Whether you are boarding your dog for the day or for multiple days due to travel or for other reasons, you want to keep your pet as safe and comfortable as possible.  Taking your dog to a boarding facility can be stressful because you not only want to keep your dog calm but you also need to pack certain items for them.  It is always a good idea to ask your dog boarding facility what they recommend bringing for your dog to give your dog the best time possible while at a boarding facility.  Below are 5 things you should pack your dog to give both you and your dog a happy, stress-free time away from each other.

5 Things to Pack for Your Dog When Boarding

1. Comfort Items
   • When your dog is away from home, it can be comforting to them to have a familiar item or two. Does your dog have a favorite toy or other item they love to play with?  Pack it for them!  If you think your dog may miss you while you are gone it is a good idea to pack a t-shirt, pillowcase, or blanket that smells like you because your scent will provide them comfort.
2. Bed/Blanket
   • If your dog is staying overnight, it is often a good idea to pack a bed or blanket for them. It is always more calming or comfortable to sleep on something that is familiar to you and the same goes for your dog.  Give your dog the best sleep possible and pack something cozy and familiar for them to sleep on.
3. Food & Treats
   • Your dog is probably used to eating certain foods and treats. Even if your boarding facility provides food or treats, it is probably better for you to pack your own so that you can avoid the risk of your dog getting an upset stomach from unfamiliar food.
4. Medicine and/or Supplements
   • If your dog consistently takes any medication, vitamins, or supplements, bring them with you to the boarding facility. Make sure they are well labeled with instructions for dosage to ensure your dog’s safety.
5. Documents
   • Most dog boarding facilities will require you to fill out paperwork and also supply certain documents in order to take your dog at their facility. Common documents that facilities often ask for include things like medical records, vaccination records, emergency contact information, and any other documentation that may be pertinent.

When you are preparing to board your dog and searching for just the right boarding facility, it can be difficult to discern which facility is best for your dog.  There are many great and safe facilities out there but, unfortunately, there are also some facilities that are not the best or are downright dangerous.  It is important to do your research, ask questions, and take a tour of the facility before you board your dog.  Happy Dog Inn is a dog boarding facility in Scottsdale, AZ specifically designed for dog boarding and dog daycare and it is our mission to provide dogs with a safe, stress-free, and fun environment and customers a place that offers peace of mind that their dog is being well-cared for at all times.

Determining the best dog boarding facility for your unique needs typically begins by asking questions before visiting the facility.  First, ask the facility about their bonding, insurance and licensing.  If they are truly a quality boarding facility, they will be bonded and insured for both their protection and yours.  It is also a good idea to ask for any certifications or licenses that are state required to ensure that they are up to date on everything.  And, when you do visit the facility, it never hurts to ask to actually see documentation, particularly if you have any reservations at all.  Further, ask who is at the facility and if someone is there at all times.  Also, ask about what type of outside area the dogs will have access to for recreation and to relieve themselves.  And don’t forget to ask how much exercise time each dog gets and if they are allowed off leash?  Finally, don’t forget to ask what qualifications and training the staff has for caring for your dog.  If your dog has any special needs or requirements, be sure to ask if they are capable of accommodating them.

Once your questions have been answered it is important to visit and tour the facility.  People can make a place sound great, and they can make a front office look good and clean, but you should ask to take a complete tour of the facility before you leave your dog.  Does the facility look clean?  While you are taking your tour you should ask how often the areas are disinfected.  Look inside the kennels to see if they look clean, safe and large enough for the dog they are accommodating.  Look to see if staff is interacting with the dogs in a positive and friendly manner.   A walk through the dog facility will help provide you peace of mind that the dog boarding facility you choose will be safe for your dog.  Finally, if you smell any bad odors, see dogs that are restless or pacing, facilities that look dangerous, dogs in too small of kennels, or the facility will not provide you with a tour, these warning signs should send you running in the other direction.  By asking the right questions and taking a tour of the facility, you can find a dog boarding facility that both you and your dog will love.