Are you getting ready to go on a trip? Whether you’re going on the trip of a lifetime or just taking a work trip, you may have to leave your canine friend behind. Some people can arrange for a pet sitter to come to their house, but for many, boarding is the best choice. Travel preparations can be hectic, but you need to make sure that your canine companion is set. We are here to help! Read on for a ‘pawesome’ dog boarding checklist from your Nacogdoches County kennel.
Double Check Dates And Times
It is always a good idea to make sure that the days you have booked are correct. Making sure you know the exact times the kennel is open for drop-offs and pick-ups is also important. This is even more important if you are going or coming back on the weekend. The kennel staff would of course need to come in to take care of their furry charges, but that doesn’t mean the office is open.
Give Any Special Instructions In Writing
Does your dog have a chicken allergy? Are you worried that Fido will act out around other dogs or during storms? While the kennel may find it amusing to hear about how the cat always takes your pup’s bed, it’s more important for them to have information that pertains to his health and/or behavior. Make sure to give all the necessary information both orally and in writing.
Make Sure Fido’s ID Is Current
This is just good advice in general, even if you aren’t going away! Fido should always be wearing a collar with tags. (In many places, the law mandates this anyway.) These small items can be very important safety links if your pet were to get lost, either due to having escaped or because of an emergency. Likewise, your canine companion should be microchipped.
Make sure the information on both forms of identification is up-to-date and accurate. If you aren’t sure how to update microchip information, you can try using the Universal Pet Microchip Tool, which can be found here.
Prepare Your Pup’s Medicine
Does your four-legged friend need to take any medicine? This should be one of the first items you pack. It can be dangerous to miss even one dose of some medicines! Make sure the bottle has a clear label with your pet’s name, the daily dose, and when to give it.
Is your pet’s prescription coming up soon? We definitely recommend doing this before you go. You should add a few extra days, just in case you are delayed. This applies to supplements as well!
Vaccinations
Any good kennel will require this info before you leave. However, it’s probably wise to verify that they have all the necessary items, just in case. This is especially important if your pet is due for vaccinations or is almost due for one.
All decent kennels require core vaccines. Core vaccines are those that the American Animal Hospital Association suggests all dogs get, regardless of their age, health, location, or lifestyle. Canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus type 2, canine parvovirus type 2, and rabies are some of the most common core vaccines for dogs.
Then, there are non-core vaccinations. Fido’s location, lifestyle, and health will determine recommendations for these. Some of these are the Western diamondback rattlesnake toxoid, the canine leptospirosis vaccine, the canine influenza vaccine, and the canine bordetella vaccine.
Make sure you understand exactly what is needed. We require DHPP, Lepto, rabies, influenza, and Bordetella for Fido here at your Nacogdoches County pet hotel. (Note: if you board with your vet, they may have that information already.)
Take Care Of Paperwork
Kennels have slightly different criteria. Some may require proof of ownership, or basic itinerary information. A credit card may also be needed. Look over the papers and the kennel’s website. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call.
Pack Fido’s Food
Most facilities let you bring your pet’s food. This is important, as sudden dietary changes can irritate Fido’s furry tummy. You might be asked to separate kibble into portions and put each one in its own labeled ziplock bag. It’s always a good idea to ask!
If you are in the process of changing foods, make sure your pet has a few days to get used to the new food before you leave on your trip. If not, wait until you get back.
Read Over The Information
As we’ve already said, each kennel works a little differently. Take a moment to read through any papers. You might want to check out the boarding facility’s website, too. This is extra important if you’re trying out a new place!
Remember that you might be asked to provide your instructions and preferences about certain things, such as if you would like to be called for minor questions, or only in case of an emergency.
Confirm Emergency Contacts
Hopefully, your emergency contacts are not going to get a phone call from your kennel. However, it’s always better to be cautious when it comes to our beloved furry friends.
We ask for three emergency contacts. It’s always better to err on the side of caution here! We can’t stress enough how important it is to pick someone you can trust to make emergency choices about your furry friend.
Don’t forget to notify your contacts! If they are not going to be available on the date you have chosen, contact your next choice. You might need to get their cell phones and work numbers. It’s also a good idea to ask your contacts to add the kennel’s numbers to their contact lists, so they’ll know to pick up.
The kennel should also have your vet’s office’s phone number. If you visit an alternative clinic for emergency treatment, provide their information as well.
Ask About Kennel Extras
A lot of pet places have extras. These could be baths, extra walks, extra time to play, or extra treats, between other things. Look and see what options are available.
Pack For Fido
Check the kennel requirements for bedding. Some places choose to use their own. Most of the time, this is done to make sure that everything has been cleaned and sanitized properly to stop the spread of fleas, viruses, and other germs.
You may want to add a few comfort items for Fido. A few personal belongings from home, such as a beloved toy or an article of clothing you’ve worn, could make Fido feel much more at ease. Make sure you know exactly what you can and cannot bring.
Relax And Enjoy Your Trip
Once you’ve gone through the checklist, you can start focusing on the other aspects of your trip. Enjoy your time away. Your canine pal is in great hands with us!
In conclusion: A great way to make sure your dog is safe, sound, and looked after while you are gone is to board him. This list is a helpful resource to make sure you have everything you need ready.
Do you need to book boarding at your Nacogdoches, TX dog kennel? Do you need to make a veterinary appointment for your pet? Please feel free to contact us anytime! As your Nacogdoches County pet hotel, we are here to help!
