When you’re going out of town, the thought of leaving your dog at a boarding kennel can be unnerving. To ease your worries, it’s important to pack the pet boarding essentials so your dog will feel right at home. Here, Bar-King Dog Kennel on the Big Island of Hawaii shares a few reminders of what to bring to keep your dog comfortable.

5 Items to Pack for Your Dog When Pet Boarding

1. Identification

For most dog owners, keeping a collar on your pooch with an ID tag is normal. Make sure their tags are up-to-date with contact information such as your name, phone number, and address. If your dog is microchipped, the chip should match the information on the ID tag. Give the boarding facility emergency contact information, including phone numbers of trusted family members, your veterinarian, and friends nearby.

2. Medications

Many dogs require medication, treatments, or supplements, and that doesn’t stop when you’re away from home. Bring the medication your dog will need while pet boarding, as well as any emergency medication. Administering doses can be different for every pet, so write instructions for the boarding facility.

3. Instructions

You want your pooch to be as happy and comfortable as possible at the dog kennel, so note any special care instructions when dropping them off. Let the staff know how comfortable your dog is around other dogs, when and how much they should be fed, and any other relevant information. If you want your dog groomed while you’re away, let them know which treatments you’d like done.

4. Favorites From Home

Dogs can get homesick, especially in a new environment. Bark-King Dog Kennel provides plenty of playtime, attention, and affection, but a small reminder of family can be the extra comfort your dog needs. Bring a few of their favorite toys, treats, or even a blanket that smells like home.

5. Familiar Food

Kennels will most likely provide food for pets, but if your dog is particularly sensitive to changes in diet, bring a little more than enough of their usual food for the whole stay. Completely new food in an unfamiliar environment can result in an upset stomach and digestive problems. If these concerns apply to your dog, pack up their food to-go.

Dropping off your dog for pet boarding is tough, but at Bar-King Dog Kennel, you can rest assured your furry family member is in good hands. They offer plenty of options to optimize your dog’s stay, from grooming to VIP suites. Every animal is treated with love and gets ample time to run around and exercise. To set up an appointment, call (808) 966-8733 or visit them online.