Dog Boarding: Safe, Comfortable Care While You’re Traveling

When it’s time to hit the road and your furry friend can’t come along, finding the right care is key. Dog boarding offers a safe, comfortable solution, ensuring your pup gets the attention, playtime, and care they need while you’re away. From cozy sleeping areas to outdoor spaces for running around, professional dog boarding facilities cater to your pet’s needs, giving you peace of mind. 

With staff on hand to offer personalized care and plenty of cuddles, your dog will feel right at home. Whether it’s for a weekend trip or an extended vacation, dog boarding ensures your canine companion is in good hands.

How can I ensure my dog is safe and comfortable while being boarded?

Ensuring your dog is safe and comfortable while boarding is essential to their well-being. Here are some steps you can take:

• Research the Facility: Before choosing a boarding facility, visit in person to check cleanliness, safety measures, and the overall environment. Ensure the staff is experienced in handling dogs and is attentive to their needs.
• Ask for Recommendations: Ask your veterinarian, friends, or fellow dog owners for recommendations on reputable boarding facilities.
• Check for Certifications: Look for certifications such as the Pet Care Services Association (PCSA) or American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA), which indicate adherence to high standards.
• Bring Familiar Items: Bring your dog’s favorite toys, bedding, and maybe an item of clothing with your scent. This helps reduce stress by providing familiarity.
• Communicate Special Needs: Inform the staff of your dog’s routine, dietary restrictions, medication, and behavioral quirks.
• Tour Sleeping and Play Areas: Ensure the boarding facility has safe, comfortable sleeping arrangements and designated areas for exercise and play. Check if dogs are grouped according to temperament and size during playtime.
• Vet Check and Vaccinations: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations, as most facilities require this for health safety. Provide a copy of your dog’s medical history.
• Test Run: To help your dog acclimate, do a short stay or daycare session before a longer boarding period.
• Monitor Behavior Upon Return: When you pick up your dog, monitor its behavior for signs of stress, such as changes in appetite or energy level. Contact the facility if you have concerns.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your dog’s safety, happiness, and comfort during its stay.

What should I pack for my dog when using a boarding facility?

When boarding your dog at a facility, it’s important to pack items that ensure their comfort and happiness while you’re away. Start with your dog’s food. Most boarding facilities prefer you bring their regular food, measured and portioned for each day, to maintain dietary consistency and avoid any stomach issues. Include any medications with clear instructions, if necessary.

Pack a familiar blanket or bedding from home to provide comfort and ease anxiety. A few favorite toys or chew items can also help keep your dog entertained and relaxed. Remember to avoid confusion and label everything with your dog’s name.

If your dog has special treats, consider bringing those, but check with the facility’s policies first. Also, the facility will be provided with up-to-date vaccination records, including rabies, distemper, and Bordetella, as most places will require proof.

Lastly, leave an emergency contact number and instructions for your dog’s specific behavioral quirks or routines. By packing thoughtfully, you’ll help ensure your dog has a smooth and stress-free stay at the boarding facility.

How do I find a reliable dog boarding facility while traveling?

Finding a reliable dog boarding facility while traveling requires research and preparation. Here are key steps to guide you:

• Research Online: Start by searching for dog boarding facilities in the area where you’ll be traveling. Review reviews and ratings on trusted platforms like Google and Yelp or specific pet care websites like Rover or PetBacker. Check their websites to ensure they offer the services your dog needs, like exercise, playtime, or personalized care.
• Ask for Recommendations: Contact local veterinarians or pet owners for boarding facility recommendations. Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.
• Visit the Facility: If possible, visit the boarding facility in person before making a reservation. Check for cleanliness, safety, and friendly, trained staff. Ensure the facility offers adequate space for your dog to play, rest, and interact.
• Check Credentials: Ensure the facility is licensed and has proper certifications. Ask about staff training, emergency protocols, and vaccination requirements.
• Inquire About Routine: Understand how your dog will spend the day, including exercise, feeding, and socialization. This will help you assess if the facility meets your dog’s needs.

Following these steps, you can find a reliable boarding facility where your dog will be safe and happy.

What services should a good dog boarding facility provide to keep my pet happy and healthy?

A good dog boarding facility should offer several essential services to ensure your pet is happy, healthy, and well-cared for during their stay. Key services to look for include:

• Safe and Clean Environment: The facility should prioritize cleanliness and safety with well-maintained, secure spaces for dogs to play, sleep, and move freely. Ensure that the play areas and kennels are hygienic and comfortable.
• Regular Exercise and Playtime: Dogs need physical activity to stay healthy and reduce stress. Look for a facility that provides regular walks, play sessions, and social interaction with other dogs (if your dog enjoys socializing) or staff members.
• Personalized Feeding: The facility should feed your dog according to their regular schedule and diet. If your dog has special dietary needs, ensure the staff is willing to accommodate them.
• Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements: Your dog should have a cozy, private space to sleep, with options to bring their bedding or toys for added comfort.
• Trained Staff and Supervision: A professional, caring staff is essential for monitoring your dog’s health and behavior. Ensure the facility has trained employees who can manage medical emergencies and issues.
• Medication Administration: If your dog requires medication, the boarding facility should offer this service with clear protocols to ensure proper administration.
• Emergency Care: A reliable boarding facility should have access to a veterinarian or emergency pet care services in case of health concerns.

Together, these services provide a well-rounded environment where your dog can stay happy, healthy, and stress-free while you’re away. 

Trustworthy Dog Boarding for Peaceful Travels

At Animal People Dog Boarding & Day Care, we provide trustworthy care that ensures your pet is safe, comfortable, and happy while you travel. Our clean, secure facility offers personalized attention, regular exercise, and plenty of playtime to keep your dog engaged and stress-free. 

With cozy sleeping arrangements, a caring staff, and the ability to administer medications, we ensure your pet’s well-being is our top priority. Whether it’s a short trip or an extended stay, you can have peace of mind knowing your dog is in loving hands. Book with us today for reliable dog boarding services!