Preparing your dog for a boarding kennel

Boarding your dog or cat at a kennel whilst you go away can seem daunting.  But a little preparation for a boarding kennel stay can help keep reduce any unnecessary stress on you and your dog or cat.

Pet Resorts Australia offers dog and cat boarding across Australia, and can help make the process a little.

1. Visit the kennel first with your dog

If your dog hasn’t boarded before it’s important to visit the kennel first and ideally book them in for a short stay to help familiarise them with the new surroundings

Some kennels, like Pet Resorts Australia, offer doggy day care as well, and encourage you to take your dog in for doggy day care first before you leave them for a longer stay. That way staff can assess the temperament and any special needs of your dog.

Let them know of any unusual habits or fears that your dog or cat may have, especially if your dog is anxious or  aggressive with strangers or to other dogs, so the staff can handle them a little more cautiously.

2. Choose the right accommodation package to suit your dog or cat’s needs

Most kennels have different accommodation and care options for you to choose from.

At Pet Resorts Australia for example, they offer a range of different accommodation types, including luxurious private suites.  Their state-of-the-art facilities in Dural, Terrigal, Townsville, Samford, Eumundi-Noosa, Ingleside, and Southern Highlands are designed to provide the ultimate in comfort and care for your dog.

If your dog or cat is prone to anxiety, has health issues or is used to a lot of TLC at home, then you should opt for the options and any additional extras that will help your dog cope better whilst away from you.

There is also often share accommodation for family pets or for those that simply enjoy the company of another dog.

Some dogs also like the comfort of their own bed or toys, so you can bring them with you even if they are provided.

3. Elderly dogs

If you have an elderly dog that has never stayed in a kennel before I would recommend that you find a pet sitter that can have them in their own home, or stay in your home to help keep their routine and avoid any added stress whilst you are away.   There are many local business that offer this service and also some great websites that list people who are willing to take your dog into their home.

4. Health

Prior to their stay make sure that your vaccinations are current and in line with their requirements, and that  flea & worming treatment is also up to date. You will need to show proof when you check in, as it’s a requirement of a kennel’s boarding licence.

If your dog is on medication, it’s important to supply it in a clearly labelled container and provide detailed instructions when you book in.

5. Food

Some kennels provide the food as part of the package.  However, you should check as to what type of food they will be fed to ensure your dog does not suffer from any tummy issues through a change of diet.

If they are fussy or have a sensitive stomach, or are on a vet recommended diet, raw diet or a diet that differs significantly to what the kennel supplies (ie: if the kennel supplies only dry, but you feed your dog a wet or raw food diet only) then supply your own as you do not want your dog to start vomiting or get diarrhoea as a result.

6. Exercise

Check with the kennel as to what exercise is included in a standard stay, especially if your dog is young and active, or requires a lot of exercise.

At Pet Resorts Australia dog hotels and resorts, they offer engaging activities, gourmet dining, and ample socialisation opportunities. Their dog hotels are designed to provide a stimulating and joyful environment for your pet.

Not all kennels or pet hotels include a walk or play time in their packages so you definitely need to check all of this out first to ensure your dog can remain healthy and happy.

7. Dog obedience options

Some kennels, like Pet Resorts Australia do,  offer dog training and obedience classes or one on one training as part of their services.

Training at Pet Resorts Australia is provided by their training partner, Canine Evolution, and you can book in some one on one training with a professional dog trainer to help with any obedience issues you might be having.

8. Before you leave them

If your dog is a worrier, then it may be worth dropping them at the kennel before you start to pack for your holiday. Remember they’re constantly watching us and can feel anxious when the suitcases start to come out.

Try not to be too emotional when leaving your fur baby as they’ll pick up on it. It’s best to hand the lead to the kennel staff and quietly slip away.

Always raise any concerns you might have with kennel staff so they can help make the stay as stress free as possible for both you and your pet.

Learn more about Pet Resorts Australia, or book your visit HERE.

About the Author: Lara Shannon is a certified dog behaviourist and trainer, pet food nutrition specialist, Executive Producer and Host of Pooches at Play on Channel 10 and editor of Poochesatplay.com. Lara also runs her own dog training business in Melbourne’s Bayside area and is the Author of World of Dogs and Eat, Play, Love Your Dog