Boarding
What to Pack for Your Dog's First Boarding Stay
A good boarding bag is less about bringing the whole house and more about making routines easy to follow. Clear labels and accurate notes are worth more than ten favourite toys.
Pack their usual food
Sudden food changes can upset an already unfamiliar week. Pack enough of your dog's normal food for the stay, plus a little extra in case plans change. Label portions and explain preparation clearly.
Medication needs detail
Keep medication in original packaging when possible. Provide the dose, timing, method and prescribing veterinarian's details. Confirm in advance that the boarding team can support the specific routine.
Bring one safe piece of home
A washable blanket or familiar, safe toy can carry a useful scent from home. Avoid irreplaceable keepsakes, fragile items and anything your dog may guard or destroy when unsettled.
Write the care notes people need
Include feeding, toilet patterns, sleep habits, triggers, calming cues, medical history, emergency contacts and what 'not quite themselves' looks like for your dog. Honest details help the team care well.
