Dogs are integral to our lives, offering companionship, loyalty, and unconditional love. However, there are times when bringing your furry friend along isn’t an option. Whether it’s a honeymoon, a business trip, a hospital stay, or even a family vacation where pets aren’t allowed, you may find yourself in a situation where you need to separate from your canine companion. Additionally, there are scenarios at home, such as parties, fireworks, or renovations, where it might be less stressful for your dog to be away from the house.

Planning for Your Dog’s Care

Planning ahead is one of the most important aspects of being a responsible pet owner. Finding a trustworthy boarding facility for your dog is something you should consider well before the need arises. The worst time to start searching for a suitable place is at the last minute, as it may leave you with fewer options or force you into choosing a facility that may not meet your dog’s specific needs.

Early in your journey as a pet parent, it’s visiting several dog daycare centers or boarding kennels in your area is wise. This allows you to make an informed decision based on observations rather than relying on word of mouth or online reviews alone. By visiting these facilities in advance, you can ensure you’re comfortable with the environment, the staff, and the overall quality of care.

Trusting Your Instincts During Facility Visits

When visiting potential boarding facilities, trust your instincts. A good boarding facility should have a clean and well-maintained environment. Pay attention to the smell—while some dog odor is inevitable, the best facilities will have proper ventilation systems to minimize unpleasant odors. Cleanliness is vital, so ensure the entire facility is orderly, not just the areas they show you during the tour.

Ensuring Climate Control and Vaccination Protocols

Another essential factor to consider is climate control. Dogs are sensitive to extreme temperatures, just like humans, so the boarding facility must have adequate temperature controls to keep your dog comfortable, regardless of the weather outside. Additionally, reputable facilities will require proof of your dog’s vaccinations. This ensures that all dogs in their care are protected from common diseases, providing a safer environment for your pet.

Understanding Your Dog’s Sleeping Arrangements

During your visit, check where and how your dog will be sleeping. Dogs are naturally den animals, which means they feel safest in a secure, enclosed space. Open sleep arrangements may not allow your dog to rest fully, leading to irritability or injury due to fatigue. Ensuring your dog has a private, comfortable space to sleep is crucial for their well-being during their stay.

Familiarizing Your Dog with the Facility

The more familiar your dog is with the boarding facility, the less stressful the experience. Bring your dog to the facility for a few daycare sessions before their boarding stay. This helps them get accustomed to the environment and staff and reassures them that you will always return to pick them up.

Additionally, these pre-stay visits allow the staff to become familiar with your dog’s normal behavior, making it easier to spot any signs of stress
or discomfort during their stay. When it’s time for the boarding, bring familiar items like their regular bed, a shirt that smells like you, and their usual food. Maintaining consistency in their diet is particularly important, even if the facility provides food at no extra charge.

Saying Goodbye: Keep It Short and Sweet

It’s natural to feel sad when leaving your dog behind, but keeping your emotions in check is essential. Dogs are highly attuned to their owners’ feelings, and if you’re anxious or upset during drop-off, your dog is likely to pick up on that and become stressed. Instead, make your goodbye quick and cheerful, like how you would leave them at daycare on a typical day.

Following these steps can help ensure that your dog’s boarding experience is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. When you return, you may find that your dog had as much fun on their “vacation” as you did on yours!