Boarding a pet for the first time can be a stressful experience, both for the pet parents and the pets. There is always a feeling of guilt around leaving a beloved pet behind, especially when you are used to spending quality time together on a daily basis.
With some planning and research, the process of pet boarding can be made simpler. This article provides 7 important tips to consider for boarding a pet for the first time.
Choosing The Right Boarding Facility
One of the most crucial decisions is choosing a boarding facility that will provide quality care and keep your pet comfortable and happy during your absence.
Look for facilities that are clean, offer different accommodation options like suites, have experienced staff, and provide individualized attention to each pet.
Going through online reviews and first-hand experiences of other pet parents can help shortlist good options. You can also request facility tours in advance to check if your pet seems comfortable and staff interactions.
Make sure to ask about the facility’s protocols during your pre-book tour. Things like scheduled playtime and walks, policies regarding mealtimes, administering medications if any, and handling any medical emergencies are important to understand.
Proper licensing and certifications also indicate appropriate facilities. For example, facilities accredited by organizations like Dog Boarding Phoenix usually follow strict safety and hygiene standards.
Prepare Your Pet
Even if this is not their first boarding experience, preparing them in advance makes the transition smoother. Pack familiar toys, blankets, or beds from home, so they feel secure in a new place.
Consider a trial run by leaving them for a short overnight trip to a boarding facility before your actual trip. This “test run” lets them get used to the new environment and staff when you are not going too far. Also, get references from other trusted pet parents for the facility you select.
Gradually leave your pet on their own for increasing periods so they don’t panic about your absence later. Help them associate the boarding facility with positive rewards like treats or playtime. Calm them down before leaving instead of hurried or anxious goodbyes.
Have a plan to keep them engaged and entertained during boarding like exercise and play areas outlined by the facility. Ensure vaccinations are up to date, and medicines or special instruction details are shared with caregivers in advance.
Packing Tips For Pets
Send along your pet’s routine supplies to maintain their comfort – like their usual food, medications, toys, bedding with familiar smells, etc. Consider packing extra food in case you get delayed or your boarding period is extended.
Also share your pet’s feeding schedule and portions, any likes/dislikes clearly in written form. Enrichment items like puzzle toys can help keep them occupied too. Provide at least two weeks of food and medication supplies to cover any unplanned extended stays.
Put collars/harnesses, leashes, and carriers in a separate easily accessible bag for quick transit to the boarding facility. Carry digital photos and copies of important documents like vaccination and health records, in case of emergencies.
Pack supplies in a bag or labeled bin for easy handling and to avoid clutter. Having everything prepped helps reduce stress on the morning of drop-off.
Help Your Pet Adjust
When you return to pick up your pet after boarding, be patient with their initial reactions. Give them time and space without bombarding them with attention immediately upon seeing you, so they don’t associate your return with being over-crowded. Let them warm up to you gradually.
Have a low-key homecoming with calming activities instead of overexcitement which can stress recovering pets. Resume normal routines slowly. This helps ground them after their boarding experience.
Getting Expert Tips
Your vet can also guide you in choosing facilities and preparing pets. Reputable facilities will offer boarding consultations and address any concerns. Take their advice seriously since boarding experts manage various pet behaviors daily and know valuable tips.
Ask other pet owners for first-hand experiences. Their insights provide clarity on real-boarding scenarios and help set realistic expectations. Reading industry guides may give additional context around legal requirements and best practices. Pick the brains of all credible sources.
Check-Ins And Communication
Maintain contact with the boarding staff through periodic check-ins and pictures or videos, if possible, on the app. This helps your pet stay connected with you virtually.
Ask for updates on appetite, playtime, behavior, or health so you have peace of mind about their well-being.
Confirm understanding around check-in/out times beforehand. In case of emergencies, ensure contact numbers of staff and vets are shared with someone reliable who can step in. Communication keeps you both engrossed in their progress while away.
Ensure Smooth Checkout
Schedule pick-up time for checkouts in advance to avoid waiting periods with anxious pets. Carry all documents, supplies, and medicines back with you. Pay outstanding boarding bills promptly.
Consider a welcome-back gift or treats for pets and staff for their care during your absence. Provide constructive feedback to facilities for improving future boarding experiences. Ensure your pet has snacks or a favorite toy when leaving to reinforce their time at the facility on a positive note.
