Some tips for boarding pets

May 7, 2023 | Pet Advice

Abbey the Cardigan Corgi ready for breakfast and a run

No owner enjoys leaving their beloved pet behind, but unfortunately this is sometimes necessary. Consider the following tips for boarding pets to help make it a smooth process.

Things to do

  1. Vaccinate your mate – Most kennels require pets to be up-to-date on all vaccinations before boarding, particularly for a disease called kennel cough. Check your records, or contact your veterinarian to see if your pet is due for vaccination. Ask for a vaccination certificate so that you can present it to the kennel management.
  2. Check your pet’s microchip number – Write this number on the vaccination certificate. If you have a spare sticker, place it on the certificate.
  3. Check that flea and tick control are up-to-date – Many pets will be on monthly, 3-monthly, or 6-monthly flea and tick prevention. Check your records to confirm it is current.
  4. Pack your pet’s favourite items – Firstly, check with your kennel regarding what you can bring during boarding. Bringing your pet’s bed, blanket and a few toys creates a feeling of home and can reduce anxiety.
  5. Be sure your pet has a collar and ID – Update your pet’s collar with correct name, spelling and owner information. If your pet already has a collar that is not labelled, a container such as the UEETEK Stainless Steel Pet ID Barrel Tube that contains contact information, or a QR code with all the information embedded will provide peace-of-mind.
  6. Be calm and positive at drop-off – Create a relaxed atmosphere when dropping off your pet. Avoid fuss, just a simple, happy good-bye and be on your way.

Things to avoid

  1. Don’t change your pet’s diet – Continue to use your pet’s regular food leading up to boarding. You do not want to leave your pet with digestive problems while you are away. Call the boarding kennel to see if you can supply your own food.
  2. Don’t forget your pet’s schedule – If your pet is on medication or has special needs, type up your pet’s day-to-day schedule for the kennel staff. Don’t rely on verbal instructions.

Call to action

  1. Find your vaccination certificate or ask your vet for a new copy. Make sure vaccinations are up-to-date.
  2. Check flea and tick prevention status.
  3. Ensure your pet has a collar with clear identification details. One such as this UEETEK Stainless Steel Pet ID Barrel Tube is ideal.
  4. If you need advice on pet behaviour and how to maintain a relaxed atmosphere at drop-off time, call your veterinarian, or consider reading a book such as this text on dog training.