Boarding your dog at a kennel for the first time can be a nerve-wracking experience—for both you and your pet. Whether you’re heading out on vacation, a work trip, or dealing with an emergency, it’s important to understand what the boarding process entails. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure your dog stays safe, happy, and well-cared-for while you’re away.
Below, we break down what you can expect when boarding your dog at a kennel, from drop-off to pick-up.
Choosing the Right Kennel
Not all kennels are created equal. Some offer basic accommodations, while others resemble canine resorts, complete with playtime, grooming, and even webcams for pet parents to check in. When selecting a kennel, do your research:
-
Visit the facility in person to assess cleanliness, staff friendliness, and security.
-
Ask questions about staff training, emergency procedures, and vaccination requirements.
-
Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from your veterinarian or fellow pet owners.
A reputable kennel will require up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies, bordetella (kennel cough), and distemper/parvo. This protects all dogs in their care and indicates the facility takes health and safety seriously.
Preparing Your Dog for the Stay
Once you’ve selected a kennel, it’s time to prepare your dog—physically and emotionally. A successful stay starts before you even walk in the door.
-
Vaccinations and paperwork: Ensure all vaccinations are current and provide any necessary documentation. Many kennels also require a signed waiver or emergency contact form.
-
Trial stay: If your dog has never stayed in a kennel before, consider a short trial stay. A day or overnight visit can help them adjust gradually.
-
Pack familiar items: Bring your dog’s regular food, favorite toys, and a blanket or item that smells like home. These comforts can reduce anxiety in a new environment.
-
Stick to routine: Try to keep your dog’s feeding and exercise schedule as consistent as possible in the days leading up to the stay.
The goal is to reduce the stress of separation and help your dog feel as at-ease as possible during their time at the kennel.
What Happens During the Stay
While every kennel operates differently, there are common routines and services that most provide to ensure your dog is well cared for.
-
Daily schedule: Dogs are usually fed on a regular schedule, walked or exercised multiple times per day, and given time to rest in their own space.
-
Socialization opportunities: Some kennels offer group playtimes for dogs that are social and well-behaved, while others stick to individual care. Be honest about your dog’s temperament so they’re placed in the appropriate setting.
-
Health and monitoring: Staff will monitor your dog’s eating habits, bathroom behavior, and general mood. If any issues arise, most facilities will contact you or your designated emergency contact.
-
Optional services: Depending on the kennel, you may be able to add grooming, training, or webcam access for an additional fee.
Good kennels work to provide a safe, structured, and even fun environment, helping reduce the anxiety that often comes with being away from home.
Picking Up and Post-Kennel Behavior
When it’s time to pick up your dog, don’t be surprised if they act a little different at first. Some dogs may be overexcited, while others may seem a bit subdued.
-
Re-entry period: After a boarding stay, dogs may need a day or two to re-adjust to home life. It’s not uncommon for them to sleep more than usual or show changes in appetite. This usually resolves quickly.
-
Watch for signs of illness: Although rare in reputable kennels, keep an eye out for coughing, vomiting, or diarrhea, which could signal a minor illness. Contact your vet if symptoms persist.
-
Positive reinforcement: Give your dog plenty of affection and reassurance, and ease them back into their normal routine.
Also, take note of how the overall experience went. If your dog comes home happy and healthy, you’ve likely found a good match. If there were issues, it might be worth exploring a different facility or considering alternative options like in-home pet sitting.
In Summary: Boarding your dog at a kennel can be a safe and positive experience if you take the time to prepare properly. By choosing the right facility, preparing your dog, understanding what happens during the stay, and being ready for the return home, you can make the process smoother for everyone involved. Your peace of mind—and your dog’s comfort—are worth the effort.
