Leaving Your Pet While Traveling

No one wants to leave their furry friends behind during vacations or emergency situations, but some incidences require them to stay home. Arranging pet care while you are away is the best way to ensure your pet gets the care they need. This can include animal boarding/sitting facilities, or even having a trusted caretaker watch over them while you are away.

Things To Think About Before Boarding/Kenneling

  • Research boarding pet care options near you, and decide what works best for you and your pet
  • Make sure to have correct documents including proof of vaccinations - most boarding facilities require an up to date rabies vaccination, a DHLPP/DHPP vaccination, and a bordetella vaccination (bordetella is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection mainly contracted in areas of high levels of canine interaction-vaccination may be required every 6 months to 1 year). Some facilities also require an negative fecal exam. Be sure to check with the individual facility you plan to use to see their specific requirements.
  • Make sure to pack a doggy bag with everything your pet may need (special diet, treats, medications, comfort items, etc...)
  • Create a care plan including: meal times(varies), medication dosage and instructions, common behavioral problems, a number to contact you in case of emergency, etc...
  • Inform your boarder of your primary vet in case of emergency 
  • Have a timeline for your boarder on when you are leaving and when you are returning from travel

Things to Think About If You Are Lining Up a Caretaker

  • Schedule a meeting with your entrusted caretaker (can be neighbor, family member, friend, or professional pet caregiver)
  • Create a care plan including: meal times, medication dosage and instructions, common behavioral problems, you primary veterinarian's contact number, a number to contact you in case of emergency, etc...
  •  Discuss with your caretaker care options
                     -i.e. overnight sitting, or drop-in sitting​
Please fill out our Medical Consent in Absence of Owner form, so we can set up a care plan in any case of emergency while you are away
                     -This applies for either boarding your pet, or having a caretaker