll be more likely to find their way back home.
Consider Giving Your Pet Socialization Training
There are a few different ways to socialise your pet, including taking them to dog parks or doggy daycares, exposing them to different types of people and environments, and enrolling them in an obedience class. You might want to consider giving them some socialisation training first. It will help them to feel more comfortable around other animals and people and make the transition into the kennel environment a little easier.
If you put in the effort to socialise your pet before boarding them, you can help to ensure that they have a positive experience while they’re away from home.
Preparing Your Dog for Their First Pet Boarding Experience
If you’re getting ready to board your dog for the first time, you can do a few things to help them (and you!) have a positive experience.
By following these simple tips, you can help make sure your dog has an enjoyable (and safe) stay while you’re away.
Quick and Positive Departure
One of the hardest things to do when leaving your dog at a pet boarding facility is to say goodbye. But, if you want your dog’s experience to be positive, it’s important to ensure that their departure is quick and stress-free. Here are a few tips to help make the process go smoothly:
- First, have all of your paperwork ready in advance. It includes vaccination records, a list of any medications they’re taking, and your contact information. It will help the staff at the pet boarding facility get your dog settled in more quickly.
- Second, try to arrive during off-peak hours. This way, there won’t be a lot of other dogs around, and your dog will be able to adjust to their new surroundings more easily.
- Finally, say goodbye calmly and confidently. Avoid making a big fuss or getting emotional, as this can cause your dog to become anxious. Instead, tell them that you’ll see them soon and give them a quick hug or pat on the head. Then, say goodbye and walk away quickly.
Consider a Boarding Trial
Consider taking your dog on a trial run – most boarding kennels offer daycare services, so drop your pup off for a few hours and see how they do. It will allow you to see how the staff interacts with your dog and get an idea of the facilities. If everything goes well, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your dog is in good hands.
Adjust Your Dog’s Sleeping Habits
If your dog is used to sleeping in your bed or on the couch, it will be a big adjustment for them to sleep in a kennel. Start adjusting their sleeping habits a few weeks before their stay.
If they usually sleep in your bed, gradually move them to their bed in another room. Then, a week or two before boarding, start putting them in their kennel for nap time and at night. This way, they’ll be used to sleeping in their kennel by the time they have to stay in one overnight.
Keep Your Dog Comfortable with Familiar Items
Boarding your dog can be a stressful experience – for both you and your pup. Consider bringing along anything that will help your dog feel at home – their favourite toy or blanket. It will help them feel comfortable in an unfamiliar setting and make the transition smoother for everyone involved.
Drop Off Your Dog in the Morning
The best time to drop off your dog for their first boarding experience is in the morning. It gives your dog time to adjust to its new surroundings and get comfortable with the other dogs before night falls.
It also means that the staff will have more time to spend with each dog, getting to know their personality and needs. If you’re dropping off your dog for a weekend stay, it is best to drop them off on Friday morning. This way, they’ll have two full days to explore and make new friends before you pick them up on Sunday evening. And if you’re leaving town for an extended period, dropping your dog off a few days before your departure will give them plenty of time to settle in and get comfortable in their new home away from home.
About Matraville Veterinary Practice Pet Boarding Services
Our Pet Boarding Facilities
We offer general boarding and kennelling services involving feeding (food and water), exercising, socialisation and supervision.
Our Dog Kennels
We provide generous-sized runs that can house dogs individually or be shared between dogs from the same family. We have an outdoor exercise area, and our staff ensure that our dog boarders spend as much time as possible out of their kennels.
We also offer small dogs and cat boarding services and grooming services. You can find all the details on our website here.
Our Guarantees
All animals are kept under close supervision. Therefore, your furry friend will remain safe in a secure environment where they won’t be injured or wander off and get lost.
Our staff love animals. We offer all of our boarding cats and dogs a caring and stress-free environment.
Our well-trained staff can offer medical attention if needed. We can cater for special needs. If your pet is on medication or follows a strict diet, we will ensure their regime is maintained. All our boarding animals are monitored closely with the charting of food and water intake and toileting recorded twice daily. Any concerns are immediately reported to the veterinarian on duty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Youngest Age to Board a Dog?
Most kennels will not board a puppy under the age of four months. It is because puppies have not yet had all of their vaccinations, and they are therefore more susceptible to illness. In addition, puppies are not yet fully potty-trained, which can create problems for kennel staff and other boarding dogs.
For these reasons, most kennels require that puppies be at least four months old before they can be boarded. However, some kennels will board puppies as young as two months old. These kennels usually require proof of vaccinations and a signed waiver from the owner indicating that they understand the risks involved in boarding a young puppy.
If your dog is too young for pet boarding, you might want to consider pet sitters. A pet sitter is someone who offers individualised pet care, often at your home.
How Do I Prepare My Anxious Dog for Boarding?
Many dog owners feel guilty about leaving their furry friends behind when they vacation. After all, dogs are loyal companions known to form strong emotional bonds with their human.
It’s only natural to worry about how your dog will handle being away from you for an extended period. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help ease your dog’s anxiety and make the transition to boarding a little bit easier.
- Take your dog for a tour of the boarding facility before you leave. It will help them familiarise themselves with the space and meet other staff members.
- Be sure to choose a boarding facility that offers professional care and attention. This way, you can rest assured that your dog will be in good hands while away.
Is Dog Boarding Stressful for Dogs?
Dogs are social creatures, and they may feel anxious when separated from their family. If the boarding facility is overcrowded or the staff is not attentive, your dog may become even more stressed. Look for a facility that offers ample space for dogs to play and socialise, and make sure to visit the facility before you leave your dog there. This way, you can get a feel for the environment and ensure it’s a good fit for your dog.
Do Dogs Get Sad in Kennels?
When you drop your dog off at the kennel, do you ever wonder if they’re sad? It’s a common question that dog owners have, and there are a few things to consider. First, dogs are highly social creatures, so it’s natural for them to miss their human companions when they’re away. In addition, kennels can be noisy and chaotic environments, which can be stressful for some dogs.
Not all dogs react the same way to being in a kennel. Some dogs seem to enjoy the company of other dogs and may even make new friends. Others may be more reserved and prefer to keep to themselves. Ultimately, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian or kennel staff about your dog’s specific needs and temperament to ensure that they have a happy and healthy stay.
When Can You Leave a Puppy to Go on Holiday?
It’s finally time for your long-awaited vacation. But what about your furry friend? If you’re wondering when you can leave a puppy to go on holiday, the answer depends on a few factors.
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- First, consider how old your pup is. It’s generally best to wait until they’re at least four months old before leaving them alone for extended periods. They’re still learning to socialise and may be prone to separation anxiety.
- Next, consider whether your puppy is comfortable around other people and animals. If they’re shy or easily scared, it may be best to arrange for a pet sitter or dog walker to come by while you’re away.
- Finally, consider your travel plans. If you’re going to be gone for more than a few days, it’s probably best to make arrangements for someone to check in on your puppy regularly.
With a little planning, you can ensure that both you and your pup have a stress-free vacation.
Can You Kennel a Puppy?
You’ve just brought home a new puppy, and you’re wondering if you can put them in a kennel. The answer is maybe. It depends on a few factors, such as your pup’s age, health, and temperament.
If you have a young puppy, they may not be ready to be kenneled yet. Puppies under 16 weeks old shouldn’t be left alone for more than a couple of hours at a time. They need plenty of socialisation and human interaction to help them develop into well-adjusted dogs.
If your puppy is older than 16 weeks, they may be able to handle being kenneled for longer, but it’s still important to give them plenty of time out of the kennel to socialise and exercise.
Some puppies don’t do well in kennels. If your pup becomes anxious or stressed when confined, finding another way to provide them with the care they need while you’re away from home is best.
Many dog daycares and dog walkers can give your pup the attention they need while you’re gone.
What’s Better for Pet Owners – Pet Sitters or Pet Boarding?
When it comes to finding care for your pet while you’re away, there are two main options: pet sitters and pet boarding. Both have pros and cons, so it’s important to consider your specific needs before deciding.
If you have a dog who doesn’t do well in new environments, or a cat who requires medication, a pet sitter may be the better option. This way, your pet can stay in the comfort of its own home and won’t have to adjust to new surroundings. Plus, you can request specific instructions for the sitter, such as how often to walk the dog or what times to feed the cat.
On the other hand, pet boarding offers the benefit of 24/7 supervision. If you’re going on a long trip or want peace of mind knowing that your pet is being constantly monitored, boarding may be the way to go. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your pet’s needs and your preferences.