When you’re planning a trip, one of the most important things to think about is where your dog will stay while you're away. Finding a good dog boarding facility can give you peace of mind, knowing that your furry friend is in good hands and will be well-cared for while you're out of town. However, preparing your dog for boarding is key to ensuring the experience is as stress-free as possible—especially if it's their first time.
Taking the time to get your dog ready for boarding can make a world of difference in how they adjust to the new environment. Whether it’s familiarizing them with the facility beforehand or ensuring they have all the essentials they need for their comfort and health, proper preparation can help minimize anxiety for both you and your pet. In this article, we'll share some helpful tips for getting your dog ready for their stay at a boarding facility.
Tips for Boarding Your Dog
Boarding your dog for the first time can be an adjustment, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Proper preparation will ensure a smooth experience. Here are some strategies to help you ensure your dog is comfortable:
Choose the Right Boarding Facility: Research local boarding facilities. Prioritize those with clean, safe environments and experienced trained staff. Schedule a tour to inspect the facilities, discuss policies, and confirm emergency veterinary care availability.
Update Your Dog’s Health Records: Confirm your dog is current on vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and any specific requirements of the boarding facility. When checking in, be prepared to present a copy of your records showing proof of vaccinations for rabies, distemper, and Bordetella.
Bring Familiar Items: Pack your dog's favorite blanket, toy, or an old T-shirt with your scent. These familiar items can significantly reduce anxiety in a new place. Also, pack any food, treats, and medicine with clear administration instructions your furry friend might need during their stay.
Stick to Their Routine: To minimize stress and ease the transition, the boarding facility should maintain your dog’s usual feeding and walking times as closely as possible.
Test Short Stays First: Book a short visit before committing to a more extended stay. This brief stay allows your dog to become familiar with the facility and staff, making longer stays easier.
These tips canl help your dog feel secure, ensuring a positive boarding experience.
Preparing Your Home for Travel
You should prepare your home before leaving for your trip and dropping your dog at the kennel. Proper preparation can protect your place and ensure everything stays safe while you're gone.
Secure Your Home: Check that all your doors and windows are locked. If you have sliding doors, consider adding extra locks or security bars. Motion-sensor lights or security cameras can also be a good idea as they can scare off potential intruders and let you monitor your home remotely.
Take Care of Valuables: Stash valuables like jewelry, electronics, and important documents somewhere safe so they're not easy to grab if someone does get in.
Inform Trusted Neighbors: When you plan to travel, let a trusted neighbor know and give them your emergency contact information. They can watch your house, grab your mail, and let you know if anything seems off.
Set Up Mail and Package Hold: To prevent it from looking like nobody's home, put a hold on your mail or ask your neighbor to pick it up. You can also request delivery services hold your packages until you return.
Secure the Right Home Insurance: Before you go, double-check your home insurance policy to ensure your coverage extends to unexpected damage or theft. If you're not sure, call your insurance agent and see if you need to make any updates.
By boarding your pet, securing your home, and reviewing your insurance, you can relax and enjoy your trip, knowing your home and pet are well cared for.
Keep Your Pet and Home Safe With SelectQuote
When it comes to your pet and home, the last thing you want to worry about is what might happen while you're away. Whether preparing your dog for boarding or securing your home for travel, taking the right precautions can make all the difference in ensuring peace of mind. By planning ahead, making sure your dog is comfortable, and checking that your home is secure, you can fully enjoy your time away without added stress.
At SelectQuote, we know how much your home and pets mean to you. That’s why we offer comprehensive home insurance coverage that helps protect your property while you're away. If you're unsure about your current coverage or it’s been a while since you've looked at your policy, now's the perfect time to contact SelectQuote. With 40 years of industry experience, our licensed insurance agents will work to find you the home insurance coverage that fits your specific budget and needs.
