It’s inevitable, sooner or later, you’ll have to board your pet, even for just a little while. So, be prepared, but more importantly, make sure your pet is adequately prepared.

#1 YOUR PET MUST BE VACCINATED.

We require proof of vaccination. If you are currently a client at our clinic, our records will indicate if your pet is vaccinated, and you will not require proof. If your pet is unvaccinated, please inform our receptionist when you book your pet’s stay, and we can schedule vaccinations when you bring them in.

Core Vaccines for Dogs:

• Canine Distemper
• Infectious Hepatitis
• Canine Parvovirus
• Rabies

Noncore:

• Canine Parainfluenza
• Bordetella

Core Vaccines for Cats:

• Feline Panleukopenia
• Feline Herpesvirus
• Feline Calicivirus
• Rabies

#2 FILL OUT THE BOARDING FORM COMPLETELY.

Our form is there to ensure your pet’s health and safety. Please fill it out completely. Ask if you have any questions.

#3 DO NOT BRING FAMILIAR ITEMS.

Many people think bringing your pets favorite toy is “reassuring”. Actually, it can be dangerous. Pets that are stressed can be significantly more aggressive with toys and chewable items. Even their regular bedding can be dangerous if they “act out” by destroying the bedding. They could ingest it and create a significant health risk. So, leave the personal items at home.

#4 DON’T CHANGE YOUR PET’S DIET.

Although we will provide high quality sensitivity food for your pet, any new food could upset their digestive system. We recommend you provide your own food and mark it with feeding amounts. Do the same for medications.

#5 INFORM STAFF VERBALLY OF ANY UNUSUAL BEHAVIORS OR NEEDS.

Our staff is unlikely to have read your boarding form until your pet is actually on our premises, so it’s a good idea to tell them verbally about anything unusual or important. You cannot over communicate.

#6 MAINTAIN YOUR ROUTINE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.

Pets notice a change in routine and may become anxious. Try to maintain your routine as much as possible prior to your departure.

#7 EXERCISE YOUR DOG BEFORE ARRIVAL.

Get in a last bit of together time while relieving any anxiety your pet may be experiencing by getting in a good exercise session before you drop them off. This helps them to be more settled when they arrive.

#8 PROVIDE A TREAT OR TOY WHEN YOU LEAVE.

Your pet may be diverted by a treat and fail to notice you’ve left for a while.

#9 MAKE YOUR DEPARTURE QUICK.

It’s heart-breaking to have to leave your pet, and we’ve seen many pet parents cry when they drop them off. However, that does your pet no good. Keep a calm demeanor and leave quickly.

#10 DON’T BECOME OVERLY EMOTIONAL WHEN YOU PICK UP YOUR PET.

If you become overly emotional, your pet may think there’s something wrong. This may begin a set of behaviors that will make it very difficult for you to board your pet again. Greet them, of course, but leave the most emotional reunion time for the time you arrive home together.

Separation can be difficult but remember: “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”