Small white dog is running into the open doors of boarding playroom at Dogtopia of San Antonio - Stone Oaks.

Leaving your dog behind while going on a trip can be stressful for both you and your furry friend. To make the process smoother and more comfortable for your pet, proper preparation is key. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to help ensure a positive boarding experience.

Do: Keep Departures Positive and Quick

Leaving your pet can be emotional but try to keep goodbyes brief and positive. Dogs can pick up on your anxiety, which might cause them stress. To make the transition easier, stay calm and confident. When dropping your dog off at Dogtopia, keep your emotions in check, and focus on making the experience feel normal. This helps your dog feel secure and reduces the chance of separation anxiety.

Don’t: Delay Vaccination Update

Most boarding facilities require updated vaccinations to ensure the health and safety of all the animals. It’s important to make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date well before the boarding date. Ideally, visit the vet two weeks in advance to allow time for any new vaccines to take effect. Bring a copy of your dog’s health records to Dogtopia for verification, so you won’t have to worry about last-minute issues.

Do: Update Identification Tags

Before boarding your pet, ensure that your dog’s identification tags, and microchip information are current. Emergencies can happen and having accurate contact information is crucial. You might be on vacation and not always available by phone, so an updated ID tag or microchip ensures that Dogtopia can quickly reach out to you or another designated contact.

Don’t: Forget to Pack Familiar Objects

Boarding can be a big change for your dog, so bringing along a few familiar items can help ease their anxiety. Check with Dogtopia to see if they allow you to send items like your dog’s favorite toys, blanket, or bed. Familiar smells and objects provide comfort and help your dog feel more at home while they’re away from you.

Do: Train and Socialize Your Dog

If your dog isn’t used to being around other animals, they may struggle in a boarding environment. To help your pet adapt, invest time in socialization training before boarding. This involves letting your dog interact with other dogs in controlled environments to build confidence. The more comfortable your dog is around others, the easier their time at Dogtopia.

Don’t: Ignore Sleeping Habits

If your dog is used to sleeping with you in bed, they may have a tough time adjusting to sleeping alone at Dogtopia. In the days leading up to boarding, help your dog get accustomed to sleeping in their own bed. This will make their stay at Dogtopia more comfortable, ensuring they can rest peacefully.

Preparing for dog boarding can seem overwhelming, but following these do’s and don’ts will help make the experience positive for both you and your pup. From staying calm during drop-off to ensuring vaccinations and identification are up to date, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your dog happy and safe while you’re away.