Leaving your pet behind while you travel can feel stressful—but with the right preparation, boarding can be a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for your furry friend. If you are heading out on vacation or taking a work trip, making sure that your pet is properly prepared for their stay can help reduce stress for both of you. Follow this guide from Sequoyah Waggin’ Tails Lodge for how to get your pet ready for their boarding stay.
Step 1: Choose the Right Boarding Facility
Not all pet boarding facilities are the same. Take time to research and visit the facility in advance to ensure it meets your pet’s needs. A reputable boarding facility will gladly answer your questions and provide a tour before booking.
- Check Cleanliness & Safety Measures: The facility should be clean, well-maintained, and secure.
- Ask About Staff Experience: Check that the caregivers are trained in pet care, behavior, and emergency situations.
- Look at Accommodations: Does the facility provide spacious kennels and proper ventilation?
- Confirm Daily Routines: Ask about feeding schedules, playtime, and other routines for dogs and cats.
Step 2: Make Sure Your Pet is Up to Date on Vaccinations
Most boarding facilities require up-to-date vaccinations to protect all pets from illness. Before boarding, make sure your pet has received their vaccines. Canines should be up to date on Rabies, Distemper (DAPP/DHPP), Bordetella (Kennel Cough), and possibly Canine Influenza for dog boarding. Cats will need Rabies and Feline Distemper (FVRCP). Some vaccinations, like Bordetella, may need to be given at least 14 days before boarding, so plan ahead!
Some vaccinations, like Bordetella, may need to be given at least 14 days before boarding, so plan ahead. Ask your boarding facility for a list of required vaccinations well in advance to avoid last-minute surprises. Other facility requirements may include proof of parasite prevention or other documentation from a veterinarian.
Step 3: Pack the Essentials Their Boarding Facility Stay
To make your pet’s stay more comfortable, pack a boarding bag with familiar and necessary items. Label all items with your pet’s name to prevent mix-ups during their stay.
- Food & Treats: Keeping your pet on their regular diet prevents digestive upset.
- Medication: If your pet takes medication, provide clear written instructions for the staff.
- Comfort Items: A favorite blanket, toy, or a T-shirt that smells like home can ease anxiety.
- Leash & Collar (for dogs): Make sure your dog arrives wearing a secure collar with an ID tag.
- Litter & Carrier (for cats): Some cat boarding facilities allow felines to use their own litter box for added comfort.
Step 4: Prepare Your Pet for the Boarding Experience
Pets thrive on routine, so making small adjustments before boarding can help them feel more at ease. If your pet has never been boarded, try leaving them with a friend or at daycare for a few hours to get them used to new environments. Stick to your pet’s usual schedule leading up to their stay. Avoid long, emotional farewells—pets can pick up on your stress, making separation harder.
If your pet experiences separation anxiety, ask the pet boarding facility about calming techniques or whether they allow special items like a pheromone diffuser.
Step 5: Provide Contact & Emergency Information
Before dropping off your pet, verify the boarding facility has all necessary emergency details, including:
- Your contact information (and a backup contact if you’re unreachable).
- Your veterinarian’s details in case medical attention is needed.
- Special care instructions (e.g. dietary restrictions, allergies, behavioral quirks).
A Smooth & Stress-Free Boarding Experience
At Sequoyah Waggin’ Tails Lodge, we know that with the right preparation, boarding doesn’t have to be stressful—for you or your pet! By choosing the right facility, packing familiar items, and easing your pet into the experience, you can make sure they have a safe and comfortable stay while you’re away.
Looking for a trusted boarding facility? Sequoyah Waggin’ Tails Lodge boards cats and dogs from Soddy Daisy, Chattanooga, Dunlap, and neighboring areas. Book a stay with us and give your pet a home-away-from-home experience!