Here are some important tips for pet boarding. Maybe you’ve tried boarding with your pet before, but it wasn’t a positive experience. Fortunately, with the proper planning, boarding your pet does not have to be as stressful as you would think. In truth, many pets enjoy their furry vacation, allowing you to rest and travel while they are in boarding.
Here are five important recommendations for pet boarding to help you get organized and make the process as simple as possible.
1. Select a boarding facility for your pet with caution
Many owners believe that choosing a boarding facility that is closest to their home is the simplest option. However, just because something is close by does not mean it is the best option for your pet. The sorts of accommodations and services available at boarding facilities might vary greatly. Make sure you find one that can provide your pet with the care and attention they deserve. First and foremost, ask around for suggestions.
You may have friends or family members who have used boarding and can recommend it. However, this does not guarantee that it is the best facility for your pet. You should visit and ask plenty of questions about where he will stay, what he will do while there, and what else they have to offer. Check out internet reviews and make sure to visit each facility you’ve shortlisted in person. This will assist you in making an informed decision on where your pet should be cared for while you are away.
2. Don’t make any dietary changes to your pet’s diet
Many owners who haven’t boarded their pet before fear that their pet will have to consume whatever food is given by the facility they choose. This is not the case, however. Veterinarians suggest keeping your pet on the same diet as normal to avoid disturbing their stomach. Therefore, if the facility you choose cannot give the same brand of food that they regularly eat, make sure that you can supply your own!
3. Complete all paperwork prior to dropping off your pet
Much like putting a human child in the care of someone else, there will be a lot of documentation you will need to complete before your pet may board. This will contain details regarding their health and any medications they need, as well as their food preferences and general demeanor. Make a note of your emergency contact information so that you may be notified in the event of an emergency, as well as any other information about your pet that may be useful.
4. Prior to boarding, make sure your pet’s preventative care is in order
Most boarding houses will have a set of requirements that must be satisfied before your pet is allowed to remain. The majority of the time, this is about their preventative care. So that they can limit the risk of sickness in a situation where there are a number of animals in close quarters with one another, most boarding facilities request that owners produce documentation of their pet being up to date with their immunizations and parasite prevention. Your pet may not be allowed to board if you don’t have these. Ensure that they are as healthy as they can be, is up to date with preventative treatment, and is free from fleas, ticks, and worms before booking them in for boarding.
5. Don’t get emotional if you have to leave your pet in a boarding facility
When leaving their pets at a boarding facility, the most common beginner mistake is to make a big fuss. Spike, on the other hand, will know that something major is about to happen if you lavish him with affection. This will quickly agitate him, making it much more difficult for him to settle into his temporary lodging. Instead, attempt to express the same level of feeling as if you were simply leaving him for a few hours, like when you go to the store or the gym. This will help him remember that you are returning, and he will be able to relax much more quickly as a result. He’ll be engrossed in the enjoyable activities offered by the boarding facility by the time he learns you won’t be back right away.
To speak with us or book a visit to our boarding facilities, call Charlotte Kennels at 704-821-1318 today.