Pet Boarding: What You Need to Know Before Booking

When you have pets, it can be difficult to plan and book a trip, but the most significant planning issue for many pet owners is what to do with them. Consider hiring a professional pet boarding care service if you do not have a ready supply of willing and able friends and family members eager to pet-sit.

Considerations When Boarding Your Pet

To begin, you must fully understand what your pet will receive at the boarding kennel and what they need to bring. The quality of a boarding facility is critical, but so are the costs. Some pet boarding places require that your pet be spayed or neutered. If you are going on a trip soon and your pet still needs to do it. You should visit a veterinary clinic that provides spay and neuter services.

Learn about their policies and procedures.

Learn about the daily and nightly rates and whether they include individualized care, walks, bathing, and medication administration. Is it necessary to pay when you pick up your pet, and if so, in what form? When must you check out, and how much will you be charged if you are late? And what about cancellations? Some establishments charge late cancellation fees, which makes sense if they have already turned away other reservations.

Inform them of your care conditions.

Some animals adjust well to PetVax boarding, while others may miss their owners. By asking the right questions, you can put your mind at ease. Many catteries or boarding kennels will notify you if there are any problems, but not all will. Make it clear to anyone caring for your pet what you expect from them in terms of care and communication while you are gone.

Start with a brief overnight stay.

Consider a brief stay first if your pet has never been boarded before. A simple pet daycare afternoon could be a good test. This will put your pet at ease and assist the caregiver in understanding your pet’s needs. It will also allow you to discover how your pet behaves when you pick them up. Is your dog almost ready to leave? Happy but exhausted? Request a detailed verbal report from the caretaker on how your dog reacted to the new environment.

Bring the necessities for your pets.

When you drop off your pet, bring their food, health and veterinary records, bed, and favorite toys in your will, including emergency contact and current contact information. When you leave, be upbeat and optimistic. Saying goodbye should be brief and to the point.

Don’t give anything after picking it up.

Give your pet no water or food for at least four hours after picking it up from the boarding kennel or pet sitter’s home. They may gulp food, vomit, or have diarrhea due to their excitement. If they appear thirsty, offer some ice cubes instead of water. Allow your dog to rest and sleep after that.

Trusting someone you do not know to care for your dog is frequently the most challenging aspect of traveling. Finding a boarding facility you can trust and that your dog will enjoy will make a world of difference in the long run. And if you’re interested in vet wellness plans, you can always ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Conclusion

Check the cleanliness and size of the restrooms. If they do not let you tour their facilities, you should cross a pet boarding facility off your list. Choose a company only if you are confident in keeping your pet clean and well-cared for.