Tips for a Stress-Free Pet Vacation
Whether you are heading out for a week-long summer vacation, a quick weekend getaway, or traveling for business, leaving your pet behind is often the hardest part of the trip. As pet parents, we naturally worry about how our dogs and cats will fare without us. Will they be anxious? Will they eat? Will they make friends? At Charlotte Kennels, we understand these concerns completely. We strive to make our facility a home away from home for your furry family members. However, a successful boarding experience begins long before you drop your pet off. Here is a comprehensive guide to preparing your pet for a stress-free boarding stay.
Start with a Trial Run If your dog or cat has never been boarded before, diving straight into a two-week stay can be overwhelming. Animals thrive on routine, and sudden changes in their environment can trigger anxiety. To help them adjust, we highly recommend scheduling a trial run.
For dogs, setting up a few days of doggy daycare before their boarding stay is an excellent strategy. It allows them to become familiar with the sights, smells, and sounds of Charlotte Kennels. They will get to know our staff, make some canine friends, and most importantly, they will learn that when you leave them here, you always come back to pick them up. For cats or dogs who don’t do daycare, an overnight “staycation” for a single night is a great way to introduce them to the boarding routine.
Update Vaccinations and Preventatives The health and safety of every pet at Charlotte Kennels is our absolute top priority. Because boarding facilities house many animals in close proximity, highly contagious illnesses can spread quickly if preventative measures aren’t taken.
Well before your drop-off date, check your pet’s veterinary records. Dogs typically require up-to-date vaccinations for Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus), and Bordetella (Kennel Cough). Cats generally need Rabies and FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia). Additionally, ensure your pet is up to date on their flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives. Don’t leave this until the last minute, as some vaccines require a few days to take full effect!
Packing the Perfect Pet Suitcase Bringing a little piece of home can make a massive difference in your pet’s comfort level. While Charlotte Kennels provides cozy bedding and bowls, we encourage you to pack a few personal items.
Bring your pet’s regular food in pre-measured, individual baggies. Switching a pet’s diet abruptly can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, which is the last thing they need while adjusting to a new environment. You should also pack a comforting item that smells like you—an unwashed t-shirt you’ve worn recently or their favorite small blanket is perfect. The familiar scent of their family will soothe them at night. Also, feel free to pack a couple of their favorite toys or chew items to keep them entertained during downtime.
Keep Goodbyes Brief and Cheerful Pets are incredibly intuitive creatures; they act as emotional sponges, soaking up the energy you project. If you are anxious, tearful, and lingering during drop-off, your pet will immediately assume there is something to be afraid of.
When you arrive at Charlotte Kennels, keep your energy light, positive, and confident. Hand off the leash or carrier to our staff with a cheerful “See you soon!” and head out the door. The quicker and more upbeat the goodbye, the faster your pet will settle into their new routine. Rest assured, our experienced, compassionate staff will take over from there, ensuring your pet gets the love, attention, and playtime they need while you enjoy a worry-free trip!