Now that you’ve arranged for your dog’s care while you’re away, it’s time to pack everything they’ll need. The following supplies are required regardless of where you board your pet. Before putting your dog off at the boarding facility, you must pack the following essentials. Make a list to keep track of everything so that nothing gets overlooked.
Identification
Even if you only keep your dog at home, proper identification is an important part of dog ownership. However, you must verify that your pet’s information is up to date throughout boarding time. The most efficient type of canine identification is a collar with an ID tag and a microchip.
They should each include your dog’s name, phone number, and address. You should also almost certainly include emergency contact information. Prior to boarding, make sure you also get your pet’s dental health in check, and if you don’t know of a pet dentist, simply look up “vet dentist near me.”
Emergency Contact Details
It is prudent to leave emergency contact information for your dog, just as you would for a human child. If you’re leaving town, include the name and phone number of someone in the area who can help the boarding facility care for your dog in an emergency. Your best bet is a friend or family member because they will most likely get along well with your dog.
You should also include the information from your veterinarian. If something happens while you’re away, your dog’s regular veterinarian will have access to his or her health data and can use them as a resource. If your primary care veterinarian cannot help, he or she can transport your pet from the boarding facility to a nearby emergency clinic.
If you are familiar with the emergency clinics in your area, like Putnam North Animal Hospital, you should add them to the kennel’s list. The more information you provide, the better the kennel staff can respond to an emergency.
A Familiar Blanket or T-Shirt
It’s no surprise that our dogs miss us when we’re gone. A boarding facility or even a friend’s home can be stressful for our dogs, but leaving them with a familiar object can help them relax. A worn T-shirt or blanket is always a good option.
These items have a link to your scent, your dog’s scent, and your family members’ scents. The familiarity will help calm your dog if he becomes frightened or homesick, and packing these items into your dog’s backpack is straightforward. They are also smooth and physically soothing.
Favorite Snacks and Toys
If your dog spends the day somewhere other than home, he will most likely require activities to keep him entertained. Packing chews are a great way to keep your dog engaged during his visit. Bringing his favorite toys can also help him enjoy his stay and interact with new human and canine friends.
These items may also remind your dog of home, allowing him to keep a sense of regularity in his routine. For example, if your dog gets a certain treat at a certain time every day, you can ask the boarding facility to do the same.
Extra Food
Some boarding facilities include food, but a sudden shift in nutrition can be harmful to our pets, particularly during stressful times. You should pack your dog’s usual meals, whether staying with a friend or at an overnight daycare. You should also include extra meals in case something unexpected ruins your vacation plans.
Flights are delayed or missed for various reasons, and stays are extended. If this happens, ensure your dog has enough food to endure until you return. The last thing you want is an unexpected extension to upset your dog’s tummy.
Conclusion
If you want to ensure you’ve packed everything your dog will need for their boarding stay, call the boarding facility and speak with a staff member about what they require and what other dog owners typically bring when dropping off their pets for an extended stay.