Boarding Your Dog: What You Need to Know

Boarding Your Dog: What You Need to Know

More responsible pet owners are choosing professional boarding kennels for their dogs instead of alternatives that can often be costly or even dangerous. However, some pet owners are still hesitant about boarding and may seek alternative arrangements that can lead to stressful or even tragic situations. If you’re unsure about boarding your dog, this guide will help you understand the safest and most responsible options for pet care while you’re away.

What Are the Alternatives?

Many pet owners consider house sitters, friends, or traveling with their pet as alternatives to boarding. However, each of these options comes with risks.

House Sitters

A well-intentioned house sitter may not have the training or experience to care for a dog properly. Potential issues include:

Accidental escapes – A door left open for just a second can result in a lost pet.
Lack of medical awareness – An inexperienced sitter may fail to recognize signs of illness, allowing a minor issue to become a serious health crisis.
Protective behavior – A normally friendly dog may see the sitter as a “stranger” and refuse to let them enter the home.

Leaving Your Dog With a Friend

Even if your dog knows the friend well, he may feel uneasy in an unfamiliar home and:

Try to escape in an attempt to find you.
React negatively to children or other pets, leading to potential injuries or conflicts.
End up in a reciprocal arrangement, where you’re later expected to take care of their pet—even if you’re not prepared for it.

Taking Your Dog on Vacation

Traveling with your dog may seem like the best option, but it comes with challenges:

Many hotels don’t allow dogs, or charge extra fees.
Travel stress can cause digestive upset and anxiety.
Lost dogs in unfamiliar places—some dogs wander off and are never found.
Heatstroke risk—leaving a dog in a car while sightseeing, shopping, or dining can be deadly.
Exposure to parasites and diseases—parks, campgrounds, and even relatives’ yards may expose dogs to heartworms, ticks, fleas, and other hazards.

Why a Boarding Kennel is the Best Option

A professional boarding kennel provides safety, structure, and expert care for your dog while you’re away. Choosing the right kennel is key to ensuring a positive experience.

What to Look for in a Boarding Facility

Visit the facility and meet the staff – Get to know the people caring for your pet.
Ask about accommodations – Are bedding and toys allowed? How will your dog be exercised?
Discuss dietary needs – Can you bring your own food? What meals does the facility provide?
Review safety measures – Are there secure enclosures to prevent escapes?
Talk about your dog’s needs – Discuss any concerns, from anxiety to medical conditions.

What Happens If Your Dog Needs Medical Attention?

Experienced kennel staff are trained to recognize early signs of illness and will seek veterinary care if necessary. Because boarding facilities closely monitor dogs, especially seniors, in a structured environment, they can often detect issues like urinary problems or dietary changes more quickly than an owner might at home.

However, boarding kennels cannot diagnose or prescribe treatment. If veterinary care is required, the pet owner is financially responsible. Be sure to discuss any medical conditions, medications, or special care before boarding your dog.

Hygiene & Grooming Considerations

Even in the cleanest boarding facilities, dogs may occasionally step in urine or feces and become dirty. Some kennels use strong disinfectants to maintain sanitation, and while effective, these products may leave a slight odor on your dog’s coat.

Many facilities offer bathing or grooming services before pick-up. If you’d like your dog to be bathed before going home, request this service when making your reservation.

Understanding the Kennel Environment

Boarding is a shared responsibility between the pet owner and the facility. Proper preparation can make the experience smoother for both your dog and the kennel staff.

Before Boarding Your Dog

Ensure all vaccinations are up to date, including the parainfluenza vaccine for protection against kennel cough.
Confirm your dog is parasite-free and hasn’t been exposed to contagious illnesses.
Avoid feeding your dog for at least 4 hours before boarding to minimize stomach upset.
Discuss any medical conditions or behavior quirks with the kennel staff.

Socializing & Preparing Your Dog for Boarding

If your dog has never boarded before, consider introducing them to the kennel environment with short stays before a long trip. Many facilities offer daycare options, which can help your dog become familiar with the routine.

Well-socialized dogs adjust more easily to new environments. Taking your dog to obedience classes, dog parks, and other social settings can make the boarding experience less stressful.

Common Stress Reactions in Boarded Dogs

Even in the best boarding facilities, some dogs experience mild stress. This is completely normal and usually temporary. Stress can cause:

Tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) – Exposure to new dogs may trigger mild respiratory symptoms.
Digestive upset – Excitement and stress may cause temporary diarrhea.
Changes in behavior – Some dogs are more active in a kennel, leading to weight loss, while others may eat more and gain weight.
Excessive energy or exhaustion – Dogs that play a lot during boarding may come home tired, while others may be overly excited upon return.

Some dogs may “carry” viruses for months without showing symptoms, only to develop signs of illness after experiencing stress. This is why a dog can appear healthy at drop-off but later show symptoms of a minor illness.

Bringing Your Dog Home After Boarding

After a stay at a boarding facility, your dog may be excited to see you. Some dogs act as if you’ve been gone for days—even if it’s only been a few hours!

Helping Your Dog Transition Back Home

Avoid overfeeding – Even if your dog acts hungry, wait at least 3 hours before feeding to prevent stomach upset.
Limit water intake – Give small amounts of water or ice cubes instead of letting them gulp large amounts at once.
Allow time to settle in – Some dogs may be excited or exhausted. Let them relax and adjust at their own pace.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a professional boarding kennel is the safest, most responsible way to ensure your dog is cared for while you’re away. Unlike leaving them with a friend or taking them on a trip, a dedicated boarding facility offers secure accommodations, trained caregivers, and structured routines to keep your pet happy and healthy.

At Tomball Pet Resort, we provide a safe, comfortable, and loving environment for every guest. Whether your dog is staying for a night or an extended visit, our trained staff is here to ensure they receive the best care possible.

Have questions about boarding your dog? Contact us today to learn more about our accommodations!