If you are boarding your dog and you are nervous about how they will like being in an unfamiliar environment, or how they may behave without you around, you'll want to make sure you and the dog are prepared. There are many ways to keep your dog safe and happy while they are at the boarding facility.

Taking the dog to the boarding facility in advance to make sure they get along with other dogs and so they can get familiar with the surroundings are ideal. Here are some other things to consider before you leave.

Update Vaccinations

Most kennels require that you are up to date with the dog's rabies and Bordetella vaccinations, but you should also have your dog vaccinated for the parvovirus as well. If your veterinarian has a shot for heartworm and fleas or tics, then get that vaccination too. This way you don't have to worry about your dog interacting with other dogs or being around other dogs' waste.

Take Familiar Items

You want the dog to feel like they're at home and you want them to feel comfortable. If they have a bed or blanket that they like to use at home or favorite toys or stuffed animals, then you want to pack these items for their trip while you're away. You may even want to leave them with a shirt or something that smells like you or smells like your family home.

Be Specific About Feeding

If you are diligent about measuring out your dog's food, or if you only allow them to have a specific brand of treats, make sure that the boarding company knows about it. Talk with the boarding company so they know how much food to give, and when to give treats. You may want to get prepackaged portions for the time they will be there. Make sure to pack an extra portion or two in case there is a problem.

Many of the boarding facilities today have cameras so you can see what your dog is doing while you are away and so you can see if they are getting satisfactory care. You want your dog to enjoy playing with other dogs and getting the attention of the staff while they are at the boarding facility, so make sure that they are prepared and that you have sent everything they could possibly need or want while you have to board them.

For kennel services, contact a company such as Club K9.