What Are Dog Years What’s The Real Scoop
What Are Dog Years What’s The Real Scoop
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What to Bring to Dog Daycare
Most facilities require that you bring your dog with at least one leash. An extra is always a good idea, just in case the first gets lost or chewed on.
Many dogs take medication and/or supplements daily. Make sure you pack an appropriate number of doses, along with clear instructions detailing the amount and schedule.
First Aid Kit
Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and your dog may feel lonely away from home. Include a blanket or t-shirt with your scent to give them a reminder of you and help ease their separation anxiety.
Make sure to pack enough of your dog’s regular food for the duration of their stay. It’s helpful to use small plastic baggies with pre-measured meals labeled “breakfast,” “lunch,” and “dinner.”
If your dog requires medication or supplements, be sure to bring them along with written instructions on how to administer them. This will ensure that pet sitters are always following the proper dosage and schedule. Also, it’s important to note if your dog is on any type of allergy or seizure medication so that the staff are aware and prepared for potential emergencies.
Toys & Chews
While most kennels and daycares will have toys available for your dog, it’s always a good idea to bring your own. Look for toys that are durable and made of non-toxic materials. Also, choose chew toys that are appropriate for your dog’s size, age and chewing habits. For example, if your pet is a compulsive chewer, avoid plastic toys that can splinter. Instead, try Kong-type toys that can be stuffed with peanut butter, cheese or treats.
Also, choose long-lasting chews like rawhide or dental chews (such as Virbac C.E.T Enzymatic Hygiene Chews). These help remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth as they chew. The chews should be small enough to not pose a risk of choking or intestinal obstructions, and should be easy for your pet to digest.
Food & Treats
Just as parents wouldn’t send their children to school without a lunch and book bag, dogs should be prepared to go to daycare with the right supplies. This includes any food or treats your dog may need during their stay (if they follow a special diet) and medication, if needed.
Remember that high-value treats should be fed sparingly and accounted for in your pet’s daily calories. A few of their favorite toys or stuffed animals can be comforting and help with the transition to a new environment.
Be sure to bring your dog’s regular food, as abrupt changes in diet can lead to upset stomachs, gas and diarrhea. Labeling your dog’s meals in separate plastic bags can make feeding times easier for staff and also ensure that your pup receives the correct amount of food each day.
Cleaning Supplies
Most dog daycare and boarding facilities provide all the supplies your pet needs, but it's best to bring a couple of staple items. At a minimum, your pup will need a collar with ID tags and a leash for when they enter and exit the facility.
It's also a good idea to pack a blanket or bed that smells like home. This familiar scent can help comfort your pet and reduce anxiety during their stay.
Finally, make sure to bring any board and train dog trainers near me health and vaccination records that your daycare requires. Some facilities have different policies, and it's important to ask questions and take tours before choosing one for your pet. Look for red flags such as a dirty facility or staff members with inadequate training and knowledge of animal behavior.
Emergency Contacts
Make sure your facility is well-equipped to handle a disaster situation. This includes having a safe and secure building, the right care equipment, food and water bowls, leashes, toys, beds, and cleaning supplies. You also want to have a reliable pet care software system that lets you store vaccination records for each dog and notify owners when those records are approaching expiration.
Establish a local emergency contact with your boarding facility who can take in your dog in the event of an earthquake, tornado, hurricane, flooding, fire or other natural disaster. This person should have your regular veterinarian’s name and number, a way to get in touch with you, and keys to your house (or other means of guaranteeing access). The best emergency contacts are trusted family members or friends who live in the area.