When you have a dog, at some point you are going to need to find suitable accommodations for your beloved companion when you are away from home for an extended period. If you are a first-time dog owner and have never had to find kennel accommodations for a pet, it is imperative that you understand how to prepare your dog for a stay at a boarding facility. The following tips can help you prepare for checking your dog into a kennel.

Make Sure Your Dog is Vaccinated

Many pet facilities will require that you show proof of common vaccinations before you can leave your dog for a stay. Your dog should have up-to-date vaccines to prevent kennel cough (infectious canine tracheobronchitis) and rabies. In addition, make sure that the dog does not have worms or fleas.

If your dog has a condition that requires regular doses of prescription drugs, such as insulin, provide the kennel with enough medication for the duration of your pet's stay as well as detailed instructions on how to administer the medicine.

Inform the Kennel About Special Needs and Unusual Habits

If your dog has special needs, be sure to explain them to the kennel employees. For example, some dogs do not like to hang out with a lot of other canines and prefer quiet time if they are sensitive to noise.

Older dogs may need help getting up and down stairways and extra help due to incontinence issues.

Leave Comfort Items

In order to help your dog feel comfortable and safe during their time at the kennel, pack comfort items for them. It could be their favorite toy or bedding items.

Some kennels require that the items you leave are washable and will not pose a choking hazard if the dog begins to chew on them if they get nervous and scared while at the kennel.

Take a Visit to the Kennel Before Your Trip

If you have some free time in the weeks leading up to your trip, take your dog to the kennel for a visit. Ask the staff to give your pet a tour so your dog can become familiar with the facilities. This can help your dog settle in faster at the kennel and exhibit less stress when they are dropped off for their stay.

Another way to decrease your dog's stress is to take them to the kennel before you start packing for your trip instead of dropping them off on your way out of town. Dogs are intuitive creatures and if they sense something different is about to happen and that you will be leaving, they may display signs of unhappiness and anxiety. 

For more information, contact a pet boarding facility such as Club K9.