10 Tips for Making Your Dog’s Boarding Stay Enjoyable

Boarding can be a stressful experience for both you and your dog. 

If you’re like most American dog owners, you’ve likely forgone air travel or missed experiences because you’re not sure what to do with your pup while you’re gone. In fact, Civic Science research shows that up to 50% of pet owners report owning a pet has prevented them from traveling by airplane. 

If you’ve found yourself in this position before, know that you do have options for safe boarding and pet care when you’re away. 

At Your Dog’s Best Days, we understand the unique challenges dogs face in boarding facilities. As such, we are dedicated to helping Tulsa, Oklahoma, pet owners create stress-free, enjoyable stays for their furry companions. 

In this post, we share ten research-backed tips to help make your dog’s stay more comfortable and enjoyable ー so you can rest easy on your next vacation. 

1. Choose the Right Dog Boarding Facility

The first step in successfully boarding your dog is selecting the right place. The truth is that not all dog boarding facilities are created equal, and some will give you more peace of mind than others.

As you begin your hunt, look for key quality indicators, such as cleanliness, well-trained staff, proper certifications, and a healthy dog-to-staff ratio. Considering that the pet boarding services market is valued at over $6.7 billion, you likely have your fair share of options. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about staff qualifications and how dogs are cared for to ensure your pet will be in good hands. This is your beloved pet, and you deserve to understand every detail of their boarding experience. 

2. Plan a Pre-Boarding Visit

Taking your dog for a pre-boarding visit can significantly reduce their anxiety (and yours!). A familiarization visit allows your dog to get comfortable with the sights, sounds, and smells of the facility, reducing fear when it’s time for the actual stay. 

It’s estimated that more than 70% of dogs display anxiety symptoms, so if you’re worried about your pup, know that you’re not alone. Reputable boarding facilities should be more than happy to accommodate your pet with separation anxiety. 

3. Bring Familiar Items from Home

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to comfort your dog during boarding is to bring familiar items from home, such as their favorite blanket or toy. These comfort objects remind your dog of home, offering security in a new environment. 

As the Humane Society of the United States reports, toys aren’t just a luxury, but a necessity. They provide comfort when they’re feeling nervous and help fight boredom, at home or at a boarding facility. 

4. Provide Detailed Instructions on Your Dog’s Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, so providing detailed instructions to the boarding facility about your dog’s feeding schedule, medications, walking preferences, and sleeping habits can help ease the transition. The American Kennel Club states that dogs thrive on consistency and benefit from knowing what to expect. 

Boarding your pup will certainly throw their routine out of whack, but you can still take steps to help them temporarily adjust. By maintaining consistency in their daily schedule, you can minimize disruptions to their well-being.

For instance, at Your Dog’s Best Days, we tailor your dog’s boarding routine to their usual schedule in regards to potty breaks, daily play sessions, and meals. This helps them feel comfortable and secure throughout their stay. 

5. Choose Facilities Offering Enrichment Activities

Environmental enrichment (such as puzzle toys, interactive games, or group play sessions with other dogs) is vital for your dog’s mental and physical well-being during boarding. Enrichment activities have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs.

Before committing to boarding your dog, ask the facility about their enrichment options to ensure your dog stays mentally stimulated and happy.

6. Consider Shorter Initial Stays

If your dog is new to boarding, consider starting with a shorter stay. Gradual introductions help build trust and allow your dog to get used to the environment in a less overwhelming way. 

This is especially important to consider if your puppy is young (under two years of age). They may struggle with the adjustment more than older pets who have experienced change more frequently. 

7. Make Sure Your Dog Gets Plenty of Exercise and Playtime

Exercise is crucial for your dog’s happiness and health during a boarding stay. According to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, regular exercise can help reduce unwanted behaviors while also…

• Minimizing tummy troubles
• Improving sleep quality 
• Building confidence

All of these things are especially important during your dog’s stay at a boarding facility. Ask the facility about their exercise schedule and playtime routines to ensure your dog gets the physical activity they need.

8. Ensure Your Dog Gets Individual Attention from Staff

You want to know your furry friend won’t just be another number at the boarding facility. One-on-one attention from staff can greatly improve your dog’s stay. Positive interactions with staff help reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Personalized attention also builds trust between your dog and the caregivers, creating a more reassuring environment.

9. Consider Your Dog’s Temperament

Understanding your dog’s temperament is key to tailoring their boarding experience. Some dogs thrive in social settings and enjoy group play, while others prefer quiet, private spaces. On the other hand, more introverted dogs may benefit from quieter environments and less interaction. 

Choose a boarding facility that can accommodate your pet’s unique personality. What would help your dog feel the happiest and most at peace during their stay?

10. Monitor Long-Term Boarding Impact on Behavior

Frequent or prolonged boarding stays can affect your dog’s behavior, making it important to monitor any changes in anxiety or stress levels. To mitigate potential negative effects, consider balancing boarding stays with regular homestays and follow-up care to ensure your dog’s emotional well-being is maintained.

Boarding Your Dog Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

According to Psychiatry.org, over half of American pet owners are worried about arrangements while traveling. We know it’s difficult to place your dog in someone else’s care, but there are ways to make it easier. 

Planning ahead and following these ten tips can help you ensure your dog’s boarding stay is enjoyable, comfortable, and stress-free. From choosing the right facility to providing familiar items and ensuring individualized care, understanding your dog’s needs is key to creating a positive experience. 

At Your Dog’s Best Days, we also prioritize your pet’s well-being, offering a range of Tulsa-based services designed to make boarding a happy and fulfilling experience for your furry family member. 

Have questions about our dog boarding services?

Contact us today! You can also arrange a no-obligation visit to familiarize yourself and your dog with our Tulsa facility.