The Best Ways to Prepare Your Dog for Boarding When You Are Going on Vacation

Are you a little anxious with the idea of dog boarding while you go on vacation or visit family for the weekend? Most pet lovers want to bring their loyal companion along with them whenever possible. It’s true most people have a “Love me and love my dog” mentality, but not everyone wants your dog around; and some will sadly be allergic to your furry sidekick. Unfortunately, not all vacation spots are compatible for bringing a pet along either. 

Just the thought of “Dog Boarding” can make you feel anxious. Will my dog feel like I’ve abandoned them? Will they be okay with strangers? Reading articles about animal health, might make you aware of separation anxiety in dogs; maybe you have a little separation anxiety too.

If the above thoughts are running through your head about dog boarding, here are 5 veterinarian approved ways to prepare your dog for happy boarding that will relieve anxiety for both of you:

1. Find the Right Dog Boarding Facility That Offers Activities Your Pet Will Enjoy

There are some truly great dog boarding facilities out there that offer fun activities your pet will enjoy. You can find a dog boarding place with tender loving puppy care so your pooch will feel cared for while you are enjoying your vacation. Finding the right dog boarding facility is the first step to prepare your dog for boarding.

Find the right dog boarding facility by seeking recommendations from your veterinarian, groomer, or other pet owners. When you find a dog boarding facility, see to it that the dog boarding place is: Clean, Secure, Free of Chemicals, Temperature Controlled, and has a nice outdoor space for play.

Ask questions like: 

• How many dogs are boarded at one time?
• How is playtime supervised?
• How often are dogs taken outside?
• Will they feed your dog its regular food?
• How are emergencies handled?
• Do the dog care providers have a pet first aid certificate?
• Will a staff member be on location overnight?

After you find what looks like a great dog boarding place – check it out in person!

2. Take a Tour of the Dog Boarding Facilities Before Making Your Decision

If you are thinking “gee, I’m still a little worried about boarding my dog while I’m away”, you should first take a tour of the dog boarding facility before making a reservation. It will be reassuring to know the environment your dog will be housed in and how kind the caretakers are ahead of time. Trust your instincts as to whether this is a good dog boarding place for your pup. The best dog boarding services will offer peace of mind by providing a professional fun/caring place for your dog to stay until your return. 

3. Plan a Trial Boarding Stay to See How Well your Pet Adjusts

Plan a 24 hour trial boarding stay if your dog is the nervous type or is prone to separation anxiety. Staying one full day head of time will introduce your dog to a new environment and a different daily routine. A trial boarding stay can adapt a possible home sick dog for a longer stay in the future at a dog boarding facility.



When you pick up your dog after a trial boarding stay, note how they are feeling. Is your dog tired but happy? Do they seem upset and ready to get out of there? You can build trust with your dog that you will always come back when you return to pick them up the next day. It will ease your concerns if you are thinking “will my dog think I abandoned him when I go on vacation?”

4. Take Steps to Keep Your Dog Comfortable While You Are Gone

There are a few steps you can take to keep your dog comfortable while you are gone: 

• Many of us allow our dogs to sleep on the bed with us at night. If this is true of you, make your dog sleep alone at home a few nights to prepare him for boarding. 
• Bring the dog food your fur-baby is used to eating. 
• Bring his/her favorite bed or cushion to sleep on. 
• Have a favorite toy along for the stay. 
• Make sure there are no dog illnesses to deal with by making an appointment with your veterinarian before boarding your dog.
• Finally, when you do drop your dog off for boarding, act like they are going to have a great time. If you act worried or sad, your dog will pick up on your emotions. 

Bring some of the comforts of home with your dog so they will have reminders of home when you are away. Maybe even throw in one of your t-shirts or sweatshirts so Fido will have snuffles of your scent when you are away.

5. Talk to Your Vet about Any Concerns

Talk to your vet about many concerns you may have. If you are boarding a dog with separation anxiety, your veterinarian may suggest medications such as Pheromone to ease anxiety. Trusted veterinarians will be knowledgeable about pet health while dog boarding and will comfort your concerns with valuable advice. 

Veterinary Specialists in Lee’s Summit: Chipman Road Animal Clinic

Every aspect of animal health is important to us at Chipman Road Animal Clinic. Our veterinary specialists in Lee’s Summit will comprehensively care for all the health needs of your pet including:

• Animal Hospital/Emergency care
• Dental care
• Flea and Tick control
• Microchipping
• Personalized medical care
• Puppy and Kitten care 
• Spay and Neuter
• Vaccinations
• Wellness exams

The Veterinarians at Chipman Road Animal Clinic provide the best veterinary care and treat your pets like our own. We get it; we understand the struggle when it’s time for dog boarding. We welcome your questions concerning dog boarding and are here to help.

Chipman Road Animal Clinic is located at 211 NW Chipman Road in Lee’s Summit. Stop in anytime for any reason; our open door policy is here for your convenience. For excellent veterinary care call Chipman Road Animal Clinic today: 816-524-1886.