1. FOOD

Most pet owners stick with 1 to 2 different types of food that they know their dog enjoys. If you have ever tried to introduce a different type of brand or food to your dog, you know that this can cause a negative change in appetite and even an upset stomach. Since your dog may already feel uneasy in the unfamiliar environment of the dog daycare, you want to keep the other aspects of his life as normal as possible. Provide your pet sitter with enough food to last the entire duration of your dog’s stay. Use small plastic baggies to package pre-measured meals, and label them “Breakfast”, “Lunch”, and “Dinner”. This will ensure that your dog is getting exactly the right amount of food for each meal. If there is any food leftover, the pet sitters will be able to tell that your dog may be feeling stressed or uncomfortable. If there are any food restrictions please list them in your portal in your pets profile. 

2. MEDICINE & SUPPLEMENTS

Many dogs must take a certain medication and/or supplements on a daily basis, and your dog boarding facility will be happy to administer these to them as needed. Include the appropriate number of doses that your dog will need to take in your absence, as well as written instructions with details such as dosage amount and schedule. If the medicine and/or supplements must be taken with food, it’s helpful to include them in the pre-packaged meal bags.

Sometimes being in an unfamiliar environment and being around other dogs can trigger an existing ailment in your dog. In addition to any regular medications, include emergency medications that you think may be necessary just in case.

3. FAVORITE SNACKS TOYS & BED

Almost every dog has their favorites that they just can’t live without. Pack 1 or 2 of these toys to make sure your dog has all of the fun that he enjoys at home. If your pet has its own bed we recommend bringing that as well. Also if they are crate trained, some dogs feel safe when it is near them. Feel free to bring that as well. Packing long-lasting chews is a great way to keep your dog occupied during his visit. Bringing his favorite toys will also help entice him to enjoy his stay and play with any new friends, human or canine, he may make. These items may also remind your pup of home and make him feel that the routine is staying somewhat normalized. For example, if your dog gets a certain treat at a certain time every day, you can ask us to do the same!.

 4. A REMINDER OF HOME

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and this is especially true for pets and their owners. No matter how much fun you and your pet are having, you on your vacation and your dog with his new friends, you will surely miss each others’ company. To keep your dog feeling close to you even in your absence, include something with your scent. This can be a blanket, t-shirt, or even a sock. These items hold your scent, your dog’s scent, and the scent of the rest of your household. The familiarity will help soothe your dog should he become stressed or homesick, and these items are very easy to pack in your pup’s bag. Plus, they’re soft and physically comforting.

5. AT LEAST 1 LEASH

We require your pup to enter on a leash. We do have a fully fenced yard so it's only a requirement for picking up and dropping off. 

6. DOCUMENTS AND SHOT RECORDS UPLOADED IN YOUR TIME TO PET PORTAL(Please see How to Book services)

If you have not submitted all of the info necessary beforehand, be sure that all required documents and forms are uploaded before drop off day. This could include everything from medical records, vaccination charts, contracts, and rule acknowledgment forms. Finally, make sure your pet is up-to-date on the required vaccines: This usually includes

• Respiratory Bordetella

• Distemper*

• Hepatitis or Adenovirus

• Parvo

• Rabies

• Flea Preventative

7. OTHER SPECIAL ITEMS

As your dog’s owner, you know more about him than anyone else on the planet. Does your dog have a special food or water bowl that he loves to eat and drink out of? Does he have a KONG or certain treats that make his tail wag? Think of items that will help your dog feel happy and comfortable and throw them into your dog’s overnight bag.