Pet Boarding Planning

Like your own vacation (or business trip), boarding your pet requires planning and preparation. Before boarding your plane, boat, car, or train, check this list for common precautions and procedures for boarding your pet!

  • Make an appointment well in advance, as the busy season is called that for a good reason!
  • Bring your pet in for a wellness exam approximately one month prior to boarding, just in case a problem is brewing, or to refill prescriptions, and to update the required vaccinations for boarding
  • Bring your pet’s proof of vaccination paperwork, especially for rabies, canine and feline influenza, and Bordetella, with you when dropping off your pet
  • Flea and tick preventative is a must – be sure your pet is protected before boarding
  • Before you leave for your trip, but after you’ve gotten all required vaccinations and exams, it’s a great idea to bring your pet to the facility for a quick tour, then schedule a half-day’s stay so that he or she is familiar with the facility, and knows you’ll come back
  • Let the kennel know in advance if your pet is aggressive, has allergies, severe anxiety, health issues, incontinence, or other problems
  • Don’t forget to pack your pet’s medication
  • If the facility allows it, bring your pet’s favorite toys, bedding, or other comforts-of-home to make him or her feel more secure
  • Your pet will do best when eating his or her regular food and treats, so bring enough of both for the entire stay, and put your pet’s name and feeding amounts on the containers (again, if it’s in-line with your boarding facility’s policies)
  • Make sure the facility has your regular vet’s contact details, and ensure that an emergency veterinarian will be available if a serious problem arises

Basic Boarding Back-up

Be sure to leave detailed contact information with the facility both for yourself and for a designated local “surrogate” who is not traveling with you. Both the facility and your surrogate should have a signed document from you clearly stating who is to be responsible for unexpected veterinary bills, if there is a cap on veterinary expenditures, the amount authorized, and your preferences for treatment options, should something unthinkable happen.

In the Aurora area we recommend Heritage Pets for the best, happy-for-everyone pet boarding experience, but you can check the Humane Society’s website for more options. And of course, if you have concerns about your pet’s health, want to schedule an exam, get flea and tick preventatives, or just have questions, call us anytime. We’re here 24/7 to help.