Boarding your canine companion can be a bit stressful, both for you and your pet. Part of this is built-in. Most people board their pets when they are traveling, which is stressful in and of itself. Even if you’re headed to your dream destination, you’re still going to have a lot to do before you leave. Since your pet can’t run out to a drugstore to get anything he needs, it’s important to make sure that you have everything ready and waiting for him. In this article from Valley Pet Hotel, your Rialto, CA pet kennel, also serving Bloomington, CA, we provide a checklist of things to pack or prepare for Fido.
Make Sure Your Dog Has Identification
Making sure that your pup is wearing proper ID is important all the time, whether you are boarding or not. While kennels are literally built to keep dogs safe, there is always a chance of an emergency, such as a flood or fire. Your dog should have a collar with his ID tags. These should have your contact information, as well as the contact for a local backup. We also suggest adding the word ‘Reward’ as it can help motivate people to return your pooch.
Microchipping is also important. This is typically a one-time procedure. The chip itself won’t need any maintenance or upgrades. However, you do want to check and make sure that the information is correct. This needs to be updated any time that you move or change your contact information. If you aren’t sure how to check or edit your information, try the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup tool here.
Emergency Contact Information
Before leaving town, you’ll want to choose a reliable backup contact, someone that can be reached if you are unavailable. This should ideally be a close friend or family member, someone that you completely trust. Keep in mind that this person may be responsible for making major decisions on your behalf, up to and including authorizing veterinary care. They also should know you and your pet well enough to field questions, if something should come up.
Have a conversation with this person before you leave. It’s important for them to understand the responsibilities. Most of the time, boarding stays go quite smoothly. It’s quite likely that your backup won’t get a phone call. You just want to be prepared in case they do.
Speaking of phone calls, you may want to ask your contact to add the Rialto, CA pet boarding kennel number to their phone. That way, if someone calls, they won’t mistake it for a scam dial.
You’ll also want to provide the contact information for your vet. They may also be able to serve as a good reference or point of contact. If you have a favorite emergency clinic, list that with the information as well.
A Familiar Blanket or T-Shirt
Dogs are very emotional, and get very attached to their humans. It’s good for Fido to be familiar with his kennel, as then the experience won’t be as upsetting or unfamiliar to him. That said, your pup will still miss you while you’re gone. Bring a comfort item, such as a tee shirt you’ve slept in. That will hold the scents of you and your home. Your scent will soothe your pup, and make him feel less alone.
If your dog has a favorite toy or blanket, pack that as well.
Favorite Snacks and Toys
If there’s one thing that all of our canine guests appreciate, it’s snacks. It’s safe to say that your pet will enjoy having his favorite treats while he is at our hotel. Chews can be a good option, as they last quite a while, which also helps keep your dog occupied.
A few favorite toys will also help your pet feel comfortable and content during his stay at our pet hotel.
Stability is always good for pets. If possible, ask the kennel if they can keep him on his same routine. If not, find out what schedule Fido will be following during his stay. Try to get him adjusted before your trip.
Extra Food
While kennels may have food on hand, it’s generally best to avoid changing Fido’s diet quickly. This can lead to tummy upsets. Given that being at a pet hotel can be stressful for dogs, this is a tricky time. Try not to change Fido’s menu just before boarding him.
It’s best to pack a bit of extra food, just in case you’re delayed or if there is a mishap, such as a spill. It’s not a bad idea to put kibble in a ziplock bag, with your pet’s name and the date on it.
Key Documents
Any decent kennel is going to require proof of certain documentation. You’ll need to provide paperwork showing that Fido is up to date on his key vaccinations. Kennels typically will require Bordetella.
You may also need to set up an online account portal.
If you have questions about the specific documents our pet hotel needs, feel free to give us a call.
Medicines And Supplements
Just like people, dogs sometimes have to take medications or supplements. If your pooch has or is at risk of developing arthritis or hip dysplasia, he may be taking salmon oil or glucosamine. A pup with poor eyesight may be taking a vitamin supplement, while one with skin trouble may be on a steroid or another medication.
Make sure that supplements and vitamins are clearly labeled. You can get a vitamin storage pill box to make this a bit easier. Include written instructions for dosage and timing.
Final Checklist:
Without further ado, here is our final list:
- Leash And Collar: Fido should have a leash and collar on when you drop him off. It’s not a bad idea to include an extra leash. Put your pup’s name on his belongings, so they don’t get mixed up with his neighbor’s.
- Written Instructions: Make sure to provide any specific information about your dog’s care needs.
- Dinner Schedules: How much your pet eats, and at what time of day you feed him.
- Treats: How many treats can Fido have each day, and when they are given.
- Medication Instructions: Provide specific information on any meds your pup takes.
- Exercise/Play Restrictions: Some dogs shouldn’t be encouraged to run or play. Others need quite a bit of walking and play time each day. Keep in mind that the kennel may allot for a specific amount in their package.
- Extras or Upgrades: Many kennels offer perks that can be added a la carte, such as extra playtime. Note anything that you want to include for your canine pal.
- Food
- Treats
- Toys
- Comfort Item
- Leash/Collar
- Documentation
- Contact information
- Medications
- Supplements
Ask your kennel for more information about packing for your canine pal.
Make An Appointment At Our Rialto, CA Pet Boarding Kennel
Do you need to book time for your canine companion? Are you looking for a great doggy day care or kennel in the area? Contact us here at Valley Pet Hotel, your Rialto, CA pet kennel, also serving Bloomington, CA.
