Are you planning a vacation soon? Or perhaps you’re considering boarding your pet for another reason. Finding the right place to take your furry pal is extremely important. However, there are definitely some things you’ll want to consider or be aware of. A local Rialto, CA kennel goes over a few general faux paws, and offers some helpful tips in this article.
Let’s start out with some of the don’ts. Here are some of the common ones:
Don’t Wait Until The Last Minute To Book
Kennels can get pretty busy. We often get really booked at peak travel times, such as the holidays and summer vacations. While you may be able to find a slot on short notice, that isn’t guaranteed. Book your dog boarding spot as far in advance as possible!
Don’t Change Your Pet’s Diet Just Before Boarding
Boarding will ensure that your pet is safe, sound, and well cared for in your absence. However, it can be a bit overwhelming for pets. Fido would rather be home, after all. Any major changes, such as going into a new environment, can be pretty stressful for our furry friends. That can sometimes give pets an upset stomach. To avoid tummy troubles, food changes should be made slowly, over the course of several days. Try not to make any changes just before boarding your dog.
Don’t Forget To Read The Paperwork
Every kennel operates a little differently. This affects many different aspects of pet boarding and care. What to pack, how often your pet will be walked or played with, emergency protocols, requirements, perks: these things all vary a bit from place to place. In many cases, you may have the option of choosing. For instance, many kennels offer extra walks or playtime as an upsell. Make sure you know exactly what is and is not included.
Don’t: Forget To Ask Questions
Kennels all operate a bit differently. You definitely don’t want to assume that your new kennel will do things exactly the same way as the last one did. Things like drop-off and pick-up times and procedures, add-ons, business hours, and even what you should and shouldn’t pack can vary greatly from one place to another. Ask all the questions!
Don’t Forget To Provide Necessary Paperwork
Your pet’s kennel should require certain documents, such as proof of vaccinations. Make sure that you’ve turned in everything that’s required. Do this as far in advance as possible.
Don’t Forget To Check Your Contact Information
Kennels usually confirm information, but it’s never a bad idea to double-check who you have listed. This goes double if you’ve moved, changed veterinarians, or gotten a new phone number.
You’ll also need to make sure that your backup contacts are up to date.
Don’t Drag Out The Goodbye
We know, it’s hard to leave your furry pal behind … especially when Fido is giving you THAT look. However, long, drawn-out goodbyes will only make it harder for both of you. Your best bet? Go the rip-the-Band Aid-off-quickly route, and make goodbyes short and sweet. There will be plenty of time for cuddles later, when you pick Fido up from his Rialto, CA pet hotel.
The Do’s
Now that we have the Don’ts out of the way, we also have some Do’s to share!
Do: Vet The Dog Boarding Kennel Carefully
We put this one at the top for a reason: if you choose a great kennel, that alone can help prevent many mishaps and misunderstandings. Do your due diligence on this one. Read reviews, and ask the kennel to view the boarding area where your furry pal will be staying. You can also ask your friends, family, and veterinarian for recommendations.
Do: Pack For The Pet Hotel Carefully
We always recommend adding a few days’ extra food, supplements, and medicine, just in case you are delayed. You’ll want to find out what is and is not acceptable, as some places may have different rules and regulations regarding things like bedding and toys.
Do: Provide Information
Every pet is a bit different! As mentioned above, any decent kennel is going to require certain documents, such as proof of ownership and vaccinations. However, you may also need to provide some specific information about your pet. For instance, if Fido is allergic to chicken or is scared of other dogs, they would need to know.
Do: Find A Great Kennel And Stick With It
Ideally, your pet’s kennel should be their home away from home. The more frequently they visit the same place, the easier boarding will be for them. There’s a lot to be said for familiarity! That also applies to you. Once you get used to a certain kennel and how they work, you’ll find arranging your pet’s hotel stay becomes quite easy.
Do: Try A Trial Run
Before you leave your canine companion at their hotel for a week or more, take them in for a shorter trip, like an overnight stay. This will give both you and your pet an idea of what to expect. Plus, it will be easier on your pooch, as he will already be familiar with their home away from home.
Do Choose A Great Backup Contact
Kennels usually ask for backup contacts. This makes sense: most people board when they are out of town. It’s not uncommon for people to be unreachable when they travel. This may be because your cell is out of range, or just because you’re in a different time zone. If something were to happen while you’re gone, the kennel will need to ensure that they can reach someone.
Your backup contact should be someone you trust entirely to make decisions about your pet’s care. In an emergency, that may even include surgical procedures! Ideally, this should be someone who lives nearby and is familiar with your pet.
Be sure to have a conversation with your backup, so they know that your wishes are clear.
Do: Pack Some Comfort Toys
Our furry buddies can get extremely attached to their humans. After all, you’re the center of Fido’s world! If you can, bring a comfort item, such as a favorite toy, or perhaps a t-shirt you’ve worn that has your scent. This can help make that time away from home much easier on your four-legged buddy.
Do Consider Dog Boarding For Non-Travel Reasons
The majority of our clients schedule pet boarding when they are going on trips, but that isn’t the only time a kennel can be helpful. You may want to board your furry pal on moving day. Other occasions include major life events, such as weddings, funerals, and graduations, as you may find yourself with a packed house during these gatherings. Boarding may also be a good option if you are undergoing a medical procedure in the near future. Another time to consider boarding would be if you are undertaking home renovations.
Do: Adjust Your Pet’s Schedule In Advance
It’s always best to make changes slowly, Try to find out what your furry buddy’s daily agenda will be like at the kennel. If it will be very different from what he’s used to, make that adjustment in advance.
Do you want to schedule boarding for your pet? Are you interested in doggy daycare or petsitting services? Contact us, your local Rialto, CA pet hotel, anytime.
