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While families are traveling this holiday season, cats and dogs need a safe place to stay. Many pet owners rely on boarding facilities to give their pet the care and attention they need. Like first-time vet or groomer visits, you’ll need to help your pet adjust to this unfamiliar setting. Use the following guide to prepare your furry friend for their stay.

How to Ensure a Positive Boarding Experience for Your Pet

1. Visit the Boarding Facility

Keep in mind that if you haven’t boarded your pet before, they’ll be staying in a new environment. Pay a few visits to the facility before you leave to help acclimate your pet to the facility. Request a tour on your first visit, where your pet can greet the staff and explore the building.

2. Ensure Vaccines Are Up-to-Date

Boarding facilities require pets to be up-to-date on their vaccinations to ensure all guests stay safe and healthy. If needed, take your furry friend to the vet well before your trip to receive their vaccines. They will need to be immunized against rabies, distemper, parvovirus, parainfluenza, bordetella, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and fleas and ticks.

3. Pack Necessities & Comfort Items

Along with their usual vetfood and medications, contact information, and specific instructions for care, pack items that will give your pet extra comfort. If the kennel allows personal belongings, bring toys and shirts or blankets that smell like home. Take a baggie of their favorite treats, and ask the staff to give one to your pet each day.

4. Consider Socialization Classes

For pets that don’t frequently interact with other animals, socialization classes may be necessary before boarding. These training courses will help your pet adjust to being around other animals and even enjoy their company. If you don’t have the time or funds, your pet might prefer a private room at a kennel.

5. Give Your Pet a Workout

If you’re worried about your pet being nervous, have them expend some energy before dropping them off. Take your dog for a vigorous walk or a game of fetch, or get your cat moving with their favorite toy. By the time you arrive at the boarding facility, they’ll be relaxed and ready for a nap.

 

Looking for a boarding facility for your pet while you’re away from home? Bring them to Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic on Oahu. For over 29 years, this full-service veterinary clinic has offered exceptional care for cats and dogs throughout the neighborhood. From vaccinations and surgery to expert pet care advice, they provide every service your pet needs to lead a long and healthy life. Call (808) 625-6744 to schedule an appointment with a vet. For additional information about their services, visit the website.

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