Pet Boarding 101: Tips From the Experts
If you’re planning to hit the road or fly the friendly skies for a late-summer escape, the following boarding tips from our team at East Sacramento Veterinary Center can help you make an informed decision if you choose to board your pet.
Preparing My Dog for Boarding
It’s always tough leaving pets in the care of others, but with a little pre-planning and due diligence, you’ll have peace of mind with your decision, and your pet will be able to adapt more easily to pet boarding. Here are some general boarding tips to help you prepare your dog (or cat!) for boarding:
Plan a trial run. Schedule an overnight visit or, at the very least, a full tour of the facility prior to your pet’s “big stay.” This will give you and your pet a prime opportunity to view the amenities firsthand and introduce your pet to the staff.
Schedule a medical checkup. Visit your veterinarian for a wellness checkup before your pet’s boarding stay to make sure your cat or dog is completely up to date on necessary vaccines and boosters.
Adjust their sleep habits. Does your pet sleep with you? If so, you may want to help them get adjusted to sleeping alone before their stay at a boarding facility.
What to Look for in a Boarding Facility
Save time by narrowing down your choices before you start touring. Do your research, ask family and friends for recommendations, and read online reviews. The boarding facility just down the street might be convenient, but it may not be the best option for your pet.
For your cat’s or dog’s optimal comfort and pet safety, search for a pet boarding facility that offers the following features:
- Strict vaccination, deworming, and parasite prevention requirements
- Natural lighting
- A clean, secure building and grounds
- Minimal odor
- Appropriately spacious lodging
- A compassionate team with a genuine interest in your pet’s needs
- Separate area for cats
- Opportunities for exercise
- On-site veterinarian
- A detailed pet safety plan for emergencies and natural disasters
- Dietary accommodations
- Medication administration if needed
- High-quality ventilation and temperature control
Other Nice Touches:
- Grooming
- Training classes
- Basic wellness services
- Doggie daycare (for social interaction)
- Webcams that allow you to watch your pet
Go With Your Gut
The staff at any pet boarding facility should welcome you and your pet with open arms and be willing to thoroughly answer all of your questions. Watch how members of the staff interact with your pet when you visit. If you don’t feel completely comfortable—even if you can’t pinpoint a reason—listen to your gut and move on to another facility.
We’re Here to Help!
We want your pet’s boarding stay to go smoothly. Contact us to schedule a wellness visit or if you need documentation for your pet’s stay at a pet boarding facility.