What to Bring When Boarding Your Dog: A Complete Checklist
One of the most common questions we get asked from new dog boarding clients is “What do I need to bring when I drop my dog off for boarding?” It’s a great question—and a totally normal one. Leaving your dog in someone else’s care can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your dog’s first boarding experience. Our goal is to make drop-off as smooth and stress-free as possible for both you and your dog.
To help you feel prepared, we’ve put together a simple checklist of everything your dog will need during their boarding stay with us. Bringing the right items helps your dog stay comfortable, maintain their routine, and settle in more easily while they’re here.
What to Bring When Boarding Your Dog
1. Your Dog’s Food (If you are not using our in house food)
Please bring enough food for your dog’s entire boarding stay, plus a little extra just in case. Sticking to your dog’s regular diet helps prevent stomach upset and keeps them feeling their best. If your dog eats a special diet or has food sensitivities, be sure to let us know.
2. Medications or Supplements (If applicable)
If your dog takes any medications or supplements, please bring them in their original containers with clear instructions. This helps us ensure your dog receives the correct dosage at the right times.
3. Updated Vaccination Records (If not previously provided)
For the safety of all dogs in our care, we require up-to-date vaccination records prior to boarding. If you haven’t already sent them over, please bring a copy with you or have your veterinarian email them ahead of time.
4. Optional Items
You may bring your dog’s bowl, food scoop, collar, leash and harness, however, these items are not necessary as we provide these items for all of our boarding dogs. A favorite blanket, bed, or t-shirt that smells like home can go a long way in helping your dog feel relaxed in a new environment, especially when boarding for the first time. Familiar scents often reduce anxiety and make settling in easier. However, if you believe that your dog will destroy and/or eat this item, please leave it at home.
What You Can Leave at Home
To keep belongings from getting lost or damaged, we recommend leaving toys, clothing items, and treats at home unless otherwise discussed. We provide everything your dog needs during their stay.
If you’re ever unsure whether to bring something, don’t hesitate to ask—we’re happy to help. We are here to make your dog’s stay safe, comfortable, and enjoyable from the moment they arrive.
