What to Pack for Dog Boarding: A Practical Checklist
Packing the right things for a dog boarding stay helps your dog settle faster and makes the operator's job easier. Most kennels and home boarders will have a checklist, but here is a comprehensive guide to what to bring, what to label, and what to leave at home.
Documents you must bring
Vaccination record: your dog's vaccination card or digital certificate. Emergency contact details: your own number, a backup contact, and your vet's number. Medication with written instructions if your dog is on any treatment.
Food and feeding
Bring enough of your dog's usual food for the entire stay, plus a day's extra in case of delays. Sudden diet changes can cause digestive upset — many kennels prefer you to supply food rather than switch to their own. Label all food containers with your dog's name.
Bedding and comfort items
A familiar blanket or bed that carries your scent can help an anxious dog settle. A favourite toy (check it is safe to leave unsupervised). Most operators request you avoid expensive or irreplaceable items.
What to leave at home
Expensive toys or items of sentimental value. Chews or rawhide unless the operator has confirmed they allow these. Anything that requires close monitoring.
Labelling everything
Label every item with your dog's name. In a busy kennel, bowls, leads, and blankets can get mixed up. A luggage tag on your dog's carrier and waterproof labels on bowls are worth the small effort.