Why Preparation Matters Before a Boarding Stay

Leaving your dog with a boarding facility or pet sitter can be straightforward — or surprisingly stressful — depending on how well you prepare. Dogs thrive on routine, and an unfamiliar environment with new smells, sounds, and people can be disorienting without the right setup. The good news: most of what can go wrong is preventable with a focused checklist worked through a few days in advance.

This checklist covers everything from health documentation to packing the right items. Whether your dog is a first-time boarder or a seasoned traveler, the steps below help ensure their stay is safe and as comfortable as possible. If you're a first-time dog owner still getting your footing, our new owner guide covers the foundational routines that make boarding prep much easier.

Health and Vaccination Records

Confirm that core vaccinations (rabies, distemper, parvovirus) are current and that your vet has documentation ready. Must
Verify that the Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine is up to date — most boarding facilities require it, and it's most effective at least 48–72 hours before exposure. Must
Ask your boarding facility whether they require any additional vaccines (such as canine influenza) and confirm your dog's status. Must
Bring a printed or digital copy of your dog's vaccination records to drop-off. Must
Confirm your dog is on a current flea and tick prevention program before the stay. Should

Medication and Health Instructions

Write out clear, written instructions for any medications — including the drug name, dose, timing, and administration method. Must
Package all medications in their original labeled containers and include enough supply for the full stay plus one extra day. Must
Inform staff of any known allergies, chronic conditions, or symptoms to watch for. Must
Note your dog's normal eating and drinking patterns so staff can identify changes that could signal stress or illness. Should

Behavioral and Routine Information

Write a short behavior profile covering how your dog interacts with strangers, other dogs, and loud sounds. Must
Share your dog's daily feeding schedule, including portion sizes and any food-related rules (e.g., no table scraps, slow feeder required). Must
Note any known triggers — such as thunderstorm anxiety, resource guarding, or leash reactivity — so staff can prepare. Should
Consider scheduling a trial daycare visit at the facility before a longer stay to help your dog acclimate. Nice to have

Packing and Comfort Items

Pack a familiar-smelling item such as a worn T-shirt or a favorite blanket to provide comfort in the new environment. Should
Bring your dog's regular food to avoid digestive upset from a sudden diet change. Must
Label all items (bowls, bedding, toys, crates) clearly with your dog's name. Must
Pack a favorite toy, but avoid anything irreplaceable in case it gets lost or chewed. Nice to have

Emergency and Contact Preparation

Leave two working contact numbers — yours and a trusted backup — with the facility in writing. Must
Confirm in advance what the facility's protocol is if your dog needs emergency veterinary care, including which vet clinic they use. Must

Tools and Documents to Have Ready

Before you work through the checklist, gather the materials you'll need. Having these on hand prevents last-minute scrambles.

Required

Vaccination records

Required documentation proving your dog's immunization status, typically provided by your veterinarian.

Required

Written medication instructions

A clearly written note detailing drug names, doses, timing, and administration methods for boarding staff.

Required

Dog's regular food supply

Bringing your dog's own food prevents digestive upset caused by switching brands or formulas.

Required

Identification tags and collar

Ensure your dog's collar has a current ID tag with your phone number in case of separation.

Optional

Comfort item from home

A familiar-smelling blanket or clothing item can help reduce anxiety in an unfamiliar environment.

Required

Behavior profile sheet

A simple written summary of your dog's temperament, triggers, and routine to share with staff.

Don't Rely Solely on Verbal Instructions

Boarding staff manage multiple dogs simultaneously and shift changes happen. Verbal instructions about medications, diet restrictions, or behavioral concerns can easily be lost in handoff. Always put critical details in writing and confirm that your written instructions have been received and attached to your dog's file.

A Note on Your Dog's Health and Medications

Boarding facilities see dogs from many households, which means contagious illnesses — like kennel cough — can spread even in well-run environments. Staying current on vaccines is the single most effective protective step you can take. Always confirm with your vet which vaccinations your specific dog needs based on their age, health status, and the type of facility you're using.

If your dog takes any medications, write out the exact instructions clearly — do not rely on verbal communication alone. Include the medication name, dose, frequency, and what to do if a dose is missed. This applies to supplements and topical treatments too.

Vaccinations Need Time to Take Effect

Some vaccines — particularly Bordetella — need at least 48 to 72 hours after administration before they provide meaningful protection. Don't wait until the day before boarding to schedule a vaccine update. If your dog has never been vaccinated or is significantly overdue, consult your veterinarian several weeks in advance to allow time for proper immunization and any required boosters.

For broader preventive health habits, the preventive care hub offers useful context on staying ahead of health issues year-round.