Dog Boarding 101: How to Choose the Best Facility for Your Pet

I know that leaving your dog behind, even for a well-deserved vacation, can feel like a knot in your stomach. You're not alone in that worry. The good news is that with the right preparation and a careful eye, you can find a boarding facility that keeps your dog safe, happy, and well-cared-for while you're away. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from red-flag emergencies to what your vet will do if something goes wrong.

⚠️ Emergency: When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care While most boarding experiences go smoothly, emergencies can happen. Go to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital or call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs during or after boarding:

• Difficulty breathing (gasping, blue gums, excessive panting at rest)
• Collapse or inability to stand
• Seizures (especially if lasting more than 2 minutes or multiple in a row)
• Vomiting or diarrhea with blood (especially if dark, tarry, or coffee-ground-like)
• Known toxin ingestion (e.g., chocolate, xylitol, raisins, or unknown substances)
• Severe lethargy (won't get up, won't eat, seems "out of it")
• Trauma (hit by a car, fall from height, fight with another dog causing deep wounds)
• Bloated or distended abdomen (especially with unproductive retching, this is a sign of gastric dilatation-volvulus, a life-threatening emergency)
• Inability to urinate (especially in male dogs, could indicate a urinary blockage)
• Temperature above 104°F (40°C) or below 99°F (37.2°C)

Do not wait to see if symptoms improve. Call ahead to the emergency clinic so they can prepare. If you're out of town, ask the boarding facility for the nearest 24-hour veterinary hospital.

What You're Seeing and What It Likely Means

When you pick up your dog from boarding, you might notice a range of behaviors. Some dogs bounce out of the kennel wagging their tails, while others seem subdued, clingy, or even a little "off." Let's break down what you might see and what it typically means.

The Happy, Tired Dog

This is the most common scenario. Your dog has spent days playing, exploring new smells, and interacting with other dogs and humans. They're physically and mentally exhausted in the best way. You might see:

• Excessive sleeping for the first 24–48 hours after returning home.
• Increased thirst from all the activity.
• A slightly hoarse bark from all the excitement.

What it likely means: Your dog had a fantastic time. They were well-exercised, socialized, and stimulated. This is a sign of a good boarding experience. Just let them rest and rehydrate.

The Clingy or Anxious Dog

Some dogs, especially those with a history of separation anxiety or who are new to boarding, may show signs of stress after being away from you. You might see:

• Following you from room to room and not wanting to be alone.
• Whining, pacing, or panting even when you're home.
• Decreased appetite for the first day or two.
• Excessive licking of paws or objects.

What it likely means: Your dog experienced some level of stress during boarding. This doesn't necessarily mean the facility was bad, it could simply be that your dog is sensitive to changes in routine and environment. The good news is that this behavior usually resolves within a few days as they settle back into their home routine. If it persists for more than a week, or if your dog shows signs of severe distress (refusing to eat or drink, hiding, or becoming aggressive), it's worth a call to your veterinarian.

The "Off" Dog: Signs of Illness or Injury

Less commonly, your dog might come home with signs of a physical problem. This is where your observation skills are crucial. Look for:

• Vomiting or diarrhea (especially if it's watery, contains blood, or persists beyond 24 hours).
• Coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge (kennel cough is a common concern).
• Limping or favoring a leg (could be a sprain, strain, or injury from play).
• Red, runny eyes or squinting (could be conjunctivitis or a corneal scratch).
• Lumps, bumps, or hot spots on the skin (could be from insect bites, allergic reactions, or minor wounds).
• Excessive scratching or head shaking (could be ear infections or parasites).

What it likely means: Your dog may have picked up a minor illness or injury during their stay. Boarding facilities, like daycare centers for children, are places where germs can spread. The most common is Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) , often called kennel cough. This is usually a mild, self-limiting illness, but it can be more serious in puppies, senior dogs, or those with underlying health conditions. Any sign of injury should be evaluated by a vet.

What You Can Safely Do Right Now

Before you panic, here's a step-by-step guide for what you can do at home for common post-boarding issues. Always err on the side of caution and call your vet if you're unsure.

For the Happy, Tired Dog

1. Provide fresh water: Make sure they have constant access to clean, cool water.
2. Offer a quiet space: Let them sleep in their favorite bed or crate without interruption.
3. Feed a bland meal: If they seem a little off their food, offer a small meal of boiled white rice and plain, boiled chicken (no skin, no bones, no seasoning). This is gentle on the stomach.
4. Limit activity: No long walks or intense play for the first 24 hours. Let them recover.
5. Give them time: They'll be back to their normal selves in a day or two.

For the Clingy or Anxious Dog

1. Maintain a calm, predictable routine: Stick to their usual feeding, walking, and sleeping schedule. Routine is incredibly reassuring for anxious dogs.
2. Provide a "safe space": Make sure they have access to a quiet area (like a crate or a specific room) where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
3. Use positive reinforcement: Reward calm behavior with gentle praise and treats. Ignore anxious behaviors like whining or pacing, giving them attention can inadvertently reinforce the anxiety.
4. Try a calming aid: Consider a pheromone diffuser (like Adaptil) or a calming supplement (like L-theanine or Zylkene). These are available over-the-counter and can help take the edge off. Always check with your vet before starting any new supplement.
5. Don't force interaction: Let your dog come to you. If they want to be close, that's fine. If they want to hide, let them.
6. Consider a "sniffari": Instead of a structured walk, take them on a slow, meandering walk where they can sniff to their heart's content. Sniffing is a calming, brain-engaging activity for dogs.

For the "Off" Dog (Mild Symptoms Only)

If your dog has mild symptoms (e.g., one episode of soft stool, a single sneeze, a slight limp that improves with rest), you can try these steps. If symptoms are moderate or severe, skip to "When to Call Your Veterinarian."

1. For mild vomiting or diarrhea:

   • Withhold food for 12–24 hours (but always provide water). This gives the GI tract a chance to rest.
   • After the fast, offer small, frequent meals of a bland diet (boiled chicken and rice, or a prescription gastrointestinal diet from your vet).
   • You can add a probiotic specifically for dogs (like FortiFlora or Proviable) to help restore healthy gut bacteria.
   • Do not give human medications like Pepto-Bismol or Imodium without explicit veterinary guidance. They can be toxic to dogs.

2. For mild coughing or sneezing (suspected kennel cough):

   • Isolate your dog from other pets to prevent spread. Kennel cough is highly contagious.
   • Use a harness instead of a collar for walks. Pressure on the neck can trigger coughing fits.
   • Run a humidifier or take your dog into a steamy bathroom (run a hot shower for 10 minutes) to help soothe their airways.
   • Avoid strenuous exercise and exposure to cold air.
   • Monitor their appetite and energy level. Most dogs with mild kennel cough will still eat and act fairly normal.

3. For a minor limp:

   • Rest is the best medicine. Confine your dog to a small area (like a crate or a room) for 24–48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing.
   • Apply a cold pack (wrapped in a towel) to the affected area for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times a day, if your dog will tolerate it.
   • Check the paw for any cuts, thorns, or foreign objects.
   • If the limp doesn't improve with rest, or if it gets worse, see your vet.

When to Call Your Veterinarian

These are "yellow-light" situations. Your dog isn't in immediate danger, but they need professional attention. Call your vet's office and describe the symptoms.

Call your veterinarian if:

• Vomiting or diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours, or if it's frequent (more than 3–4 episodes in a day).
• There is blood in the vomit or stool (even a small amount).
• Your dog is lethargic (won't get up, won't play, seems depressed) for more than 24 hours.
• Your dog refuses to eat or drink for more than 24 hours.
• Coughing is persistent (lasting more than a few days), productive (bringing up phlegm), or accompanied by a fever.
• Your dog has a fever (temperature above 102.5°F or 39.2°C). You can take their temperature rectally with a digital thermometer.
• Limping persists for more than 24–48 hours of rest.
• You notice any new lumps, bumps, or skin lesions that are red, swollen, or painful.
• Your dog is excessively scratching or shaking their head.
• Your dog seems painful (whining, panting, guarding a body part, or flinching when touched).
• Your dog's anxiety or clinginess is severe and doesn't improve after a few days at home.

What to tell your vet:

• Your dog's name, age, breed, and weight.
• The specific symptoms you're seeing and when they started.
• How long your dog was boarded and at which facility.
• Whether your dog has any pre-existing medical conditions.
• Whether your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations (especially Bordetella, distemper, and rabies).
• Any medications or supplements your dog is currently taking.

What Your Vet Will Do

If you bring your dog in for a post-boarding issue, here's what you can expect. The specific tests and treatments will depend on the symptoms.

The Veterinary Examination

Your vet will start with a thorough physical exam, which includes:

• Checking vital signs: Temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and gum color.
• Palpating the abdomen: To check for pain, masses, or fluid.
• Listening to the heart and lungs: To check for murmurs, arrhythmias, or abnormal lung sounds (like crackles or wheezes, which can indicate pneumonia).
• Examining the eyes, ears, and skin: Looking for signs of infection, inflammation, or parasites.
• Orthopedic exam: If your dog is limping, the vet will manipulate the joints and limbs to assess for pain, swelling, or instability.

Common Diagnostic Tests

Common Treatments

• For mild gastroenteritis (vomiting/diarrhea): Anti-nausea medication (like Cerenia), a bland diet, probiotics, and possibly subcutaneous fluids for mild dehydration.
• For kennel cough: Most cases are mild and self-limiting. Your vet may prescribe a cough suppressant (like hydrocodone or butorphanol) if the cough is severe and preventing rest. Antibiotics are only needed if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected. Doxycycline is a common first-line antibiotic for respiratory infections.
• For pneumonia: This is a more serious condition requiring aggressive treatment, including hospitalization, intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, nebulization, and broad-spectrum antibiotics.
• For parasites: Deworming medications (like fenbendazole or praziquantel) or specific antiparasitics (like metronidazole for giardia).
• For injuries: Rest, anti-inflammatory medications (like carprofen or meloxicam), and possibly pain medication. Severe injuries may require surgery.
• For anxiety: Your vet may recommend a behavior modification plan, a pheromone diffuser, or a short-term anti-anxiety medication (like trazodone or alprazolam) for future boarding stays.

Expected Costs

• Office visit: $50–$100
• Basic diagnostics (fecal + exam): $100–$200
• Advanced diagnostics (bloodwork, X-rays, PCR panels): $200–$600+
• Treatment for mild illness (medication + bland diet): $50–$150
• Treatment for moderate illness (fluids, injectable medications): $150–$400
• Hospitalization for pneumonia or severe illness: $1,000–$3,000+

A note on pet insurance: If you have pet insurance, most policies cover accidents and illnesses, including post-boarding issues. Check your policy for specifics on deductibles, co-pays, and coverage limits. Some policies also offer a "wellness" add-on that covers routine care like vaccinations and fecal tests.

Common Causes, A Deeper Look

Understanding why these issues happen can help you choose a better facility and prepare your dog more effectively.

1. Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), "Kennel Cough"

This is the most common health concern associated with boarding. It's not a single disease but a complex of viruses and bacteria that cause upper respiratory infections. The most common culprits include:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacterium)
• Canine parainfluenza virus
• Canine adenovirus type 2
• Canine influenza virus (H3N8 and H3N2 strains)
• Canine respiratory coronavirus
• Mycoplasma spp.

How it spreads: Through direct contact (sniffing, licking), airborne droplets (coughing, sneezing), and contaminated surfaces (bowls, toys, bedding, kennel runs). The incubation period is typically 2–10 days, so your dog may not show symptoms until after they come home.

Why it's so common in boarding: High-density housing, stress (which suppresses the immune system), and shared airspace create the perfect storm for transmission. Even the best facilities can't eliminate the risk entirely.

Prevention: The Bordetella vaccine (often given intranasally or orally) is the most important preventive. It's not 100% effective (like the human flu vaccine), but it significantly reduces the severity and duration of illness. The canine influenza vaccine is also recommended for dogs that board frequently, especially in areas where flu is circulating. Most facilities require both vaccines.

2. Stress-Induced Gastroenteritis

Stress is a major trigger for gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The stress of a new environment, separation from you, changes in routine, and the excitement of new playmates can all lead to:

• Stress colitis: Inflammation of the colon, causing soft stool, mucus, and sometimes small amounts of bright red blood.
• Vomiting: Often due to anxiety or eating too fast.
• Loss of appetite: Some dogs simply won't eat when they're stressed.

Why it happens: The gut-brain axis is real. Stress hormones like cortisol can alter gut motility, increase intestinal permeability, and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. This is why even healthy dogs can develop diarrhea after a stressful event.

Prevention: Gradual introduction to boarding (start with a half-day or full-day of daycare), bringing familiar items from home (bed, toys, a piece of your clothing), and using calming aids can all help reduce stress.

3. Parasites

Boarding facilities can be a source of intestinal parasites, especially if they have outdoor play areas where other dogs have defecated. Common culprits include:

• Giardia: A protozoan parasite that causes foul-smelling, watery diarrhea. It's highly contagious and can survive in the environment for weeks.
• Coccidia: Another protozoan that causes diarrhea, especially in puppies.
• Roundworms and hookworms: These are common in puppies and can be picked up from contaminated soil.

Prevention: A negative fecal test is usually required before boarding. Monthly heartworm preventives (like ivermectin or milbemycin oxime) also help control some intestinal parasites. A fecal test 2–4 weeks after boarding is a good idea, even if your dog seems fine.

4. Injuries

Play-related injuries are another risk. While most facilities supervise playgroups carefully, accidents can happen. Common injuries include:

• Sprains and strains: From running, jumping, and roughhousing.
• Lacerations: From sharp objects or bites.
• Paw pad injuries: From running on rough surfaces.
• Cruciate ligament tears: More common in predisposed breeds (Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers) and can be triggered by sudden twisting or turning.

Prevention: Choose a facility that separates dogs by size and play style. Ask about their supervision protocols and staff-to-dog ratios. A good facility will have a trained staff member monitoring playgroups at all times.

5. Anxiety and Behavioral Issues

For some dogs, boarding is a profoundly stressful experience. This is especially true for dogs with:

• Separation anxiety: They panic when separated from their owner.
• Fear of new environments: They are anxious in unfamiliar places.
• Poor socialization: They are not comfortable around other dogs or new people.
• Previous negative experiences: A bad boarding experience can create lasting fear.

Signs of severe anxiety in boarding:

• Excessive barking or howling
• Pacing or circling
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Destructive behavior (chewing on kennel bars, digging)
• Self-injury (licking or chewing paws raw)
• Aggression towards staff or other dogs

Prevention: Not all dogs are good candidates for traditional boarding. For anxious dogs, alternatives like in-home pet sitting, a live-in house sitter, or a small, home-based boarding facility with a low-stress environment may be better options.

How to Choose the Best Dog Boarding Facility

This is the most important decision you'll make. Here's a step-by-step guide to evaluating a facility.

Step 1: Do Your Research

• Ask for recommendations: Your veterinarian, dog trainer, groomer, and trusted friends are great sources.
• Read online reviews: Look at Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Pay attention to how the facility responds to negative reviews.
• Check for accreditation: Look for facilities that are accredited by the Pet Care Services Association (PCSA) or the International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPPSA) . This indicates they meet certain industry standards.

Step 2: Schedule a Tour

Never board your dog at a facility you haven't toured. A reputable facility will welcome your visit. If they refuse or make excuses, cross them off your list.

What to look for during your tour:

Step 3: Ask the Right Questions

Don't be shy. A good facility will be happy to answer all your questions.

Essential questions to ask:

1. "What are your vaccination requirements?" They should require proof of rabies, distemper/parvo (DHPP), and Bordetella. Canine influenza is also highly recommended.
2. "Do you require a negative fecal test?" Yes, they should.
3. "What is your policy on flea and tick prevention?" They should require all dogs to be on a monthly preventive.
4. "How do you handle medical emergencies?" They should have a written plan and a relationship with a nearby vet.
5. "What is your staff-to-dog ratio?" For playgroups, 1:10 is a good standard. For overnight care, there should be staff on-site or within earshot.
6. "How do you introduce new dogs to the group?" They should have a gradual, supervised introduction process.
7. "What is your policy on intact (unneutered/unspayed) dogs?" Many facilities have restrictions, especially for intact males over 6 months old.
8. "Can you administer medications?" If your dog needs medication, confirm they can give it correctly.
9. "What is your daily schedule?" How many potty breaks, play sessions, and feedings? Is there a quiet time?
10. "Can I bring my dog's own food?" Yes, to avoid dietary upset. They should store and feed it properly.
11. "What is your cancellation policy?" Understand the terms before you book.
12. "Do you have cameras I can view?" Some facilities offer live webcams so you can check in on your dog.

Step 4: Trust Your Gut

After your tour, ask yourself: Did this feel like a place I would want to stay? If something feels off, it probably is. Keep looking.

How to Prepare Your Dog for Boarding

Preparation is key to a successful boarding experience. Start at least 2–4 weeks before your trip.

1. Update Vaccinations and Health Records

• Schedule a vet visit: Make sure all core vaccines (rabies, DHPP) are up-to-date.
• Get the Bordetella vaccine: This is usually given intranasally or orally and needs to be given at least 5–7 days before boarding to be effective. Some facilities require it every 6 months.
• Consider the canine influenza vaccine: Especially if you live in an area where it's common or if your dog will be in close contact with many other dogs.
• Get a negative fecal test: Most facilities require this within the last 6–12 months.
• Request a health certificate: Some facilities may ask for a letter from your vet confirming your dog is healthy and fit for boarding.

2. Pack a "Boarding Bag"

Bringing familiar items can significantly reduce your dog's stress. Pack:

• Their regular food: Pre-portion it in labeled bags for each meal. This prevents dietary upset.
• A favorite bed or blanket: Something that smells like home.
• A few safe toys: Avoid toys that can be easily destroyed or swallowed (like stuffed animals with squeakers). Durable rubber toys (like Kongs) are great.
• A piece of your clothing: An old t-shirt or pillowcase that smells like you can be incredibly comforting.
• Any medications: Clearly labeled with your dog's name, the medication name, dosage, and administration instructions.
• Your dog's leash and collar: With ID tags that have your current phone number.

3. Do a Trial Run

If your dog has never been boarded before, or if they have a history of anxiety, consider a trial run.

• Start with daycare: A few half-day or full-day daycare visits can help your dog get used to the environment, the staff, and the other dogs.
• Try a single overnight: Before a long trip, book a single night to see how your dog does. This is a low-stakes way to identify any issues.

4. Manage Your Own Anxiety

Dogs are incredibly attuned to our emotions. If you're anxious about leaving them, they will pick up on it.

• Stay calm and positive when you drop them off. Don't make a big, emotional goodbye.
• Use a cheerful, matter-of-fact tone. Say something like, "Have fun! See you soon!" and then walk away.
• Don't linger. The longer you stay, the more anxious your dog will become.

Can Boarding Cause Anxiety in Dogs?

Yes, it absolutely can. For some dogs, the experience of being in a new environment, away from their family, and surrounded by unfamiliar dogs and people is inherently stressful. This is not a reflection on the quality of the facility, it's a reflection of your dog's individual temperament and history.

Why Some Dogs Get Anxious

• Separation anxiety: This is the most common cause. Dogs with separation anxiety panic when separated from their owner. Boarding is the ultimate separation.
• Lack of socialization: Dogs that weren't properly socialized as puppies may find the constant presence of other dogs overwhelming.
• Sensory overload: Boarding facilities can be loud, smelly, and chaotic. For a sensitive dog, this can be overwhelming.
• Loss of routine: Dogs are creatures of habit. Boarding disrupts their entire routine, when they eat, sleep, walk, and play.
• Previous negative experience: A bad boarding experience (e.g., being bullied by another dog, being handled roughly by staff) can create lasting fear.

Signs of Boarding-Related Anxiety

• At drop-off: Refusing to enter the facility, trembling, hiding, or trying to escape.
• During the stay: Excessive barking, pacing, refusal to eat, destructive behavior, or self-injury.
• At pick-up: Extreme excitement (jumping, whining, frantic tail wagging) or, conversely, a withdrawn, "shut-down" demeanor.
• After returning home: Clinginess, following you everywhere, whining, decreased appetite, or changes in sleep patterns.

How to Minimize Anxiety

• Choose the right facility: Look for a facility that offers a low-stress environment. Some facilities have "quiet rooms" for anxious dogs, or they offer one-on-one play sessions instead of group play.
• Do a trial run: As mentioned above, daycare and a single overnight can help desensitize your dog.
• Bring familiar items: Your dog's bed, toys, and a piece of your clothing can be incredibly comforting.
• Use calming aids: Talk to your vet about pheromone diffusers (Adaptil), calming supplements (L-theanine, Zylkene), or a Thundershirt (a pressure wrap that has a calming effect on some dogs).
• Consider medication: For dogs with severe anxiety, your vet may prescribe a short-term anti-anxiety medication (like trazodone or alprazolam) to be given during boarding. This is not a long-term solution, but it can make the experience tolerable for a dog that would otherwise be in extreme distress.
• Explore alternatives: If your dog truly cannot handle boarding, consider in-home pet sitting. A professional pet sitter can stay in your home and care for your dog in their familiar environment. This is often the least stressful option for anxious dogs.

Prevention: Long-Term Strategies

The goal is to make boarding a positive or, at the very least, a neutral experience for your dog. Here are long-term strategies to build resilience.

1. Socialization, Socialization, Socialization

The foundation of a well-adjusted dog is early and ongoing socialization. This means exposing your puppy (and adult dog) to a wide variety of people, places, sounds, and other dogs in a positive, controlled way.

• Puppy classes: Start as early as 8 weeks old (after first vaccines).
• Regular outings: Take your dog to pet-friendly stores, parks, and cafes.
• Playdates: Arrange supervised playdates with other friendly, vaccinated dogs.
• Daycare: Regular daycare (even once a week) can help your dog become comfortable in a group setting.

2. Build Independence

Teach your dog that it's okay to be alone.

• Crate training: A crate can be a safe, secure den for your dog. Practice short periods of crate time while you're home.
• Practice departures: Start with very short departures (1–2 minutes) and gradually increase the time. Don't make a big deal out of leaving or returning.
• Provide enrichment: Leave your dog with a stuffed Kong, a puzzle toy, or a safe chew when you leave. This creates a positive association with your departure.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy dog is a more resilient dog.

• Regular veterinary care: Annual checkups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention.
• Balanced diet: Feed a high-quality, age-appropriate diet.
• Regular exercise: Daily walks, runs, or play sessions to burn off energy.
• Mental stimulation: Training sessions, puzzle toys, and nose work games.

4. Choose the Right Facility for Your Dog's Personality

Not all facilities are created equal, and not all dogs thrive in the same environment.

• For social butterflies: A facility with large, supervised playgroups and plenty of activities is ideal.
• For shy or anxious dogs: A smaller, quieter facility with a low staff-to-dog ratio and a focus on individual attention is better.
• For senior dogs: A facility that offers a "senior suite" with softer bedding, more frequent potty breaks, and a calmer environment.
• For dogs with medical needs: A facility with a trained medical staff or a close relationship with a veterinary clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I look for in a dog boarding facility?

Look for cleanliness, good ventilation, secure fencing, adequate kennel sizes, and a knowledgeable, attentive staff. Ask about their vaccination requirements, emergency protocols, staff-to-dog ratios, and daily schedule. Always tour the facility before booking. A good facility will be transparent and happy to answer your questions.

2. How do I prepare my dog for their first boarding experience?

Start with a vet visit to ensure all vaccines are up-to-date (especially Bordetella) and get a negative fecal test. Do a trial run with a few daycare visits or a single overnight. Pack familiar items like their bed, toys, and food. Stay calm and positive at drop-off. For anxious dogs, talk to your vet about calming aids or short-term medication.

3. Can boarding cause anxiety in dogs?

Yes, for some dogs. The stress of a new environment, separation from their owner, and the presence of unfamiliar dogs can trigger anxiety, especially in dogs with separation anxiety or poor socialization. Signs include excessive barking, pacing, refusal to eat, and clinginess after returning home. Choosing a low-stress facility, doing a trial run, and bringing familiar items can help.

4. What is kennel cough and how can I prevent it?

Kennel cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex) is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. It causes a dry, hacking cough. Prevention includes keeping your dog's Bordetella and canine influenza vaccines up-to-date. Even with vaccination, there is still a risk, but the illness is usually milder.

5. Should I bring my dog's own food to boarding?

Yes, absolutely. Bringing your dog's regular food prevents dietary upset, which is a common cause of vomiting and diarrhea during boarding. Pre-portion the food in labeled bags for each meal. If your dog is on a prescription diet, make sure the facility understands how to feed it.

6. What if my dog needs medication while boarding?

Most reputable facilities can administer medications, but you need to confirm this in advance. Bring all medications in their original, labeled bottles. Provide clear, written instructions for dosage and administration. Some facilities may charge an additional fee for medication administration.

7. How much does dog boarding typically cost?

Costs vary widely depending on location, facility type, and services offered. Basic boarding can range from $25–$50 per night. Luxury boarding with suites, webcams, and extra playtime can cost $50–$100+ per night. Additional services like medication administration, grooming, or training sessions will add to the cost.

8. What are the alternatives to traditional dog boarding?

If your dog is not a good candidate for boarding, consider:

• In-home pet sitting: A professional sitter stays in your home.
• Live-in house sitter: Someone stays in your home while you're away.
• Pet sitting at the sitter's home: Your dog stays in a private home with a small number of other dogs.
• Boarding at your veterinarian's office: Some vet clinics offer boarding, which is ideal for dogs with medical needs.
• Boarding with a friend or family member: The most familiar option for your dog.

References

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9. Merck Veterinary Manual. (2023). Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex. Retrieved from merckvetmanual.com.
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11. Pet Care Services Association (PCSA). (2023). Accreditation Standards for Boarding Facilities. Retrieved from petcareservices.org.
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This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian for any health concerns regarding your pet.