Leaving your furry companion behind while you go on holiday can be as difficult as choosing between the beach or the mountains, but sometimes there’s no choice. Not all hotels allow four-legged guests, and taking him to Aunt Marta’s can lead to soap-opera-worthy drama. So, if you do have to leave him at a kennel, make sure you pack the essentials for your dog to enjoy his own getaway… all-inclusive!
Not all kennels are the same; some are like five-star hotels and others are…. Well, not to mention them. Take a look at our article on What to look for in a doggy day care, so your furry one doesn’t end up in a place less cosy than a cat’s bed.
Leaving your dog at boarding can be more stressful than forgetting your mobile phone charger on your journey. But a good centre will make sure your four-legged friend gets all the pampering he needs to feel at home. To avoid last minute disappointment, it’s best to make a pre-visit to the venue and check that your dog is comfortable in your all-inclusive hotel.
And when the big day arrives, don’t forget to pack these **8 essentials** to ensure your furry one enjoys a luxury stay worthy of a VIP (Very Important Pup).
1. Food
Your dog is not a food critic in search of exotic new flavours. Chances are he has his two favourite brands of food and everything else seems like a culinary betrayal. Introducing him to a surprise menu in the middle of a stay could end in a digestive disaster worthy of a horror movie. And the last thing you want is for your furry friend to spend the holiday in discomfort.
Besides, he’ll have enough to do adjusting to a new environment and different schedules, so don’t make food another source of stress.
To avoid food dramas, make sure you send enough food for the entire stay. Ideally, divide portions into labelled sachets for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as if you were packing a very furry child’s lunch. And don’t forget to pack extra rations, because flights get delayed, plans change and your dog won’t want to go hungry if your return is extended — better to be safe than to hear barking protests!
2. Medicine
Many dogs take regular medication or supplement every day. Boarding facilities will be more than happy to be sure your dog gets all required meds and supplements. Make sure you include the instructions on number of doses, dosage amount and the schedule of when they should be given.
3. Leash
Most dog boarding facilities require that you send your dog with at least one leash. It’s a good idea to send a second leash just in case.
4. Identification for your dog
Carrying proper ID isn’t just for police officers; it’s also a mission essential for any dog. Maintaining current contact information is generally advisable, but it is particularly essential when your pet is away from home and in unfamiliar surroundings.
Ensure your dog is wearing a collar with clearly visible identification. Microchipping is also a common practice among pet owners, as it provides an extra layer of security should your dog decide to explore independently. The tag should include your name and yours if necessary, your contact, and a reliable telephone number. If you want to go a step further, you can add your address or even an emergency contact, because it’s better to be safe than to go around sticking up posters around town.
5. Emergency Contact Information
You’d give your kid a contact number for a sleepover, just in case something goes wrong (like they lose their teddy). It’s the same deal when your dog stays at a kennel.
Ensure the kennel has your contact information readily available should an emergency arise or if they require clarification regarding your dog. They may need to contact you for any number of reasons, perhaps even simply to share positive news about your dog’s stay.
It’s always good to leave the phone number for your veterinarian, as well as emergency contact information other than your phone number. Perhaps use a friend or family member who is familiar with your dog in case the facility is unable to contact you.
6. Reminder of Home
Your dog will miss you as much as you miss him (or even more, because you won’t be able to call him or send him ‘did you get there OK?’ messages). This doggy homesickness can be a little anxiety-inducing, but there’s one sure-fire trick: send a little piece of home in your suitcase.
Include something with your scent on it-a blanket, a T-shirt or even that sock your partner always loses. Your scent will be like an invisible hug, reminding him that even though he’s on holiday, his favourite human is still thinking about him – and nothing calms a dog more than smelling his human!
7. Toys
If you have children, you’ll know that there are some toys that are a must on any outing (yes, that chewed-up doll with one eye missing). Well, it’s the same with your dog.
You know better than anyone which toys make your furry one wag his tail with more excitement than when he hears the word ‘walk’. Be sure to pack his favourites to keep him entertained during his kennel stay. A busy dog is a happy dog…
8. Favorite Snacks
Nothing says ‘all is well’ like a tasty treat, and your dog is no exception. Keeping his favourite treats on hand can make him feel more comfortable and, in the process, give the kennel an easy way to win his little heart (and tummy).
If at home your dog gets his treat at an exact time, as if it were an immovable appointment, you can ask the kennel to keep up the tradition.
Good planning will help you get ready for that work trip or relaxing vacation and have you knowing that your best friend will be well take care of. And probably have a great vacation themselves.
