Essential Packing Checklist for Your Pet’s Boarding Stay

Boarding your pet can sometimes bring anxiety especially to you as well as your pet. However, with the proper preparations, your pet is sure to enjoy their stay. By having the right items and giving clear directions, stress levels can decrease, making it safe and more enjoyable to your pet.

You can try TC Tails if you are looking for reliable, dependable and trustworthy pet boarding service. Overnights, daycare and grooming are some of the services TC Tails offers. TC Tails also has facilities and staff to make sure your pet will be comfortable and safe.

Choosing TC Tails means you can rest easy knowing your pet is in capable hands. This guide will provide you with a detailed checklist of items to pack for your pet’s boarding stay, along with essential tips and information to help you prepare.

Read More About TC Tails: Hosting Dog Boarding at Home with Other Pets

Benefits of Packing the Right Items

    • Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Familiar items can help your pet feel more comfortable and secure in a new environment.
    • Ensures Comfort: Providing appropriate bedding, toys, and grooming supplies contributes to your pet’s physical and emotional well-being.
    • Facilitates Care: Clear instructions and necessary supplies make it easier for the boarding facility staff to give your pet the best care.
    • Protects Your Pet’s Health: Packing essential medical items and accurate health information helps prevent potential health issues.

 

Ready to give your pet a top-notch boarding experience? 

Contact TC Tails today to schedule their stay and ensure they receive exceptional care!

checklist to pack things for pet boarding stay

1. Basic Essentials

Identification

Tags with your contact information: Make sure your pet’s collar or harness has tags displaying your name, phone number, and address.

Microchip details: Confirm that your pet is microchipped and that the microchip registry information is current.

Health Records

Vaccination records: Provide copies of your pet’s vaccination records, including those for rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.

Medication prescriptions: If your pet is on medication, bring the original prescriptions along with an adequate supply of the medication.

Comforting Items

Favorite Bed or Blanket: Familiar scents from home can help your pet feel more comfortable in a new environment.

Toys or Comfort Objects: Pack your pet’s favorite toys or comfort items to keep them entertained and relaxed.

Familiar Scent Items or Family Photos: A familiar scent, such as a piece of your clothing or a family photo, can provide extra comfort and help ease your pet’s stress.

2. Food and Feeding

Food

Pre-Packaged Meals or Kibble: Bring enough of your pet’s regular food to prevent any dietary changes that could cause digestive issues.

Measuring Cups or Scoops: Include the correct tools to measure your pet’s meals accurately.

Treats

Favorite treats or snacks: Pack your pet’s preferred treats to reward good behavior and provide a familiar taste of home.

Feeding Accessories

Food and Water Bowls: Bring your pet’s own bowls to maintain familiarity and avoid any risk of contamination.

Special Feeding Utensils: If your pet requires any special feeding tools, make sure to pack them.

Feeding Instructions

Written feeding instructions for the staff: Provide clear, detailed instructions outlining your pet’s feeding schedule, portion sizes, and any specific dietary needs.

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3. Grooming and Hygiene

Grooming Supplies

Brush or Comb: Pack the appropriate grooming tools suitable for your pet’s coat type.

Nail Clippers: If you trim your pet’s nails, bring nail clippers that you are comfortable using.

Hygiene Products

Shampoo or Grooming Wipes: Bring any specific grooming products your pet may need for regular baths or clean-ups.

Toothbrush and Toothpaste: If you brush your pet’s teeth, include a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically made for pets.

Poop Bags

Poop Bags: Essential for walks or outdoor bathroom needs.

De-shedding Tools

Shedding Management Tools: If your pet sheds a lot, bring de-shedding brushes or gloves to manage their coat.

Ear and Eye Care

Ear Cleaning Solution: Pack a gentle ear cleaning solution if your pet needs regular ear care.

Eye Wipes or Care Products: Include any necessary products if your pet has eye care requirements.

Don’t wait! Book your pet’s stay with TC Tails now and enjoy peace of mind knowing they are in expert hands.

4. Medical Needs

Medications

Prescription Medications: Bring the original prescriptions and an adequate supply of any medications your pet is taking.

Supplements or Vitamins: Pack any supplements or vitamins that are part of your pet’s routine.

First Aid Kit

Basic First Aid Supplies: Include a basic first aid kit to handle minor injuries or emergencies.

Special Medical Equipment: If your pet needs specific medical equipment, be sure to bring it.

Emergency Contacts

Vet Contact Information: Provide the boarding facility with your veterinarian’s contact details.

Emergency Backup Contact: Include contact information for a trusted friend or family member who can be reached if you are unavailable.

Read More About Guide to Pet Boarding Services – Types, Expectations and Tips

5. Comfort and Entertainment

Bedding and Blankets

Pet’s bed or blanket for familiar scent: Bringing your pet’s own bed or blanket with a familiar scent can provide comfort and a sense of security.

Toys

Favorite chew toys, balls, or interactive toys: Pack your pet’s favorite toys to keep them entertained during their stay.

Interactive Toys

Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys for mental stimulation: These toys provide mental stimulation and keep your pet engaged.

Comfort Items for Anxiety

Calming sprays or diffusers: If your pet experiences anxiety, consider bringing calming products like sprays or diffusers.

Soft toys or blankets for stress relief: Soft toys or blankets can help soothe and reduce stress for your pet.

6. Travel Accessories

Carrier or Crate

For Transportation and Comfort: A carrier or crate offers a safe, secure space for your pet during transport.

Crate Mat or Bedding: Include a comfortable mat or bedding to make the crate more cozy and familiar for your pet.

Leash and Collar/Harness

For walks and identification: Make sure your pet has a leash and collar or harness with proper identification tags.

Travel Water Bottle

Portable water dispenser: A travel water bottle is handy for keeping your pet hydrated during the journey.

Travel Documents

Copies of Vaccination Records and Special Instructions: Bring copies of your pet’s vaccination records and any specific care instructions for the boarding facility.

Give your pet the care they deserve!

 Contact TC Tails to book a stay and provide your furry friend with a safe, enjoyable boarding experience.

7. Special Considerations

Breed-Specific Needs

Any items specific to your pet’s breed or size: Pack any special items that cater to your pet’s breed or size, such as breed-specific toys or grooming tools.

Dietary Restrictions

Special dietary needs or allergies: If your pet has dietary restrictions or allergies, provide clear instructions and pack the appropriate food.

Seasonal Items

Weather-specific gear (e.g., jacket for cold weather, cooling mat for hot weather): Depending on the weather, include items like a jacket for cold weather or a cooling mat for hot temperatures.

Behavioral Items

Training aids or calming aids if your pet has specific behavioral needs: If your pet has specific behavioral needs, bring any necessary training tools or calming aids to support them during their stay.

8. Additional Tips

Labeling Items

Tagging items with your pet’s name: Label all your pet’s belongings with their name to avoid mix-ups at the boarding facility.

Checking with Boarding Facility

Confirming what is provided by the facility: Before packing, ask the boarding facility about the items they provide to avoid bringing unnecessary supplies.

Update Contact Information

Ensuring your contact details are up-to-date with the boarding facility: Make sure the boarding facility has your latest contact information.

Trial Run

A short stay or visit to get your pet accustomed: If your pet has never been to a boarding facility before, consider a short trial stay or visit to help them get accustomed to the environment.

Read More About Tips for Boarding a Dog with Separation Anxiety

Conclusion

Preparing for your pet’s boarding stay doesn’t have to be stressful. By packing the right items and providing clear instructions, you can ensure your furry friend has a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience. Familiar items like bedding, toys, and grooming supplies help reduce anxiety, while detailed feeding and medical instructions ensure the boarding staff can provide the best care possible. Remember to label your pet’s belongings, update your contact information, and consider a short trial stay if your pet is new to boarding.

Choosing the right boarding service is just as important as packing the right items. TC Tails offers reliable, professional care with a range of services, including overnight boarding, daycare, and more. Their experienced staff and welcoming facilities are designed to keep your pet happy and well-cared for during their stay.

Contact TC Tails today to book a stay for your pet and experience peace of mind with professional pet sitting services.

FAQs

How far in advance should I book a boarding stay for my pet at TC Tails?

It’s best to book as early as possible, especially during peak holiday seasons or weekends when spots fill up quickly. We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance to secure your pet’s stay.

Can I visit the boarding facility before booking a stay?

Yes, TC Tails encourages pet owners to schedule a visit to tour the facility. This helps you see the environment where your pet will stay and meet our staff, ensuring you feel confident in your decision.

What if my pet doesn’t get along with other animals?

TC Tails takes every pet’s personality and temperament into account. If your pet prefers not to interact with others, we can arrange individual playtime and ensure they have a comfortable space away from other animals.

Can I bring my pet’s raw or homemade diet?

Yes, you can bring any type of food your pet is accustomed to, including raw or homemade diets. Please ensure it is properly packaged and labeled, along with clear feeding instructions.

Will my pet get playtime and exercise during their stay?

Absolutely! At TC Tails, your pet will receive regular playtime, exercise, and attention. We cater to your pet’s needs with personalized schedules that include walks, play, and rest periods.

Are there any items that are not allowed to be packed for my pet?

We recommend avoiding packing items that are easily breakable, too small (choking hazards), or have sentimental value in case they get damaged. It’s also best to avoid bringing perishable food items that may spoil.

How can I stay updated on my pet’s well-being during their stay?

TC Tails offers regular updates via text, email, or phone calls. We can also provide photos and brief reports on how your pet is doing to give you peace of mind while you’re away.