Preparing Your Puppy for Their First Boarding Experience

Boarding your puppy for the first time can be a bit stressful for both you and your pup. But with some preparation and a few tips, you can ensure your puppy has a great time while you’re away. This guide will help you get your puppy ready for their first stay at a boarding kennel.

Is Your Puppy Ready for Boarding?

It’s important to know if your puppy is ready to be boarded. Here are a few steps you can take to make sure:

Keep Vaccinations Up-to-Date

Make sure your puppy has all the required vaccines. Most boarding facilities need the bordetella vaccine, as well as distemper and parvovirus vaccines. Rabies shots might also be needed. Having these records will help the kennel staff feel confident about your puppy’s health.

Try Daycare First

Many boarding kennels offer daycare services. Let your puppy spend a few hours there before their overnight stay. This helps them get used to the new environment and make new friends.

Practice Sleepovers

If possible, have your puppy spend a night with a friend or family member. This will give you an idea of how they’ll handle being away from you.

Socialize Your Puppy

Take your puppy to dog parks and arrange playdates. Meeting other dogs and people will help them feel more comfortable in a new place.

Crate Training

Ensure your puppy is crate trained. This way, they’ll see their kennel as a safe and cozy space when they need some quiet time.

Choosing the Right Boarding Facility

Finding a good boarding kennel is key to your puppy’s happiness. Here are some tips to help you choose the best place:

Tour the Facilities

Visit a few kennels in your area. Check for cleanliness, friendly staff, and safe play areas.

Ask for a Trial Stay

Some kennels offer a short trial stay. This helps you and your puppy see if the kennel is a good fit.

Read Reviews

Look at online reviews to see what other pet owners say about the kennels you’re considering.

Ensure Play and Exercise

Make sure the kennel has plenty of indoor and outdoor play spaces. Let the staff know about your puppy’s energy levels to ensure they get enough exercise.

What Information to Provide

To make sure the kennel can take good care of your puppy, provide the following:

  • Vaccination records
  • Spay/neuter records
  • Microchip number
  • Your vet’s contact info
  • Emergency contact info
  • Feeding schedule and dietary needs
  • Medication info, if needed
  • Favorite toys or blankets
  • Personality traits and quirks
  • Note if your puppy is crate trained
  • Activity preferences

Also, make sure the kennel knows how to contact you while you’re away.

Preparing Your Puppy for Boarding

Here are some tips to help your puppy have a stress-free boarding experience:

Car Rides

Get your puppy used to car rides so the trip to the kennel isn’t scary.

Visit the Kennel

Bring your puppy to the kennel a few times before their stay. This makes the place feel more familiar.

Meet the Staff

Let your puppy meet the kennel staff during trial visits. This helps reduce separation anxiety.

Pack Familiar Items

Pack your puppy’s favorite toys, treats, and even an unwashed t-shirt of yours to help them feel at home.

Stick to Their Routine

Keep their feeding, walking, and playtime schedule as normal as possible.

Extra Love Before Drop Off

Spend extra time with your puppy before leaving. Give them lots of love and attention.

Quick Goodbyes

Keep your drop-off short and sweet to avoid making your puppy anxious.

Ask for Updates

Many kennels will send photos or updates. This helps you know your puppy is doing well.

Touring a Boarding Facility

When you visit a kennel, here are some important things to check:

  • Cleanliness: The facility should be clean and odor-free.
  • Space: Make sure the boarding spaces are comfortable for your puppy.
  • Outdoor Time: Ensure dogs get regular outdoor play and potty breaks.
  • Friendly Staff: The staff should be kind and passionate about dogs.
  • Playgroups: Check how they group dogs for playtime.
  • Outdoor Space: There should be plenty of space for fresh air and play.
  • Mealtime Procedures: Make sure they follow your feeding instructions.
  • Medication: Staff should know how to give any needed medications.
  • Handling Anxiety: Ask how they handle anxious dogs.
  • Updates: Find out how they keep you informed about your puppy.
  • Facility Tour: See all the areas where your puppy will stay.
  • Veterinary Relationship: They should have a vet on call.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Boarding Stay

Here are some extra tips to make your puppy’s first boarding stay go smoothly:

  • Book Early: Popular kennels fill up fast, especially during holidays.
  • Vaccines: Make sure your puppy has all the required shots.
  • Familiarize: Let your puppy visit the kennel before their stay.
  • Label Belongings: Label your puppy’s food, toys, and meds to avoid mix-ups.
  • Contact Info: Provide all your contact details and emergency contacts.
  • Same Food: Pack your puppy’s usual food to prevent tummy issues.
  • Extra Snuggles: Give your puppy lots of love before you leave.
  • Contact Card: Keep the kennel’s contact details handy.
  • Personality Details: Share your puppy’s behavior traits with the staff.
  • Photo Updates: Request photo updates for peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Leaving your puppy for the first time can be tough, but with the right preparation, it can be a positive experience. Choose a good kennel, provide all the necessary information, and make your puppy feel at home. This way, both you and your puppy can enjoy your time apart. Don’t forget to give them some extra hugs and kisses before you go!