When you have to leave town, pet boarding is the best way to make sure your dog is taken care of while you’re away. This should be a positive experience for a pet, so it’s important to help them adjust to the upcoming situation. Here are a few tips to prepare your pup and ensure a successful boarding experience.

How to Prepare a Dog for Pet Boarding

1. Teach Your Dog to Sleep Alone

While having a pet sleep in the same bed as you may be comforting, your dog should be prepared to sleep without you during their boarding stay. At the pet boarding facility, they will need to adjust to being alone more often.

In the days leading up to the trip, consider having your pup sleep in their crate at night. This will ease the adjustment of having to sleep in a kennel.

2. Don’t Forget the Security Blanket

Leaving an item that has your scent on it can make a dog feel more comfortable while you’re away. Don’t forget to pack their favorite blanket or toy to remind them of home. These are very important since the dog will be in an unfamiliar place. Bringing a few familiar items will help ease the transition.

3. Keep Meals Light 

Your dog may sense that something is different, even before you start packing for the trip. This can leave them feeling excited or nervous.

Just like a person, these feelings can affect the digestive system, leaving pups feeling queasy. A heavy meal may not stay down during this adjustment period, so avoid over-feeding them leading up to your vacation. Keep the meals light to avoid an upset stomach. 

4. Make Sure Your Pet’s Records Are Up-to-Date

Most boarding facilities won’t accept a pet that hasn’t been properly vaccinated, so be sure their shots are up-to-date. Verify that your contact information, including address and phone number, is correct on their ID tags and microchip. This will ensure the staff at the boarding facility can reach you if a problem does arise. 

If you need reliable pet boarding while you’re away on a trip, trust Hickman Creek Kennel in Nicholasville, KY. They offer climate-controlled facilities that are monitored by their compassionate and skilled staff. Their five-acre property provides plenty of space to play, so you can feel confident that your dog will enjoy the mini-vacation. Learn more about their facilities online. To request an in-person tour or to schedule boarding, call (859) 885-3647.