How to Prepare Your Dog for a Stay in a Kennel

In this new year, you could be planning a lovely holiday abroad, but the thought of leaving your pet might make you feel uneasy and guilty. Or perhaps you’re arranging for a necessary business trip, and at the last minute, you’re not able to find any dog sitter. Most dog owners would have probably gone through these situations. At this time, dog-boarding kennels would generally be an ideal option. Considering this option, choosing the right boarding kennel is not just about convenience, but also crucial for ensuring your dog’s comfort and well-being. 

Proper preparation can significantly reduce stress, not just for your dogs, but also for you, the owner. By taking the time to select the right facility and preparing your dog for the experience, you can enjoy your time away knowing that your pet is in good hands.

Things to Consider Before Boarding Your Dog

Before you book a stay at the boarding kennel, it’s essential to ensure that your dog’s vaccinations and medication are up to date. Here are a few vaccinations and medicines advised to before boarding the kennel.

Check if Your Dog is up-to-date on Their Vaccinations

One of the first steps in preparing your dog for a stay at a boarding kennel is to ensure they are fully vaccinated. Boarding facilities often house many pets at once, and in such a communal setting, the risk of disease transmission is higher.

Required Vaccinations for Boarding

Most kennels will require proof of vaccination against several diseases. Here are the vaccines typically required:

• DAPP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus): This combination vaccine protects against several serious diseases and is fundamental for canine health.
• Rabies: Required by law in many places, this vaccine is essential for preventing the spread of rabies.
• Leptospirosis: This vaccine protects against a bacterial infection that can affect both animals and humans, often found in water or moist environments.
• Bordetella (Canine Kennel Cough): Highly recommended for dogs staying in kennels as it protects against a common respiratory disease.
• Canine Influenza Virus (Dog Flu): Protects against the dog flu, which can spread rapidly in a kennel environment.

Make sure that all vaccinations are administered well in advance. Some vaccines need to be given weeks before the date of boarding to ensure full effectiveness, so it’s advised to plan it accordingly.

Make Sure Your Dog is on Parasite Prevention Medicine

Another critical aspect of preparing your dog for boarding is ensuring they are protected against parasites. This includes fleas, ticks, and worms, which can not only affect your dog but also pose a risk to other pets at the facility. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Flea and Tick Prevention

These flea and tick parasites are not only a nuisance but can also transmit diseases. A good kennel will require proof that your dog is on preventative treatment.

• Heartworm and Intestinal Worm Prevention

These internal parasites can be detrimental to your dog’s health. Year-round prevention is crucial, especially in communal living situations.

Steps to Preparing Your Pet for Boarding Kennels

Preparing your dog for a stay at a boarding kennel is crucial to ensuring they are as comfortable and stress-free as possible during your time apart. Here, we’ll go through some practical steps that can significantly help in reducing their separation anxiety and enhancing their comfort at the kennel. Let’s dive into the preparation process that will make the boarding experience a positive one for your furry friend.

Take a Tour of the Kennel First with Your Dog

One of the most effective ways to prepare your dog for boarding is to start with a familiarisation tour of the facility. This visit allows your dog to explore the new environment while still having the comfort of your presence. Look for kennels that welcome pre-stay visits and use this opportunity to observe how your dog reacts to the new surroundings and the kennel staff. A familiar environment will make it easier for your dog to adjust when they stay without you.

Arrange a Day-stay

Before committing to a longer boarding period, consider arranging a day stay or a short trial period at the kennel. This can be an excellent way for your dog to experience staying at the kennels without the initial long separation. It also allows you to see how they adapt to being away from home and how well the kennel staff interact with your pet. These visits can be crucial in reducing future separation anxiety and ensuring that your dog will be comfortable during their actual stay.

Talk to Staff About Your Pet’s Needs

Make sure the kennel staff are aware of any specific needs your dog might have, such as special dietary requirements, medications, or behavioural issues. Prepare a detailed information sheet that includes your dog’s routine, likes, dislikes, and any fears or triggers. This will help the kennel staff provide the best possible care tailored to your pet’s needs, ensuring they feel at home even in your absence.

Bring Familiar Blankets and Toys

Bringing along some home comforts can make a big difference in how quickly your dog settles into the kennel. Pack their favourite blanket, a well-loved toy, or even an item of your clothing that smells like home. These familiar scents can provide great comfort to your dog and help soothe any separation anxiety they might feel. Just be prepared for these items to potentially come back a bit worse for wear, so choose wisely what you decide to send along.

Spend Some Extra Time with Your Pet Before You Go

The days leading up to your departure are an important time to bond with your dog and reassure them with extra affection. Increase your walks, playtime, or just cuddle more. This quality time helps to reassure your pet that they are loved and can help mitigate feelings of abandonment once you leave them at the dog hotel.

Prepare Your Emergency Contact Information

Lastly, it’s essential to prepare and leave detailed emergency contact information with the boarding kennel. Include your mobile number, an alternative contact, and details of your dog’s veterinary practice. Ensuring you’re easily contactable in an emergency will give you peace of mind while you’re away, and it’s also a good idea to discuss and approve any potential emergency procedures with the kennel beforehand.

Visit Our Dog Kennels at Hunters Lodge

At Hunters Lodge, we pride ourselves on offering premium dog boarding services in luxurious accommodations designed to meet the needs of each individual guest. Our dog kennels are set apart by our commitment to providing personal attention and tailored care plans for all our furry guests. Whether it’s a standard stay or more bespoke services like our VIP dog rooms, we ensure every dog is treated like royalty.

Beyond standard dog kennel services, Hunters Lodge offers a range of options to cater to the diverse needs of our clients, including doggy daycare and cattery services. Whether your pet enjoys mingling with others or prefers a quiet space all to themselves, we have something to suit every personality. Our services are designed to ensure that every pet, no matter how long they stay with us, feels at home.

Ready to give your dog a holiday as enjoyable as yours? Visit our website or call us directly at 01604870330 to learn more about our services or to schedule a tour of Hunters Lodge. We invite you to come and see first-hand why we are the preferred choice for dog boarding in the region.