Planning a trip is exciting—but when your dog or cat isn’t coming with you, making sure they’re well taken care of is just as important as packing your bags. Boarding your pet can be a stress-free solution if you’re well-prepared. At Pet Ponderosa, we’ve helped hundreds of pet owners confidently leave their pets in safe, loving hands. With a little preparation, you can make boarding easier on your furry companion and easier on yourself.
Here’s what you need to know to get your pet ready for a successful stay.
Start with the Right Boarding Facility
Not all boarding facilities are the same. Some focus more on high-energy play, while others specialize in quiet, individualized care. Start by choosing a facility that matches your pet’s personality, health needs, and energy level.
Look for a boarding provider that offers:
- Clean, secure housing
- Experienced staff who love animals
- Up-to-date vaccination requirements
- Structured routines for feeding, exercise, and rest
- Personalized care for pets with special diets or medications
At Pet Ponderosa, we tailor care to your pet’s specific needs—whether they’re active and social or prefer calm and quiet.
Schedule a Pre-Visit or Trial Stay
If this is your pet’s first time boarding, or if they tend to get anxious in new environments, a short trial visit can help. A half-day or overnight stay lets your dog or cat get familiar with the sights, smells, and sounds of the facility before a longer visit.
It also gives the staff a chance to learn your pet’s personality and preferences ahead of time.
Make Sure Vaccinations Are Current
Before any boarding stay, your pet must be up to date on vaccinations to protect them—and others—from contagious illnesses. Most facilities require:
For dogs:
- Rabies
- Distemper/Parvo (DHPP or DA2PP)
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Canine influenza (often recommended)
For cats:
- Rabies
- FVRCP
- Feline leukemia (may be required for social environments)
Bring or email copies of your pet’s vaccination records at least a week before their stay. If anything is out of date, schedule a quick vet visit well ahead of time.
Pack Familiar Items
A few items from home can go a long way in helping your pet feel more at ease.
Pack the following:
- Their usual food (with feeding instructions)
- Treats (optional, but comforting)
- Any medications with clear dosage instructions
- A favorite blanket, toy, or item with your scent
- Labeled containers and written care notes
Familiar smells and routines help pets adjust more easily to a new environment.
Stick to a Routine Before Drop-Off
In the days leading up to boarding, try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible—same feeding times, regular walks, and normal sleep schedules. Sudden changes can create anxiety or confusion, especially in sensitive animals.
Avoid overfeeding, giving new treats, or changing up routines right before their stay. Stability helps pets feel more secure.
Keep Goodbyes Short and Calm
When it’s time to drop off your pet, stay relaxed. Pets pick up on your emotions, and if you’re nervous or overly emotional, they may become anxious too.
A quick goodbye with a calm voice reassures your pet that everything is okay. Trust the boarding staff to take it from there. Most pets settle in quickly once their humans leave.
Stay in Touch (Within Reason)
Some boarding facilities offer updates via text, email, or social media. A quick message or photo can give you peace of mind during your trip.
However, try not to over-check or worry too much. If you’ve chosen a trustworthy facility and prepared well, your pet is likely doing just fine.
Plan for a Smooth Transition Home
After a boarding stay, your pet might be tired or overexcited. They’ve had a lot of stimulation, so don’t be surprised if they nap more than usual or need a little time to adjust back to home life.
Give them space to rest, and avoid overwhelming them with too much activity right away. Their regular routine will help them settle in again.
Make Boarding a Positive Part of Travel
With the right preparation, boarding doesn’t have to be stressful. It can be a safe, fun, and comforting experience for your pet while you’re away. Choosing a facility like Pet Ponderosa—where animals are treated with care, attention, and respect—makes all the difference.
If you have travel plans coming up and need a reliable, experienced boarding facility, reach out to Pet Ponderosa. We’re here to answer your questions, walk you through the process, and make sure your pet enjoys a safe and happy stay while you’re away.