Did you know that most American homes have a furry friend? Over 65% of households in the U.S. own a pet, showing how much we value our animal companions. But with owning a pet comes many responsibilities, including what to do with them if you have to leave home for a while.
When faced with leaving our pets at overnight dog boarding, it can be daunting and stressful for both pets and their owners. The anxiety of leaving your furry friend in an unfamiliar environment is real, but with the right approach, you can work to transform this experience into an enjoyable and stress-free one.
If you're considering overnight dog boarding options, look no further-we've got you covered. By following these fifteen best practices, you can ensure your dog's overnight stay is a success, providing peace of mind with the knowledge your pet is secure and at ease.
Keep reading for great tips on ensuring your dog's well-being while you're away. We also tell you where to find the best overnight home-away-from-home experience for your furry friend in Miami Gardens and Doral, FL.
1. Research Boarding Facilities
Choosing the right facility is crucial for your dog's well-being. Look for pet boarding services with good reviews and recommendations. Visit the facility in person to check cleanliness, safety measures, and staff friendliness.
Ensure they have a good reputation for safe dog boarding. Word of mouth and personal recommendations can really help here.
Tips for Researching Boarding Facilities
Check out online reviews for feedback from other pet owners. Look for consistent positive feedback and pay attention to any negative reviews.
Ask for recommendations. Speak to your veterinarian, friends, and family who have used boarding services before.
Check if the facility is accredited by organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA).
2. Tour the Facility
Before making a decision, take a tour of the boarding facility. Observe where your dog will sleep, play, and eat.
Ensure the facility is clean, well-maintained, and secure. Ask about their daily routine to see if it aligns with your dog's needs.
There are some things you should look for during the tour. These include, but aren't limited to, the following:
- The facility should be clean and free of strong odors
- Check if the sleeping areas and kennels are regularly cleaned, comfortable and not overcrowded
- Ask about their cleaning protocols for common areas, feeding bowls, and bedding
- Check for secure fencing, gates, and indoor areas
- Emergency protocols, like fire drills and evacuation plans
- Outdoor and indoor play areas should be secure and free from hazards
- Look for ample space for exercise and socialization
3. Meet the Staff
The staff at the pet boarding facility play a crucial role in your dog's experience and comfort. Meet them and ask about their qualifications, experience, and how they handle emergencies. Friendly, knowledgeable staff can make a big difference in providing stress-free boarding.
Some questions to ask the staff include:
- Ask about their experience handling various breeds and temperaments and how long they have worked with animals
- What are their procedures in case of a medical emergency?
- Look for certifications in pet care, first aid, and behavior management
- Ensure there are enough staff members to provide individual attention and care to all pet boarders
Ensure your dog receives personalized attention by opting for facilities with a lower staff-to-dog ratio.
Additional Tips for Success
Visit the boarding facility during peak hours, such as late morning or early afternoon. This will give you a good idea of how the staff handle busy times. If possible, observe a play session to see how the staff interact with the dogs and manage group play.
Observe how they manage multiple dogs and ensure that all pets receive attention and care.
Look for Enrichment Programs
Some boarding facilities offer enrichment programs to keep dogs mentally stimulated. These can include:
- Puzzle toys
- Training sessions
- Special activities
Understand the Boarding Contract
Carefully read the boarding contract before signing it to prevent misunderstandings. Pay attention to the terms about:
- Pricing and the breakdown of costs
- Cancellations
- Emergency procedures
- Pickup and drop-off times
- Payment policies
- Included services such as dog grooming
Ask if the boarding facility provides regular updates during your dog's stay. Some facilities offer photos or video updates, which can provide peace of mind to owners.
4. Check Vaccination Requirements
Most boarding facilities need proof of vaccinations to ensure all dogs are healthy and safe. Make sure your dog is up-to-date on all required vaccinations. This protects not only your dog but also other pets at the facility.
Commonly required vaccines include:
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Parvovirus
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
5. Pack Familiar Items
Bring some of your dog's favorite items to the boarding facility. Familiar items can give comfort and reduce anxiety. These items help create a sense of home, making the overnight stay more enjoyable.
Some items to consider packing:
- A couple of your dog's favorite toys can keep them occupied
- A blanket or an item with your scent can provide reassurance and comfort
- Pack enough of your dog's regular food and treats to last the entire stay
- Leash and collar and their own food bowls
6. Provide Detailed Instructions
Give the boarding facility detailed instructions about your dog's feeding schedule, medication, and any special needs. Clear communication ensures your dog receives the same care and routine they are used to at home.
Key information to include:
- Specify the brand and type of food your dog eats (e.g., dry, wet, raw)
- Indicate the times your dog should be fed
- Mention the exact amount of food for each meal
- Include any treats your dog is allowed and the appropriate quantities
- Inform the staff of any restrictions or allergies
- If your dog needs medication, provide clear instructions and a schedule
7. Schedule a Trial Run
If your dog has never been boarded overnight, consider scheduling a trial run. A short stay can help your dog get used to the new environment and staff. This can make the longer stay less stressful for both you and your pet.
Benefits of a Trial Run
It can help your dog become familiar with the new surroundings, which can reduce anxiety and stress during future visits.
It provides an opportunity to assess how well your dog adjusts to the kennel setting and interacts with staff and other dogs. This helps determine if the facility is a good fit for your pet's temperament and needs.
During the trial run, you can assess the cleanliness, safety measures, and quality of the facilities
It allows staff to get to know your dog's behavior and needs and ease your worries as you know your dog can handle this new environment.
8. Maintain Regular Feeding Schedule
Try to keep your dog's feeding schedule as consistent as possible. Provide the facility with your dog's regular food and instructions on feeding. Consistency in feeding helps maintain your dog's routine and reduces stress.
Tips for maintaining consistency include:
- Pre-measure your dog's meals to avoid any confusion
- Inform the staff if your dog has any dietary restrictions or preferences
- Provide specific treats your dog is used to, if applicable
9. Ensure Plenty of Exercise
Dogs need regular exercise to keep healthy and happy. Make sure the boarding facility gives them ample opportunities for play and exercise. Ask about their exercise routines and if they have secure outdoor areas for playtime.
Check if they have designated playtimes where dogs can run and play freely. If your dog is social, ask if they offer group play sessions with other dogs. Indoor spaces are also important for exercise, especially in bad weather.
Tips for ensuring good exercise
Detail your dog's usual exercise routine, including the type, duration, and intensity of exercise they need. Mention any specific activities your dog enjoys, such as fetch, running, or agility training.
Specify the times of day your dog is used to exercising, so the kennel can try to maintain their routine. Also, indicate how often your dog should be exercised each day.
10. Keep Your Dog's Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, so ensure the Dog Boarding facility can maintain your dog's regular schedules. Keeping a familiar routine helps your dog feel more secure and less anxious.
Tips to maintain a routine include the following:
- Provide the facility with a detailed daily routine for walks and playtime
- Inform the staff about any specific commands or signals your dog responds to
- Indicate your dog's usual bedtime and preferred sleeping arrangements
- Note how frequently your dog needs bathroom breaks
11. Monitor Health and Behavior
Inform the boarding staff of any health issues or behavioral concerns. This includes allergies, medical conditions, or anxiety triggers. The staff can then take the necessary precautions to ensure your dog's well-being.
Health Monitoring Tips
Request regular updates on your dog's health and behavior and ensure there is a clear plan for emergencies. Inform staff about signs of stress or illness specific to your dog.
Help the staff understand your dog's behavior and temperament. Where applicable, provide information on the following:
- Their temperament (e.g., friendly, shy, anxious)
- How your dog interacts with other dogs and people
- Any specific triggers that may cause anxiety or aggression
- Any particular habits or quirks, such as chewing, digging, or barking
12. Provide Emergency Contact Information
Leave multiple contact numbers with the boarding facility. This ensures that in an emergency, the staff can reach you or get immediate medical assistance for your dog.
Essential contact information to include:
- Your main phone number for the primary contact
- A secondary number for a trusted friend or family member
- Your vet's name and contact details
13. Communicate Any Special Needs
If your dog needs special attention or specific care, communicate this clearly to the boarding facility. Whether it's a special diet, medication, or extra attention, clear instructions help ensure your dog receives the care they need.
Types of special needs include:
- Specific foods to avoid or required diets
- Any ongoing medical treatments or conditions
14. Stay Positive and Calm
Dogs can sense your emotional state, so try to keep calm and positive during drop-off. Your dog will feel more at ease if they sense that you are relaxed and confident.
Pack your dog's belongings, including food, medication, bedding, and toys, in advance. This will help streamline the drop-off process and minimize stress for both you and your dog.
Give yourself plenty of time for drop-off to avoid feeling rushed. Arriving early allows you to calmly check-in, ask any last-minute questions, and say goodbye to your dog without feeling hurried.
Tips to help you prepare for a positive drop-off include:
- Be mindful of your body language
- Show confidence and reassurance when speaking to your dog
- Keep your goodbyes short and upbeat
- Trust that the staff can take good care of your dog
15. Prepare Your Dog for Boarding
Preparation goes beyond packing familiar items and scheduling a trial run. Training your dog to handle separation and new environments can significantly reduce stress during boarding.
Steps to Prepare Your Dog for Boarding
Introduce your dog to new places and other dogs gradually. This helps them adapt more easily to the boarding facility. If the boarding facility uses crates, ensure your dog is comfortable in a crate beforehand.
Practice leaving your dog alone for brief periods. Gradually increase the time to help them get used to being away from you. Visit the boarding facility a few times before the actual stay to make positive associations with it.
Give treats and play games during these visits to create a positive experience and connection.
Ensuring Success for Overnight Dog Boarding
Ensuring a successful overnight dog boarding experience involves good preparation and understanding of your dog's needs. By following the best practices outlined here, you can alleviate stress or anxiety. Just remember to trust your instincts when picking a boarding facility.
For over a decade, Doggies Gone Wild has provided Miami-Dade pets with luxury boarding accommodations and a welcoming environment. Geared to meet the needs and interests of your beloved pet, our facilities offer comfort, safety, and fun. Visit us at either of our convenient locations and give your furry friend the best overnight care they deserve!