Not every family trip is pet-friendly, and sometimes pets just do not enjoy travel, so you may be considering boarding your pet. However, before boarding your animal, there are some things you may want to check off your list and not save for the last minute.
Microchipping
This is something to think about for any pet. If your pet gets out, goes missing, or there is an accident, your pet can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal control, and your contact information will be available for them to contact you. Though your pet going missing is very unlikely, you may want to consider getting your animal microchipped before boarding.
Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention
Preventing parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms is important whether boarding your pet or not. However if you are not already taking these precautions it is a good idea to start prior to taking your pet to be boarded. Flea and tick prevention is valuable in case there are any other pets boarded who have fleas or ticks. Heartworm testing and prevention is to prevent your pet from getting heartworm if there happen to be any mosquitos while they are outside playing. You can never be too safe. Boarding facilities may also require these preventive measures as well as certain vaccines for your pet to be admitted.
Send Plenty of Their Favorite Things
Leaving your pet for any period of time can be hard on you and them. Sending their favorite items such as food, toys, and treats can make it just a little bit easier. Check with the boarding facility to see what is allowed. They may also advise you to bring food and water dishes, and if so, sending the ones they use at home is suggested to avoid too many changes at once.
Before boarding your pet, contact your veterinarian to make sure your pet is up to date on their shots this summer.
