Boarding your dog for the first or tenth time can be challenging for both you and your dog. Ease those worries by following these tips on boarding your dog. Have an idea that helps your pooch? Share it in the comments! Ready to board? Be sure that you are registered with our online portal and that we have current vaccination records on file! Visit our Boarding Page for more information about boarding your dog here at Colt’s Canine Club.
Boarding Your Dog Tips
- Health & Wellness. Ensuring that your dog is current on vaccinations (including Flea and Worming Treatments) is an important step. You will need to show proof of these requirements and email them to us or upload through our online portal. This isn’t just a safety practice here at Colt’s Canine Club, but also a contingency for us to remain licensed. Help us keep all the dogs safe and healthy!
- Kennel Training. Kennels are a great place for comfort and well-being for your dog to decompress and relax. We recommend training your dog to have a comfort level with being in a kennel to reduce their stress when boarding.
- Leash. You will want to bring your dog’s normal and customary leash. Please note that we do not use retractable leashes here at Colt’s Canine Club, so a stationary leash that clips to their collar is ideal. It is also important to make sure that your dog can potty both on or off their leash as often times, potty time is a “on lead” walk and not a free roaming time. This reduces stress and reduces accidents. Keeping that in mind, some accidents may result in a bath which can be stressful for your dog – working on their pottying skills will help reduce these odds.
- Visit the kennel. If your pup has not boarded with us, or anywhere before, a visit will help you and your dog learn what to expect. This is a great time to make us aware of any behaviors or habits that your dog may have. It is especially important to share with us if your dog has special handling requirements or is aggressive or reactive. Don’t feel embarrassed if your dog IS reactive – by sharing this, we can help make sure your dog is handled with the utmost care and respect, helping ensure a lower stress visit and to help keep our staff safe.
- Muzzle training. If your dog is reactive or has aggressive outbursts, it is a good idea to muzzle train them before coming to a boarding situation where emotions may run high. By getting your dog comfortable with putting the muzzle on, you are preparing them and helping them see this isn’t scary and is something they’ve done before should it be needed during their stay.
- Food. We do not provide food for your dog during their stay, as we know every dog has their own preferred brand and style of eating and we do not want to give anyone a tummyache while visiting! Please pack enough food for their stay plus a few extra servings should something come up. Clearly labeling the food serving size or parsing into bags with the measured amount is a great way to make sure that your dog eats appropriately while they are with us.
- Comfort Items. We’ve mentioned it a few times, but boarding can be stressful to your furry friend. Help that anxiety by sending a tshirt or blanket that you’ve slept with for a few nights so that your scent is really on this item. This will bring your dog comfort and remind them of your love while you are gone. You can also send something for them to chew on during their stay.
- Drop Off. This can be a time of great stress for your dog. If your dog sees you packing and this increases their anxiety, try dropping them off before you start packing to reduce their stress. When you do drop off, keep your emotions at bay and a bright and cheerful send off. Ear scritches with a “What a good boy (girl)! We’ll see you soon!” and then hand off the lead and make a quick and quiet exit to avoid drawing attention. This can be almost as difficult for the human as the dog, but we promise, keeping it light and quiet, usually reduces the fear!
We want your dog to have a comfortable stay here at Colt’s Canine Club. Feel free to ask questions, share your concerns and remember to book your boarding in advance so we can have a spot for your dog during your time away!