The first step in preparing to put your dog in boarding kennels is to check the place out. Your pet needs a comfortable home while away from you. You want to know your pet is going to be well looked after and any medical conditions well cared for. You will also want to consider your pet’s psychological health. You can prepare for some of this yourself by making sure that the dog boarding kennels you choose will allow your pet to have some items or toys which remind them of you and home.

Ideally you want a home away from home for your dog. Your pet will be much happier if they can sleep on their own bed, cushion or with their own blankets at the kennels. Some kennels discourage or forbid toys and personal bedding in case they get lost or damaged.

Not all dog boarding kennels allow you to but if you can take their toys and familiar food that is best. If possible you want them to have access to an outside play area for most of the day if this is what they are used to. Being able to lie around and play on fresh grass is important to some dogs. If they have access whenever they want these animals will be less stressed when you leave them..

Some dogs crave personal attention and to be played with and cuddled. Some places provide this automatically, others only if you pay extra and often this is by the hour. There is no real way of knowing in advance if they do get this but a place develops a reputation over time. Those who have used the services before are the best source of information so ask around for good dog boarding kennels.

You will need to take a copy of your animal’s vaccination certificates and any other legal requirements so make sure you put this in your bag of toys, bedding and any special treats you might be leaving when you drop off your pet at the dog boarding kennels.