As fun as it is to get away from home, leaving a pet behind while you’re on vacation can be challenging. Fortunately, there are many kennels that offer exceptional care and resources to keep your four-legged friend in good spirits during your trip. But just as it takes time to plan out your own travel itinerary, you’ll also need to prepare for your pet’s boarding experience as well. If you’re planning a trip, here are a few ways you and your veterinarian can prepare for all your pet boarding needs.

5 Pet Boarding Preparation Tips

1. Research & Book Early

Kennels can fill up fast, so book a spot as soon as you can. To make sure you select the right facility for your pet, look at reviews and tour the building. Prioritize those that offer attentive care, comfortable quarters, and ample play space. If you’re not sure where to go, ask your veterinarian for a reference.

2. Plan Out Meals

To keep your furry friend nourished throughout your trip, write down all their feeding instructions—including what they eat, how much, and when. You should also pack enough food, plus some extra, to make sure your pet’s bowl never runs empty.

3. Provide Clear Instructions for Medical Care

If your pet has any special medical needs, inform the kennel staff in writing and provide clear instructions—such as when to apply ointments or when to provide prescription medications. You should also provide the contact information for your veterinarian, so the boarding facility will know who to call in the event of an emergency.

4. Pack Away Comfort Items

Even sociable cats and dogs are bound to get a little lonely and homesick when they’re staying in a kennel. To help your companion feel at ease, pack away a few items that will give them comfort—such as a T-shirt with your smell on it, a favorite toy, or a cozy blanket.

5. Get Current With Vaccinations

Most kennels require animals to be fully vaccinated before they arrive for a reservation. This immunization is required to ensure that no communicable diseases are brought into the facility—as well as protect your pet from potential exposure. Before your vacation, have a veterinarian update all your pet’s vaccines.

Getting your pet ready for boarding is easy when you have Vintage Park Veterinary Clinic by your side. Providing comprehensive care in Sacramento, CA, this veterinarian can provide nutritional recommendations, fill medications, and update vaccinations to ensure your companion is kennel-ready. Making every client’s health a priority, this animal clinic can also provide in-depth health exams and pet dentistry checkups to catch and resolve medical issues early. To learn more about the pet services they offer, visit this Elk Grove animal clinic online, and call (916) 688-5486 to schedule an appointment.