How to Board Animals

Boarding your animals while you are away on vacation can be one of the most stressful components of planning. Your dog or cat is a part of the family and you want to make sure your pet is properly cared for in your absence. Ensure your pet is taken care of adequately by a local pet boarding house with most of the amenities of home.

Things You'll Need

  • Shot records
  • Phone book
  • Pet food
  • Water dish
  • Favorite toy
  • Leash
  • Blanket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Call your local veterinarian and ask for recommendations of pet boarding facilities. Also ask for a copy of your pet's shot records to be made and either faxed or picked up, as you will need these when boarding. Research the suggested boarders online to see if there are any ratings or reviews. Call the suggested boarding houses provided by your veterinarian and check on availability and prices.

    • 2

      Put together a package of your pet's stuff to be taken with you to the boarding facility. The package should include items such as your pet's favorite toy, blanket, enough dog food for the stay (plus one to two days extra in the event of a change in plans), your pet's own water bowl, a leash and shot records.

    • 3

      Allot enough time to drop off your pet, answer questions and fill out paperwork before you have to leave to catch a plane or get on the road. Bring with you emergency contact numbers of how to reach you as well as someone nearby, such as a neighbor, sibling or co-worker. Provide information regarding your pet's habits (such as the time it eats), any dietary requirements, medications, vet's numbers and other valuable pieces of information needed in taking care of your pet in your absence.

    • 4

      Transport your pet to the boarding house in whatever method you typically use--crate, leash or on someone's lap. It is important not to change this mode of transport as it can make your pet nervous for where they are headed.

    • 5

      Check your pet in with boarding facility officials and then take it out for one more potty break with you. Remind your pet how much you love it verbally and physically by petting it or rubbing its stomach.

    • 6

      Turn over your pet to the boarding facility while it is on a leash. You do not want your pet to be able to escape after you and this action will instill in your pet that this stranger is actually in control and will be taking care of it.