Preparing Your Dog

Photo: Lucy
Boarding is all we do, so we do it really well. While you are away for business or pleasure, your dog can have a safe and happy get-away too! We want you both to have the best kennelling experience possible
If you’re new to kennelling, yet uncertain about the process, here’s a handy outline to help make it easy for you and your furry companion.
Preparing
Kennels are often full during weekends and holiday seasons, so it’s best to plan your dog’s stay when you’re making the rest of your vacation plans. The first time you board, you’ll provide your contact information and a complete profile for your pet. For each visit, you’ll provide updates about your pet’s health, arrival and departure dates and contact information for the time you’ll be away, and let us know if you want transportation service on either end of the trip.
If you’ve never used a kennel before and your first trip is a lengthy one, consider doing a trial run. Book your dog for a one-night stay so both of you can get familiar with the process. Ensure that your dog’s vaccinations are current, but not done just before the stay. Like people, some dogs feel punk after getting a vaccination, so it’s best to let your dog hang out in the comfort of your home so they can sleep it off.
Vaccinations for Parvo, Rabies and Distemper must be current, with no vaccine being given within the two weeks prior to boarding. Bordatella is optional. You and your vet can make the decision as to whether you want to get that one. We accept veterinary-endorsed titter counts in place of annual vaccinations.
24-hours before
Please put your name on all of your dog's belongings, then pack your doggie bag. Here are some things to consider sending along:
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A leash and collar to be used during transportation.
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We provide food. If your pet is on a special diet, package their own food in serving-sized portions in containers clearly labelled with your dog’s name.
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If your dog is on any medications or supplements, provide them in their original packaging with clearly marked instructions.
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If your dog uses their crate at home, send it along, however, if they don’t use it at home, don’t bother.
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We provide Kuranda beds. If you want to send a blanket or towel that smells like home, the best ones have no stuffing and are easy to launder.
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Toys are optional. For short stays, most dogs don’t play with toys; however, if they’re on vacation for a week or more many do. We don’t recommend sending out their favourite or expensive toys as some times they get damaged or lost.
Please don't send bowls as they can get mixed up with ours during cleaning, or your dog's favourite can't-live-without-it toy in case it gets lost or burried during a snow storm.
Please don't send your best stuff out. We do not guarantee that luggage will be returned in good shape or at all.
Limit your pet’s food so he doesn’t get car sick on the way out to the kennel. Having a bunch of special treats just before the car ride will only make him vomit. That’s not a nice way to start a holiday.
Saying good-bye
If you cried and made a scene when you sent your child to school for their first day of kindergarten, they’d likely panic about going to school. Your dog will have the same reaction to kennelling if you make a big deal about it. Kennels can be fun. Dogs like hanging out with other dogs. I repeat. Kennels can be fun. Dogs like hanging out with other dogs. If you panic and make your dog feel like it’s bad, he’ll think it’s bad. If you think about it as being your dog’s spa holiday, your dog will have a great time.





