What to Expect the First Time You Board Your Pet

First-Time Boarding Is Normal to Stress About

If you are anxious about boarding your pet for the first time, you are not alone. Most pet owners feel the same way. The good news is that with proper preparation, the vast majority of pets adjust to boarding faster than their owners expect.

Before Drop-Off

In the days before your pet's first boarding stay:

• Visit the facility: If you have not already toured the facility, do it before booking. You should see where your pet will sleep, eat, and play. Ask about their daily routine, staff credentials, and emergency procedures.
• Update vaccinations: Most facilities require proof of current vaccinations, typically rabies, distemper, and bordetella (kennel cough). Schedule these at least two weeks before boarding to allow the vaccines to take effect.
• Pack comfort items: Many facilities allow you to bring a blanket, toy, or worn t-shirt that smells like home. These familiar items can significantly reduce anxiety.
• Do a trial night: If possible, book a single overnight stay before a longer trip. This lets your pet experience boarding in a low-stakes situation and gives you a sense of how they handle it.

Drop-Off Day

On the day itself:

• Keep it brief: A long, emotional goodbye increases your pet's anxiety. Hand over the leash, give a quick pat, and leave. The staff are experienced with transitions and will take good care of your pet.
• Bring written instructions: Even if you discussed everything over the phone, hand over a printed sheet with feeding schedule, medication instructions, emergency contacts, and behavioral notes.
• Expect some whining or confusion: Your pet may cry, bark, or look distressed as you leave. This is normal and almost always stops within 15 to 30 minutes once you are out of sight.

During the Stay

Here is what typically happens during a boarding stay:

• Day one: Your pet will likely be nervous, may eat less, and will spend time adjusting to the new environment. Staff will give extra attention during this transition period.
• Day two and beyond: Most pets settle into the routine by the second day. They begin eating normally, engaging with staff, and participating in group activities.
• Updates: Many facilities offer daily photo updates, webcam access, or text messages. If your facility offers this, take advantage of it for your own peace of mind.

Pickup Day

When you pick up your pet, expect them to be excited but possibly tired. Many pets sleep more than usual for a day or two after boarding, which is normal. Their digestive system may also take a day to return to normal due to the change in environment and potential stress.

If your pet shows signs of illness like coughing, vomiting, or lethargy lasting more than 48 hours after pickup, contact your vet. Kennel cough, while usually mild, is contagious in boarding environments and may need treatment.

It Gets Easier

The first time is always the hardest, for you and your pet. Most pets who board regularly learn to associate the facility with positive experiences. Many owners report that after a few stays, their dogs get excited when they pull into the facility's parking lot. The key is choosing a quality provider and preparing properly for that first experience.