Know what to do before and after you take your dog in for pet boarding.

Pet boarding can often be bittersweet for pet owners. After all, as much as you might be looking forward to that trip to an amusement park or that networking conference, traveling means you’ll be parted from your wonderful dog. However, if it’s bittersweet for you, imagine what it’s like for your dog. You, at least, understand where you’re going, why you’re leaving, and when you’ll be back. Your dog doesn’t know any of this. They just see their routine changing drastically.

Luckily, your friends here at Small Animal Medical Center are here to make your pet boarding experience as easy as possible - for you and your dog! We’ve assembled this list of five tips that can help you enjoy a successful pet boarding experience before and after your dog goes to the kennel. Check them out!

1. Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date

While this won’t necessarily do much for your dog’s state of mind, making sure they have the proper vaccinations is vital for their health and your peace of mind. Most kennels and vets that offer boarding service will only accept dogs who are fully vaccinated to begin with. For best results, take care of any pet vaccinations at least two weeks before your dog goes in for boarding. (We can help with that!)

2. Try to keep things as normal as possible before you leave

The less reason your dog has to suspect that something out of the ordinary is about to happen, the happier he or she will be. On the day of your trip, try to pack things up quietly and calmly - if you’re feeling anxious, your dog will pick up on it and be anxious too. You should also keep them to their normal feeding schedule and resist the temptation to give them extra treats.

3. Bring toys and blankets to the pet boarding facility

Dogs love familiarity and routine, so make their home-away-from-home at the kennel as familiar as possible. A favorite chew toy, blanket, or pet bed will do a lot to help this strange new environment feel like home! You should also supply the pet boarding facility with your pet’s favorite food and other necessities, especially if your dog is on a prescription diet.

4. Say goodbye quickly!

When you drop your dog off at the boarding facility, your goal should be to keep your pet as calm and happy as possible. If you’re upset, your dog will be too. So keep calm, make your goodbyes quick, and then head right back to the car. If you need to cry or feel sad leaving your dog at the kennel - and we understand if you do - your dog will be much happier if you do that where he or she can’t see or hear you.

5. Don’t be alarmed if your dog acts strangely right after coming home

Taking your dog to a kennel is a big change in their daily routine, and your dog might take a few days to regain his or her equilibrium once you get home. Eating and drinking more, sleeping more, and even some digestive issues are all perfectly normal. Give your dog lots of love, and he or she will likely be just fine in a few days. If unusual behavior lasts longer than that, call your vet.

Reach out to us today

We hope these tips help you on your next pet boarding journey! And remember, if you’re from Brownwood, Comanche, Brady, San Saba, Coleman, Goldthwaite, TX; or the surrounding areas, we would be happy to take care of your precious pup when you’re out of town. Call today to schedule your dog’s next stay with us!