Read on to learn the 6 essential things to pack when boarding your dog

Whether you are boarding your dog at a pet boarding facility or a friend’s house, make sure you pack everything your dog needs. We have put together a list of essential items that you need to bring for your dog’s boarding stay. If your dog is a first-time boarder and is unsure what to pack, these tips will help you big time.

Identification Tag

  • Proper identification is an integral part of dog ownership. If you plan to leave your dog at a boarding facility, ensure your pet’s identification information is up to date. The best way to do this is to update the collar with an ID tag and your phone number. It is also a great idea to have your dog microchipped. Ensure that all the contact information is accurate.

Pack Favorite Snacks And Belongings

  • When dogs are away from their comfort space, they may feel scared, angry, or anxious. Although boarding facilities are well-stocked, packing one or two of your dog’s favorite toys is a good idea. Your dog will likely appreciate having something familiar that reminds him of home. This will also provide a distraction if your dog feels homesick at any time during his stay.

Pack his favorite snacks and chew toys to make your dog’s stay enjoyable. In addition, if your dog has favorite bedding, you should bring it along to make him feel secure and safe in the new environment. But first, check with the facility if they allow the items you wish to bring.

Provide Emergency Contact Information

  • While you are away, make sure you leave emergency contact information for your dog. Provide contact information of someone in the area who can help care for your dog in an emergency.

Emergency contact information should include:

  • The contact number of a friend or family member.
  • Veterinarian’s name, address, and phone number.

The more information you provide, the better boarding staff will respond to an emergency.

Pack Extra Food Than The Dog Needs

  • Even though some of the boarding facilities offer food to pets, a sudden change in diet may make your dog uncomfortable. Boarding is already stressful for dogs if you change the type of food the dog eats typically, it can lead to indigestion, runny poops, or gas.

It is better to pack your dog’s usual food. In addition, it is essential to pack more food than the dog needs. This will be helpful if your flight gets delayed and your dog has to stay longer than expected.

Pack Prescribed Supplements

  • boarding your dogIf your dog has been prescribed medications by the vet or takes supplements with food, pack them in your dog’s stuff. Common examples include salmon oil, yogurt, and other natural supplements that support healthy joints and digestion. Instruct the boarding staff on how much of a supplement or medicine to give and how often.

Being in a new place and around other dogs can aggravate an existing condition of your dog. Therefore, it is a good idea to pack emergency medicines that your dog might need.

Pack Dog Leash

  • When you are packing your dog’s belongings, pack two leashes. A leash is necessary for walking your dog. So it’s wise to pack two in case one gets lost. Double check that you have packed everything your dog will need for his boarding stay. Call and check in with the boarding facility to determine if they have additional requirements.

You can enjoy your vacation better when you are satisfied that your dog is safe and in the right hands. Autumn Trails Veterinary Center offers veterinarian-supervised, safe, convenient, and affordable boarding. For further information, give us a call at 434-971-9800. We can help you plan your pet’s stay.