How to plan for the first dog board

Preparing Your Dog for Their First Boarding Experience

Boarding your dog for the first time can be an emotional experience for both you and your furry friend. Proper preparation, thorough research, and understanding the benefits of consistent dog daycare can help make the transition smooth and stress-free. Here’s how to ensure your dog has a positive experience while you’re away.

I am the owner of a pet boarding and daycare facility since 2007, caring for 25-75 dogs each day. I have seen it all when it comes to dogs and their owners and I want to share my knowledge and experience with other dog lovers. 

As an Amazon Associate and Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases without any additional cost to you.

Here is a list of some the most popular items that clients like to bring with their dogs when boarding at Dogstown University.

Consult your vet for more information or before introducing new food or supplements into your dog’s diet. Check out more articles at: Dogstown University Blog  

---

1. The Benefits of Consistent Dog Daycare

If this is your dog’s first time boarding, enrolling them in a dog daycare program beforehand can make the experience much easier. Regular daycare helps dogs:

• Socialize: They get accustomed to being around other dogs and people, reducing anxiety in new environments.
• Burn Energy: Active dogs are less likely to experience stress-related behaviors, such as chewing or barking.
• Establish Routine: The structured schedule of feeding, playtime, and rest prepares them for the similar routine at a boarding facility.

By introducing your dog to daycare, you build their confidence and help them adjust to spending time away from home.

---

2. Researching Boarding Facilities

Not all boarding facilities are created equal, so take time to explore your options. Start by identifying local facilities that cater to your dog’s specific needs, and focus on these key aspects:

a. Cleanliness and Safety

• Are the kennels clean and spacious?
• Are the play areas free of hazards?
• Is the facility temperature-controlled for comfort?

b. Staff Expertise

• Are staff members trained in canine behavior and first aid?
• How do they handle emergencies?

c. Services Offered

• Are daily walks, playtime, or one-on-one attention included in the boarding package?
• Do they offer extra amenities like grooming or training during the stay?

---

3. Check Reviews and Ratings

Before making a decision, read online reviews and ask for recommendations. Look for:

• Consistency in Positive Feedback: Are customers repeatedly praising cleanliness, staff attentiveness, and their dog’s happiness?
• Response to Criticism: How does the facility address any negative feedback? Professionalism in handling concerns is a good sign.

Don’t hesitate to visit the facility in person. Seeing it firsthand will give you confidence in its quality and suitability for your dog.

---

4. Key Questions to Ask

When narrowing down your options, ask the facility the following questions:

• Overnight Supervision: Does someone stay onsite overnight to monitor the dogs? This is crucial for peace of mind in case of emergencies.
• Live Feed Cameras: Can you watch your dog via a live camera system? This feature allows you to check in on your pet and see how they’re adjusting.
• Emergency Protocols: How do they handle medical emergencies? Do they partner with a nearby veterinary clinic?

---

5. Preparing Your Dog for Boarding

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your dog feels comfortable and secure:

• Pack Familiar Items: Bring their favorite blanket, toy, or even an unwashed shirt with your scent to comfort them.
• Trial Run: Book a single night stay or a daycare visit before an extended boarding period to help them acclimate.
• Maintain Routine: Keep feeding and exercise schedules consistent in the days leading up to their stay.

---

6. The Benefits of a Reliable Facility

Choosing a trustworthy boarding facility gives you peace of mind knowing your dog is in good hands. Facilities with overnight human supervision and live feed cameras ensure your pet is safe, secure, and monitored at all times. These features, combined with attentive staff and structured activities, create a positive experience that feels like a home away from home.

---

By carefully researching and preparing, you’ll help your dog adapt to boarding and even enjoy their time away. A well-chosen facility can become a trusted resource, providing your dog with care, companionship, and enrichment while you’re apart.