Learning About Vet Services

The arrival of the holidays can often mean travelers are forced to find safe places for their dogs. If you are planning to place your dog in an animal boarding facility, you need to make sure it is prepared for the experience. To help you get prepared the right way, here are some steps you can take now.

1. Check your dog's vaccinations. The boarding facility will not take your dog if it is not current on its vaccinations. Each facility has different requirements, so check with the facility and schedule a visit to the vet if there are any missing vaccinations.
2. Pack your dog's medications. If your dog is taking medications or supplements, you need to provide enough for the time at the boarding facility. Some dogs can have a relapse of an existing medical condition due to anxiety about being away from home. Try to include medications to treat that condition, too.
3. Get a checkup. Your dog might not physically ready to go to the facility. A checkup will help to reassure you that the dog is. Let the vet know how long the dog will be boarded so that he or she can provide health tips to cover that period.
4. Pack food and instructions. If your dog has any special dietary needs, the staff at the boarding facility need to know. For instance, if your dog can only have the treats you provide, put it in writing.
5. Check the boarding space. You want to be sure the space in which your dog will be placed is suited to its needs. For instance, if your dog has anxiety when it is around other dogs, you want to be sure the space provides the solitude your dog needs.
6. Take a practice day. If your dog has never been to a boarding facility or it has been awhile, spending a day at the facility before the longer stay is ideal. Your dog will have a chance to familiarize itself with the environment, which will make the longer stay easier.
7. Pack your dog's favorite toys. While your dog is away at the boarding facility, you want to be sure that it has some comforts. A favorite toy, blanket, or other personal item can help with the anxiety that your dog might feel.

Contact the boarding facility, such as Marquette Animal Hospital, a few days before your dog's scheduled visit to learn if there are some additional things you can do to make sure your dog is comfortable during its stay.