When you’re going on a trip and can’t bring your cat or dog, taking them to a pet boarding facility will ensure they receive quality care. But if your four-legged friend gets anxious about being away from you, leaving them behind is even harder. To ensure your animal has the best experience during the visit and make their “stay-cation” stress-free, follow these helpful tips.

How to Make Boarding Easier for Your Dog

1. Research the Best Site

Visit a variety of places and see what the accommodation, playtime, grooming, and emergency care protocols are for each location. Do they have a veterinarian on staff? How big is the exercise area? Will they let you bring toys and blankets from home? Talk about any specific needs your pet has and how the staff can address them. Check reviews online, and ask friends and family for referrals, too.

2. Make a Day Visit

Some pet boarding sites let you visit with your pet before the stay. Organizing a few play dates before the trip will acclimate your furry friend to their vacation spot. They can meet and interact with the facility’s staff and get familiar with the sights and smells of a new environment.

3. Keep Calm

Pets are often sensitive to your mood. The calmer you are when dropping them off, the better. When leaving the pet boarding facility, give them a pat and walk away rather than making the departure a big deal. The same goes for pickup. You will be glad to see them, but don’t create anxiety or confusion by acting as if you thought you’d never see them again. Behaving as if it’s all a part of a routine will help the animal adjust to being boarded again.

Choosing a high-quality boarding facility will help your pet feel at ease while you’re away. Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital, serving the Columbia, MO, community in two locations, is committed to the health of your pet. They offer long-stay pet boarding facilities that include play, exercise, and grooming for dogs staying longer than two days. And you can rest easy knowing veterinarians are on staff if any health issues arise. Call (573) 449-3791 (Keene St.) or (573) 449-7387 (Buttonwood Dr.) to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their services.