Booking a boarding stay for your dog or cat might seem like a consistent process year-round—but the time of year can make a big difference in your pet’s comfort, care needs, and experience. From temperature changes to holiday rushes, summer and winter stays each come with their own set of considerations.
At Pet Ponderosa, we tailor our care to the season to keep pets safe, calm, and well looked after—no matter the weather. Here’s how summer and winter boarding differ, and how you can prepare.
Climate Control and Temperature Management
Summer Stays:
In the warmer months, heat can become a serious health risk—especially for short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, long-haired cats, senior pets, and those with health conditions. Our boarding areas are fully climate-controlled, and we keep playtime limited to cooler parts of the day or shaded outdoor spaces. Water breaks are frequent, and pets always have access to fresh hydration.
Winter Stays:
In colder months, warmth becomes just as important. Heated indoor areas, cozy bedding, and weather-aware routines ensure pets stay comfortable. Outdoor breaks are kept brief for cold-sensitive pets, and we monitor for signs of discomfort like shivering or stiffness.
Activity Levels and Outdoor Time
Summer:
Outdoor enrichment like walks, agility, or group play might be slightly reduced during peak heat hours, but we supplement with indoor games, puzzles, and one-on-one attention. Early morning and late afternoon tend to be the best times for safe outdoor engagement.
Winter:
When it’s cold out, high-energy dogs might need extra stimulation indoors. We adjust activity options accordingly, making sure your pet stays mentally and physically active even if they spend more time inside.
Seasonal Health Precautions
During Summer:
- Flea and tick prevention is critical. Boarding facilities see many pets in and out, so we require updated flea/tick treatments before check-in.
- Heatstroke awareness is heightened. Our staff is trained to spot the early signs of overheating and act quickly.
During Winter:
- Dry air and cold temperatures can lead to cracked paws or skin irritation. We check paws and coats daily, and use pet-safe products to ease dryness when needed.
- Cold weather can exacerbate arthritis in older pets, so accommodations are made for slower movement or joint sensitivity.
Seasonal Travel and Booking Demand
Summer and winter holidays (especially around July 4th, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) are peak seasons for travel—and by extension, boarding. That means:
- Space fills up fast—early booking is a must
- Pets may be exposed to more animals than during slower seasons, so up-to-date vaccinations are especially important
- Staff stays fully trained to manage higher pet volumes without compromising individual attention
What Pet Parents Can Do to Prepare
- Adjust drop-off routines depending on the season—bring cooling mats or fans in summer, and extra blankets or jackets in winter if your pet needs them.
- Stick to your regular food to prevent digestive stress when environmental changes are already at play.
- Communicate seasonal sensitivities (like allergies, arthritis, or anxiety) when booking so we can prepare the right accommodations.
Keeping Comfort Seasonal, Care Consistent
Whether it’s hot and humid or cold and dry, your pet’s needs don’t pause with the seasons. At Pet Ponderosa, we adapt our care protocols to meet pets where they are—so they feel safe, healthy, and happy every day of the year. Season-specific attention makes all the difference in your pet’s experience—and that’s the kind of detail we never overlook.