You have got the boarding reservation locked in. The trip is planned. Now comes the small but important question the night before drop-off: what do I actually need to send with my dog?
Packing for a boarding stay is not complicated, but getting it right makes your dog’s stay smoother and more comfortable, and a few smart choices prevent the little hiccups that can come up while you are away. Here is your simple, save-it-for-later checklist. (If you want the bigger-picture prep, we have a full guide on preparing your dog for boarding too. This one is just the packing list.)
The Essentials (Do Not Skip These)
- Enough of your dog’s own food for the whole stay, plus a little extra. Sudden diet changes cause upset stomachs, so we keep your dog on their normal food. Pre-portion it into labeled bags if you can. It makes feeding foolproof and prevents mix-ups.
- All medications and supplements, clearly labeled, with written instructions (what, how much, when). Send a little extra in case your trip runs long.
- A copy of vaccination records if we do not already have current ones on file.
- Your contact info and an emergency contact, plus your vet’s name and number.
Comfort From Home
These are not strictly required, but they help a lot, especially for a nervous dog or a longer stay:
- A familiar blanket or bed that smells like home.
- A favorite toy or two (nothing they could destroy and swallow).
- An unwashed item of your clothing, like an old t-shirt. Your scent is genuinely comforting to a dog who misses you.
An Info Sheet That Helps Us Care for Them Like You Do
A quick note with the little things makes a real difference:
- Feeding schedule and amounts.
- Medication times.
- Routines, commands they know, and quirks.
- Fears or triggers (thunder, certain noises).
- Anything that helps your dog feel safe and understood.
The more we know, the more your dog’s stay feels like home.
A Few Things to Leave at Home
- Expensive or irreplaceable items. Things get washed, chewed, or lost at any facility, so send comfort items you would not be heartbroken to lose.
- Food in one giant unmeasured bag if you can help it. Pre-portioned is so much safer.
- Retractable leashes. Bring a standard leash and collar with current ID and rabies tags.
- A brand-new food or treat you have never given them. The middle of a boarding stay is not the time to test a new diet.
One Last Tip: Label Everything
Put your dog’s name on their food container, their bag, their bedding, and their toys. When a facility is caring for several dogs, clear labels make sure your dog’s things stay your dog’s things. It takes two minutes and saves any mix-ups.
That Is It, You Are Ready
Pack the essentials, add a few comforts from home, jot down the important details, label it all, and you are set. Your dog has everything they need for a calm, comfortable stay, and you can travel with one less thing on your mind.
Still need to book your dog’s stay? Holiday spots fill fast, so if you are traveling this season, reach out today to reserve, and we will take wonderful care of your pup. 🐾