Dog Boarding Guidelines: Everything You Need To Know For A Hassle-Free Experience

 

Leaving your furry friend behind while you’re away can be a stressful experience, both for you and your pet.

Dog boarding facilities provide a safe and comfortable environment for your pet while you’re away, but it’s important to understand the guidelines and expectations of dog boarding to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for your furry friend.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the key guidelines for dog boarding, including selecting the perfect boarding facility, preparing your dog for their stay, vaccination requirements, feeding instructions and dietary restrictions, packing essential items, medication, and special needs, behavioral expectations and policies, visiting hours and communication, and pick-up and drop-off procedures.

By understanding these guidelines and expectations, you can ensure that your pet receives the best possible care and attention during their stay and that you can have peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is in good hands.

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What is Dog Boarding?

Dog boarding is a service that provides temporary care and accommodation for dogs in a specialized facility or kennel while their owners are away. This can include short-term stays, such as a weekend getaway, or longer-term stays, such as extended travel or hospitalization.

Boarding facilities provide a safe and comfortable environment for dogs, complete with amenities such as feeding, exercise, and socialization. Some facilities may also offer additional services such as training, grooming, and medical care.

Boarding facilities can range in size and scope, from small, home-based businesses to larger commercial facilities. Some facilities may offer a range of amenities, such as private rooms, outdoor play areas, and group playtime with other dogs. Others may specialize in specific services, such as training or medical care.

When choosing a boarding facility, it’s important to consider factors such as the facility’s location, size, services offered, and reputation.

It’s also important to consider any special needs or requirements your dog may have, such as medical needs, dietary restrictions, or behavioral issues.

Overall, dog boarding is a popular option for pet owners who are traveling or unable to care for their pets temporarily.

By providing a safe and comfortable environment for dogs, boarding facilities can provide peace of mind knowing that their furry friends are being well-cared for in their absence.

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Why Follow Dog Boarding Rules

Dog boarding rules are essential for ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for your pet. By adhering to these guidelines, you help maintain a high standard of care for all animals at the facility, giving you peace of mind while you’re away.

1. Safety of Your Pet

One of the primary reasons to follow dog boarding rules is to ensure the safety of your pet. By adhering to vaccination requirements and providing accurate medical information, you can help ensure that your dog is not exposed to any preventable illnesses or diseases.

Similarly, by following behavioral policies, you can help prevent any accidents or injuries that may occur as a result of aggressive behavior or lack of supervision.

2. Safety of Other Pets

In addition to the safety of your own pet, following dog boarding rules also helps to maintain a safe environment for other pets in the facility.

By providing accurate medical documentation and adhering to vaccination requirements, you can help prevent the spread of illnesses and diseases to other pets.

Similarly, by following behavioral policies, you can help prevent any aggressive behavior towards other animals in the facility.

3. High Standard of Care

Many dog boarding facilities have specific protocols in place to ensure the well-being of each pet. This can include requirements for vaccinations and medical documentation, as well as policies regarding behavior, feeding, and medication.

By following these rules and providing accurate information, you can help ensure that your dog receives the best possible care during their stay.

4. Prevention of Unexpected Fees

Failure to follow dog boarding rules may result in unexpected fees or charges. For example, failure to provide up-to-date vaccination records may result in additional fees or even denial of entry to the facility.

Similarly, not providing clear feeding instructions or medication details may result in your dog not receiving the proper care they need during its stay.

5. Avoidance of Complications

By following dog boarding rules, you can help avoid any potential complications that may arise during your pet’s stay. Providing clear instructions for feeding and medication can help prevent any confusion or miscommunication between you and the boarding facility staff.

Similarly, adhering to behavioral policies can help prevent any misunderstandings or conflicts that may arise between your pet and other animals in the facility.

Overall, following dog boarding rules is essential for ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for your pet. By selecting the right facility, preparing your dog, and adhering to requirements, you can have peace of mind knowing your furry friend is well taken care of while you’re away.

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2. Selecting the Perfect Dog Boarding Facility

Selecting the right dog boarding facility is crucial for ensuring that your pet receives the best possible care during their stay. In this section, we will discuss the factors to consider when selecting a dog boarding facility, including:

1. Location

The location of a dog boarding facility is an important factor to consider. Ideally, the facility should be located in a safe and accessible area, with easy access to emergency services if needed.

It’s also important to consider the proximity to your home or travel destination, as well as the facility’s proximity to any activities or amenities that your dog may enjoy.

2. Facility Size and Amenities

The size and amenities of the facility can have a significant impact on your pet’s comfort and enjoyment during their stay. Consider the size of the kennels or boarding areas, as well as the availability of outdoor space for exercise and play.

Other amenities to consider may include access to grooming services, playtime with other dogs, and enrichment activities to keep your pet engaged and stimulated.

3. Staff Qualifications and Experience

The qualifications and experience of the staff at a dog boarding facility are also important to consider. Look for facilities that employ trained and experienced staff who are knowledgeable about dog behavior and care.

Ask about staff-to-dog ratios, and ensure that there are enough staff members on hand to provide adequate care and attention to each pet.

4. Health and Safety Protocols

The health and safety protocols in place at a dog boarding facility are essential for ensuring that your pet stays healthy and safe during their stay. Ask about the facility’s vaccination requirements, as well as their protocols for addressing any potential health issues that may arise.

It’s also important to inquire about the facility’s policies regarding aggressive behavior and emergency procedures.

5. Customer Reviews and References

Finally, it’s important to consider customer reviews and references when selecting a dog boarding facility. Look for facilities with positive reviews from other pet owners, and ask for references from the facility to speak with other satisfied customers.

This can help you get a better sense of the level of care and service provided by the facility, and help you make an informed decision about where to board your pet.

Overall, selecting the perfect dog boarding facility requires careful consideration of several key factors, including location, facility size, and amenities, staff qualifications and experience, health and safety protocols, and customer reviews and references.

By taking the time to research and compare facilities in your area, you can find the perfect place for your furry friend to stay while you’re away.

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3. Preparing Your Dog for Boarding

Preparing your dog for boarding is an essential step in ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for your pet. In this section, we will discuss the steps you should take to prepare your dog for boarding, including:

1. Update Vaccinations and Medical Records

Before boarding your dog, ensure that all of its vaccinations are up-to-date and that you have accurate medical records available. Many boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations, so it’s important to have this information readily available.

Additionally, ensure that any medical conditions or special needs are clearly outlined in your pet’s records.

2. Prepare Your Dog’s Belongings

Providing familiar items like bedding, toys, and food/water bowls can help your dog feel more comfortable during their stay. Ensure that all items are labeled with your dog’s name and your contact information.

It’s also important to check with the boarding facility regarding any restrictions on items that can be brought from home.

3. Provide Clear Feeding and Medication Instructions

To ensure that your dog receives proper care during their stay, provide clear instructions for feeding and medication. Ensure that all food and medication are properly labeled with your dog’s name, dosage, and administration instructions.

It’s also important to provide any necessary feeding supplies, such as measuring cups or spoons.

4. Prepare Your Dog Emotionally

Preparing your dog emotionally for its stay can help reduce stress and anxiety. Maintain your dog’s routine as much as possible, including feeding and exercise schedules. Spend extra time with your dog in the days leading up to their stay, and provide plenty of love and attention.

5. Take Your Dog for a Trial Visit

If possible, take your dog for a trial visit to the boarding facility. This can help your dog become familiar with the environment and staff, and help reduce any anxiety or stress they may feel during their stay.

During the trial visit, observe how your dog interacts with the staff and other pets, and ask any questions you may have about the facility’s policies and procedures.

Overall, preparing your dog for boarding is essential for ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for your pet.

By updating vaccinations and medical records, preparing your dog’s belongings, providing clear feeding and medication instructions, preparing your dog emotionally, and taking your dog for a trial visit, you can help ensure that your furry friend has a stress-free and enjoyable stay while you’re away.

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4. Vaccination Requirements

Vaccination requirements are a crucial aspect of dog boarding, as they help prevent the spread of diseases and illnesses among pets. In this section, we will discuss the common vaccination requirements for dog boarding facilities, including:

1. Rabies

Rabies is a deadly virus that is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Most states require that dogs receive a rabies vaccine, which is typically administered annually or every three years, depending on the vaccine used.

Many boarding facilities require proof of current rabies vaccination, so it’s important to ensure that your dog’s vaccination is up-to-date.

2. Distemper

Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs and other animals. Symptoms can include fever, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The distemper vaccine is typically administered as part of a combination vaccine that also includes protection against other diseases like parvo and adenovirus.

3. Bordetella

Bordetella, also known as kennel cough, is a respiratory disease that is highly contagious among dogs. The bordetella vaccine is typically administered annually or every six months, depending on the vaccine used.

Many boarding facilities require proof of a current bordetella vaccination, as it is a common requirement for dogs staying in close quarters with other animals.

4. Canine Influenza

Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease that is caused by two different strains of the influenza virus. The canine influenza vaccine is typically administered annually or every six months, depending on the vaccine used.

Some boarding facilities may require proof of current canine influenza vaccination, especially if there have been recent outbreaks in the area.

5. Other Vaccinations

In addition to the vaccines mentioned above, there are other vaccines that may be required or recommended by boarding facilities. For example, the leptospirosis vaccine can help protect against a bacterial disease that is transmitted through the urine of infected animals.

The Lyme disease vaccine can help protect against a bacterial disease that is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks.

Overall, vaccination requirements are an essential aspect of dog boarding, as they help prevent the spread of diseases and illnesses among pets.

By ensuring that your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date, you can help protect your pet’s health and safety, as well as the health and safety of other animals in the facility.

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5. Feeding Instructions and Dietary Restrictions

Feeding instructions and dietary restrictions are important considerations when boarding your dog. In this section, we will discuss the factors to consider when providing feeding instructions and dietary restrictions, including:

1. Portion Sizes and Feeding Schedule

Providing clear feeding instructions, including portion sizes and feeding schedules, can help ensure that your dog receives proper nutrition during their stay.

Provide detailed information on how much food to give and how often, and ensure that any necessary feeding supplies are provided.

2. Type of Food

The type of food you provide for your dog during their stay is also important to consider. Ensure that the food you provide is of good quality and is appropriate for your dog’s age and breed.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or has been on a special diet, provide specific instructions on the type of food it should receive.

3. Special Dietary Needs

Some dogs may have special dietary needs, such as a requirement for low-fat or low-protein diets. It’s important to provide clear instructions on any special dietary needs your dog may have, including any necessary food substitutions or restrictions.

4. Allergies and Food Sensitivities

If your dog has any known allergies or food sensitivities, it’s important to provide clear instructions on what foods to avoid. This can help prevent any adverse reactions during your pet’s stay.

5. Supplements and Medication

If your dog requires supplements or medication during their stay, provide clear instructions on how to administer them. Ensure that all supplements and medication are properly labeled with your dog’s name, dosage, and administration instructions.

Overall, providing clear feeding instructions and dietary restrictions is essential for ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for your pet during their stay.

By considering portion sizes and feeding schedules, the type of food, special dietary needs, allergies and food sensitivities, and supplements and medication, you can help ensure that your furry friend receives the proper care and nutrition while you’re away.

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6. Pack Essential Items for Your Dog’s Stay

Packing essential items for your dog’s stay is an important step in ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience for your pet. In this section, we will discuss the items you should consider packing for your dog’s stay, including:

1. Food and Treats

Providing enough food and treats for your dog’s stay is essential. Pack enough food for the duration of your dog’s stay, along with any necessary feeding supplies, such as measuring cups or spoons.

If your dog is on a special diet or has specific dietary needs, ensure that you provide enough food and any necessary instructions.

2. Medication and Supplements

If your dog requires medication or supplements, ensure that you pack enough for the duration of their stay. Clearly label all medication and supplements with your dog’s name, dosage, and administration instructions.

3. Bedding and Comfort Items

Providing familiar bedding and comfort items, such as blankets or a favorite toy, can help your dog feel more comfortable and relaxed during their stay. Ensure that all items are clearly labeled with your dog’s name and your contact information.

4. Toys and Enrichment Items

Toys and enrichment items can help keep your dog entertained and stimulated during their stay. Consider packing a variety of toys, such as chew toys and puzzle toys, to help keep your dog engaged and entertained.

5. Leashes and Collars

It’s important to pack your dog’s leash and collar for their stay. Ensure that the collar fits properly and has identification tags with your contact information. If your dog requires a harness or any other special equipment, ensure that you pack this as well.

Overall, packing essential items for your dog’s stay is an important step in ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience for your pet.

By considering food and treats, medication and supplements, bedding and comfort items, toys and enrichment items, and leashes and collars, you can help ensure that your furry friend has everything they need to feel comfortable and happy during their stay.

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7. Medication and Special Needs

If your dog requires medication or has special needs, it’s important to communicate this information to the boarding facility.

In this section, we will discuss the steps you should take to ensure that your dog’s medication and special needs are properly addressed during their stay, including:

1. Communicate Clearly

When making arrangements for your dog’s stay, it’s important to communicate clearly with the boarding facility about any medication or special needs your dog may have. Be sure to provide detailed information about your dog’s condition and any necessary treatment.

2. Label the Medication

When packing medication for your dog’s stay, ensure that all medication is properly labeled with your dog’s name, dosage, and administration instructions. This can help prevent any confusion or errors in administering medication.

3. Provide Detailed Instructions

Provide clear and detailed instructions on how to administer your dog’s medication or treatment. This can include information on when to give the medication, any special instructions for administering the medication, and any potential side effects to watch for.

4. Follow Up with the Facility

Follow up with the boarding facility to ensure that your dog’s medication and special needs are being properly addressed. Check-in regularly to ensure that your dog is receiving their medication as prescribed and that any necessary treatments are being provided.

Overall, ensuring that your dog’s medication and special needs are properly addressed during their stay is essential for their health and well-being.

By communicating clearly, labeling medication, providing detailed instructions, and following up with the facility, you can help ensure that your furry friend receives the proper care and attention they need during their stay.

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8. Behavioral Expectations and Policies

Behavioral expectations and policies are an important aspect of dog boarding, as they help ensure the safety and well-being of all pets and staff members. In this section, we will discuss the common behavioral expectations and policies of dog boarding facilities, including:

1. Aggressive Behavior

Most boarding facilities have policies in place regarding aggressive behavior. If your dog has a history of aggression towards other animals or humans, it’s important to communicate this information to the facility. Depending on the severity of the behavior, the facility may not be able to accommodate your pet.

2. Noise and Disturbance

Excessive barking or other loud behavior can be disruptive to other pets and staff members. Most facilities have policies in place to address excessive noise and disturbance, which may include providing extra exercise or reducing stimulation.

3. House Training

House training is an important aspect of pet care. Ensure that your dog is properly house trained before boarding, and communicate any specific requirements or habits to the facility. Most facilities have policies in place to address accidents or other house training issues.

4. Socialization and Playtime

Socialization and playtime are important aspects of your dog’s stay. Ensure that your dog is comfortable with other animals and is properly socialized before boarding.

Communicate any specific playtime requirements or preferences to the facility, and ensure that your dog receives plenty of exercise and socialization during their stay.

5. Escaping and Supervision

Escaping and unsupervised behavior can be dangerous for your pet and other animals in the facility. Ensure that your dog is properly supervised and that all necessary precautions are taken to prevent escaping or other risky behavior.

Overall, understanding the behavioral expectations and policies of dog boarding facilities is important for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for your pet.

By considering policies regarding aggressive behavior, noise and disturbance, house training, socialization and playtime, and escaping and supervision, you can help ensure that your furry friend receives the proper care and attention during their stay.

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9. Visiting Hours and Communication

Visiting hours and communication are important considerations when boarding your dog. In this section, we will discuss the factors to consider when planning for visiting hours and communication with the boarding facility, including:

1. Visiting Hours

Most boarding facilities have specific visiting hours, which may be limited due to staffing and safety concerns. Ensure that you are familiar with the facility’s visiting hours and plan your visits accordingly. Some facilities may also require appointments for visits, so be sure to check ahead of time.

2. Communication Policies

Communication policies can vary among boarding facilities. Some facilities may provide regular updates on your pet’s stay, while others may only communicate in the case of an emergency. Ensure that you understand the facility’s communication policies and plan accordingly.

3. Emergency Contact Information

Providing emergency contact information is essential in case of an emergency. Ensure that the boarding facility has your current contact information and the contact information for at least one other emergency contact.

4. Regular Updates and Check-Ins

Regular updates and check-ins can help ease any concerns or anxiety you may have about your pet’s stay. Consider requesting regular updates or check-ins from the facility, or provide specific instructions on how and when you would like to be contacted.

5. Specific Instructions

If you have any specific instructions for your pet’s care or stay, be sure to communicate these to the facility in advance. This can include dietary requirements, medication instructions, or any other specific requests.

Overall, planning for visiting hours and communication with the boarding facility is an important aspects of your pet’s stay.

By considering the facility’s visiting hours and communication policies, providing emergency contact information, requesting regular updates and check-ins, and communicating any specific instructions, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your furry friend.

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10. Pick-up and Drop-off Procedures

Pick-up and drop-off procedures are important considerations when boarding your dog. In this section, we will discuss the factors to consider when planning for pick-up and drop-off, including:

1. Arrival Time and Procedures

Most boarding facilities have specific arrival procedures for drop-off. Ensure that you are familiar with the facility’s procedures and plan to arrive within the designated time frame. Some facilities may require a health check or other screening procedures upon arrival.

2. Payment and Fees

Ensure that you are familiar with the facility’s payment and fee policies, and plan accordingly. Most facilities require payment at the time of pick-up, and may require a deposit or payment in advance.

3. Paperwork and Documentation

Ensure that you have all necessary paperwork and documentation for your pet’s stay, including proof of vaccinations and any other required documentation. It’s important to communicate any special needs or requirements to the facility in advance.

4. Departure Time and Procedures

Most facilities have specific departure procedures for pick-up. Ensure that you are familiar with the facility’s procedures and plan to arrive within the designated time frame. Some facilities may require a health check or other screening procedures upon departure.

5. Emergency Contact Information

Providing emergency contact information is essential in case of an emergency. Ensure that the boarding facility has your current contact information and the contact information for at least one other emergency contact.

Overall, planning for pick-up and drop-off procedures is an important aspect of your pet’s stay.

By considering arrival and departure procedures, payment and fees, paperwork and documentation, emergency contact information, and any other specific requirements, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your furry friend.

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Conclusion

Following dog boarding rules and guidelines is crucial for ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for your pet.

By selecting the right facility, preparing your dog, and adhering to requirements, you can have peace of mind knowing your furry friend is well taken care of while you’re away.

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Questions People Also Ask: (FAQs)

 

What is the typical cost of dog boarding?

The cost of dog boarding varies depending on the facility, location, and amenities offered. On average, you can expect to pay between $25 to $85 per night. Always research and compare prices for facilities in your area.

 

How can I help my dog feel more at ease during their stay?

To help your dog feel comfortable, provide familiar items like bedding and toys. Maintain their routine by keeping consistent feeding and walking schedules. A trial visit can also help your dog become familiar with the facility and staff.

 

Can I board my dog if they have separation anxiety?

If your dog has separation anxiety, discuss this with the boarding facility. Some facilities have trained staff who can handle dogs with anxiety. It’s essential to communicate your dog’s needs and consider additional services such as one-on-one attention or extra playtime.

 

How long can I board my dog?

The length of time you can board your dog depends on the facility and your dog’s adaptability. While some dogs may be comfortable with long-term stays, others may struggle. Discuss your specific needs with the facility and consider arranging regular visits if your dog will be boarding for an extended period.

 

What happens if my dog gets sick or injured while boarding?

In case of illness or injury, boarding facilities have protocols in place to address the situation. They will typically attempt to contact you or your emergency contact and consult with your veterinarian or an on-call veterinarian. It’s crucial to provide accurate contact information and ensure your dog’s medical history is up-to-date.

 

Can I bring my dog’s bed and toys to the boarding facility?

Yes, it’s encouraged to bring your dog’s bed and toys, as familiar items can help them feel more comfortable and reduce stress during their stay.

 

Is it necessary to have my dog spayed or neutered before boarding?

Some boarding facilities require dogs to be spayed or neutered, while others do not. Always check the specific requirements of the facility you plan to use and ensure your dog meets their criteria.

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