The holidays are a time for joy and travel, but for pet owners, they can also bring the stress of finding reliable care for their furry family members. If you're planning to board your pet this holiday season, a little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a smooth, happy experience for everyone.
1. Vaccinations: Call Ahead and Be Prepared
This is perhaps the most crucial step. Before you even book, call your chosen boarding facility and inquire about their specific vaccination requirements.
Most facilities require up-to-date vaccinations for common illnesses, including:
- Rabies: This is a legal requirement.
- Distemper/Parvo (DHPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats): These protect against highly contagious and serious diseases.
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Often required for dogs, as it's highly contagious in communal settings.
- Canine Influenza (CIV ) aka The Canine Flu: Some facilities are starting to require this, especially in areas with outbreaks.
Make sure your pet's vaccinations are administered well in advance of their boarding stay.. You'll want to print extra copies of your pet's vaccination records and their Rabies certificate to leave with the facility.
2. Food & Medications: Portion Control and Clear Instructions
Consistency is key to preventing upset stomachs and stress.
- Portion Out Meals: Prepare enough food for your pet's entire stay, plus a little extra, and separate it into individual bags for each meal. Label each bag clearly (e.g., "Monday Breakfast," "Monday Dinner"). This ensures your pet receives the correct amount of food at each feeding.
- Medications: Clearly Labeled and Organized: If your pet takes any medications, prepare and label them meticulously with the day, time, and dose. Provide detailed written instructions and discuss them thoroughly with the boarding staff. It can also be helpful to write down any potential side effects to watch for.
3. Emergency Contacts & Vet Information
In case of an emergency, the boarding facility needs to be able to reach you or someone you trust, and have access to your pet's medical history.
- Full-Service Vet Information: Provide the phone number of your pet's regular, full-service veterinarian.
- Emergency Contacts: List any emergency contacts who can make decisions on your behalf if you're unreachable.
4. Introduce Your Pet: A Short Bio for Caretakers
Help the caretakers get to know your pet beyond their basic needs.
Write a short bio for your pup (or cat!) that includes:
- Their personality (e.g., "loves belly rubs," "a bit shy at first").
- Any quirks or habits (e.g., "gets zoomies after dinner," "prefers quiet mornings").
- What motivates them (e.g., "treat motivated," "loves squeaky toys").
- How they interact with other animals or people (if applicable).
- Any anxieties or fears (e.g., "scared of thunder," "doesn't like loud noises").
This personal touch helps the staff understand your pet's individual needs and ensures they receive the best possible care and attention.
5. Pack Comforts (Wisely)
While you might want to pack their entire toy box, most facilities have guidelines on what you can bring.
A familiar scent can be comforting, so consider:
- One or two favorite, durable toys: Avoid anything too small or easily destructible.
- A small blanket or an old t-shirt with your scent: This can provide a sense of security.
By following this checklist, you can head off on your holiday travels with peace of mind, knowing your beloved pet is well-prepared for a safe and comfortable stay.
Happy Howlidays!!!