It probably isn’t going to be a huge surprise to find that the holidays tend to be very busy for boarding pets. That doesn’t only apply to the winter holidays, either. The Fourth of July is also a busy travel time, as is Easter. The smaller holidays, such as Memorial Day and Labor Day, can also get busy: many people have long weekends, and schedule their vacations to go around that. Making travel plans? Read on for some tips from a Deer Park, TX dog boarding kennel on boarding your pet during a holiday.
Book Your Pet’s Holiday Boarding Early
This one goes double for anyone traveling at Thanksgiving or the winter holidays, but it also applies to those who are going somewhere for Easter or the Fourth. Many people go home for those long weekends! While Fido and Fluffy may be able to come along for some trips, they also may find themselves in a pet hotel. Make your reservation as soon as you know your plans.
Evaluate Your Options
Another benefit of booking early? You’ve got a better chance of scoring your furry pal a slot at a great kennel. The top places are going to fill up the fastest. That’s something to keep in mind.
If you’re looking for a kennel, this is the time to really do your due diligence. We’ll do deep dives into this in other blogs, but for now we’ll touch on what some of the red and green flags are that you would want to look for.
Red Flags:
- Kennel will not allow the boarding area to be viewed.
- Kennel does not evaluate pets.
- Kennel does not require proof of vaccinations.
- Kennel is not clear about fees or policies.
- Kennel seems dirty or crowded.
- Staff may be stretched too thin, inexperienced, and/or discontent.
- Numerous bad reviews.
Green Flags:
- Kennel is clean and comfortable.
- Kennel requires proof of vaccinations.
- Kennel is clear about rates and policies.
- Kennel has great reviews.
- Staff is courteous and knowledgable.
- Kennel areas are clean, comfy, and secure.
- Cats, dogs, and other animals are kept in separate areas.
- Fun upgrades.
It’s best to find a great place and stick with it. The fact that both you and your pet will already be comfortable and familiar with the pet hotel makes this much easier for both of you.
Make Sure That Your Records Are Current
Any decent kennel is going to require proof that your furry buddy is up to date on any required kennels. For dogs and cats, that would typically mean the core vaccines, as well as a few non-core ones. Fido may also need the canine influenza vaccine, while Fluffy may need to beFeLV Feline leukemia virus vFeLV and/or the feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), and Chlamydophila felis. Bordetella should also be on the list for both dogs and cats.
You’ll want to make sure that you know exactly what is needed, and how and when the information should be sent over. Make sure that your pet will be current at the time of boarding. You may need to schedule a veterinary appointment before your trip.
Update Your Emergency Contact Information
Hopefully, your kennel will never need to reach out to your emergency contact. However, you will need to put some thought into this. Keep in mind that your typical backup may also be traveling or busy on holidays.
Emergency contacts are required for a reason: if something were to happen and the kennel can’t contact you, they will reach out to that person instead. This needs to be someone you trust completely, as they may be tasked with making some very important—and possibly very difficult—decisions about your pet’s care. In an emergency situation, that may entail authorizing veterinary care, including surgery and, in extreme cases, euthanasia. While the odds of something that serious happening while you’re away are slim, they are never zero. If your pet is frail, elderly, and/or has chronic health issues, the chances are increased.
Have a conversation with your backup, and make sure they understand your wishes. Be sure to double check their holiday plans as well.
Get Your Pet Ready
Telling your animal companion that they will be staying at a hotel for a bit probably won’t be very helpful. What you will need to do is start making any adjustments to their schedule well in advance. This applies to dietary changes as well. Changes to your pet’s diet should always be made slowly, over the course of several days or even weeks. It’s best not to make that sort of change just before boarding. Being in a new environment is stressful for pets, as are routine changes. That type of upheaval often makes pets uneasy, which increases the likelihood of Fido and Fluffy having upset stomachs.
Stock Up On Essentials
Don’t wait until the last minute to pack for your pet. You’ll need to bring food. If your furry pal takes any sort of vitamin or supplement, pick up what you need in advance. That also applies to medications. Keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to pack extra, in case of delays or mishaps.
Visit Your Veterinarian
If your furry friend is due for a trip to the vet? Get that done ahead of your trip as well. This isn’t just to ensure that your pet is current on the necessary vaccines and parasite control. You also want to check for any developing issues, particularly those that aren’t causing noticeable symptoms.
Consider Perks And Add Ons
Kennels all have different options when it comes to upgrades. Find out what the available options are. These are not one-size-fits-all. A playful puppy may need doggy daycare or extra playtime, while a cuddly senior cat may want some quality snuggles. Grooming is always a great addition for dogs. You’ll get to come home to snuggle with a clean, fresh-smelling pooch!
Make A List And Check It Twice
Traveling can always be a bit hectic. It’s easy to overlook or forget even the most important things. Stay on top of things by taking a few steps to be extra organized.
Here are a few tips:
- Set reminders on your phone for things you need to do.
- Read over the kennel’s website and paperwork, and make sure you aren’t overlooking anything.
- Email copies of all records and paperwork to yourself so you can access it from anywhere.
- Double check the kennel’s hours of operation, especially times for pickup and boarding.
- Make sure you know what you can and can’t pack for your pet. If possible, include a comfort item, such as a t- shirt you slept in. Generally, you would need food, treats, vitamins, and medicine, and a few toys or comfort items if allowed.
- Prepare paperwork for your pet. Include any relevant information, such as allergies, clearly, as long as any other information that the kennel may need.
- Leave extra time in your schedule. You don’t want to cut things too close, especially if you are trying to catch a flight!
Ask your vet for more information on boarding your pet at a Deer Park, TX pet hotel.
Schedule A Stay At Our Deer Park, TX Pet Board
Do you need to book boarding for your animal companion? PLease do not hesitate to reach out to us. As your Deer Park, TX pet kennel, we provide excellent service!
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