First Time Boarding Tips

Bring Your Dog to the Facility Before the First Stay

Letting your dog meet the staff and sniff out the surroundings helps to familiarize him or her with the facility, makes your dog less likely to be nervous on his first trip. It also gives an opportunity for you to see where your dog is staying and what conditions are like.

Pack Something That Smells Like You, For Your Dog

In addition to the usual items for a stay at the kennel, packing a familiar item of yours might help your dog feel more comfortable. An item of yours, such as a T-shirt or a pillowcase, brings in familiar smells and scents that can help relax your dog.

Pack Familiar Toys & Other Items

Providing familiar surroundings and smells, such as a dog bed or a favorite toy, is the perfect way to make your dog feel more comfortable when he or she is away from home. Doing this helps make your dog's stay more comfortable and keeps him or her from becoming too stressed when away from home.

Leave Some of Your Dogs Favorite Treats

Every dog likes to be pampered, and leaving his or her favorite treat helps make your dog feel more comfortable while away. You can also provide a special treat for your dog. 

Bring Their Own Food

Boarding is already a stressful experience and may have a stressful effect on your dog's digestive system. Making sure your dog is on a food that he or she is already used to eating can help minimize gastric discomfort. Many dogs are too nervous to eat when they first arrive at the kennel, so having a familiar food prevents this from happening.

Don't Forget About Medication

Many medications need to be given at regular intervals, and forgetting to pack a medication can cause health issues to resurface. Make sure the kennel you are boarding at has a schedule of your dog's medication times and dosages to ensure your dog gets the necessary care.

Don't Make A Fuss Out of Leaving Them at the Kennel

Many owners have a hard time and tend to make a big deal out of leaving. This increases the excitement level for your dog and can increase anxiety about your leaving. The high anxiety and excitement may cause your dog to become destructive and make the stay less pleasant. Instead, calmly say goodbye, offer a treat, and make your exit as quietly as possible.

Don't Make A Fuss About Returning to Pick Up Your Dog

Just as with leaving, being too excited when you are picking up your dog can lead to separation anxiety down the road. You can certainly greet your dog in a happy voice and offer pets and treats, but try not to make too big of a deal until you get home.