Leaving your pet in someone else’s care—whether it’s for a weekend getaway or an extended trip—can be stressful. But with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. At Pet Ponderosa, we understand how important it is to feel confident that your dog or cat will be comfortable, safe, and well cared for while you’re away. That’s why we’ve put together this straightforward guide to help you prepare your pet for a smooth, stress-free boarding experience.
Start with the Right Facility
Before anything else, choose a boarding facility that fits your pet’s needs. Look for one that:
- Is clean, secure, and well-staffed
- Offers personalized care for pets with specific needs (e.g., senior pets, anxious pets, medications)
- Provides playtime, interaction, and enrichment
- Is open to tours or detailed questions about their process
At Pet Ponderosa, we welcome questions and offer facility tours because we believe peace of mind starts with trust.
Schedule a Trial Stay (if Possible)
If your pet has never been boarded before—or it’s been a while—a short trial stay can help ease them into the environment. Even a day or overnight stay can make a difference in reducing stress later on, as your pet becomes familiar with the surroundings, staff, and routine.
This is especially helpful for dogs or cats who are shy, anxious, or used to being at home full-time.
Update Vaccinations and Health Records
Most boarding facilities require up-to-date vaccinations to protect all pets in their care. For dogs, this typically includes:
- Rabies
- Distemper/Parvo (DHPP or DA2PP)
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Canine influenza (sometimes recommended)
For cats, expect to show records for:
- Rabies
- FVRCP
- Feline leukemia (FeLV may be required in some cases)
Make sure vaccinations are done at least 7–14 days before your pet’s stay so they have time to take full effect. Bring or send a copy of your records ahead of time to avoid any last-minute delays.
Pack Their Essentials
Bringing a few familiar items can help your pet feel more at ease during their stay. Consider packing:
- Your pet’s regular food: Avoid stomach upset by keeping their diet consistent.
- Treats: A little something familiar goes a long way in comforting your pet.
- Medications with clear instructions: Include dosage, timing, and any special handling needs.
- Bedding or a blanket that smells like home
- Favorite toy or chew item for comfort and entertainment
Label everything, especially food containers and medication, to help the staff stay organized.
Stay Calm During Drop-Off
Pets are sensitive to our emotions. If you’re anxious or emotional during drop-off, your pet might pick up on it and feel unsettled too.
Keep your goodbye short and upbeat. Reassure your pet with a calm tone and let the staff take it from there. Chances are, they’ll settle in much faster than you expect.
Provide Emergency Contact Info
In addition to your own contact information, it’s a good idea to provide the name and number of someone local who can step in if you’re unreachable—just in case.
Also, be clear with the boarding staff about:
- Your preferred veterinarian
- What to do in the event of a medical emergency
- Any special health concerns or quirks your pet may have
Being proactive helps ensure the best possible care, no matter what comes up.
Stick to Routine Where You Can
If your pet has a specific schedule for feeding, medication, or potty breaks, let the boarding staff know. Consistency helps pets feel more secure and reduces the stress of being in a new environment.
At Pet Ponderosa, we work to mirror your pet’s home routine as much as possible so they feel relaxed and cared for during their stay.
Check In (But Don’t Overdo It)
It’s perfectly normal to want updates while your pet is away. Some facilities offer daily texts, photos, or report cards to let you know how your pet is doing.
However, resist the urge to call multiple times a day—your pet is likely adjusting just fine, and too many interruptions can create stress for both staff and pet. Trust the team and focus on enjoying your time away.
Plan a Smooth Return Home
When you pick up your pet, they may be excited, tired, or even a little clingy. Give them time to settle back into their home routine.
Some pets may be extra sleepy from all the stimulation, while others may act overly excited or needy. All of that is normal. Offer them a calm, familiar space and a bit of quiet time to decompress.
Giving Your Pet a Great Boarding Experience
A little preparation can make a big difference in how your pet handles being away from home. By choosing the right facility, maintaining a familiar routine, and packing thoughtfully, you’re setting your pet up for a positive experience.
At Pet Ponderosa, we treat every pet like family—with personalized care, a calm and comfortable environment, and lots of love. If you’re planning an upcoming trip and want to make boarding easy and stress-free, we’re here to help. Contact us today to book a stay or ask questions about how we care for your pets like they’re our own.