Summer Boarding Checklist: How to Prepare Your Pet for a Stress-Free Stay
Summer is prime time for getting away. Beach trips, family reunions, a long weekend somewhere with no agenda at all. And while you deserve every minute of it, there is often one question tugging at the back of your mind before you go. What about your best friend?
Here is the reassuring truth. A great boarding stay is not just safe, it can be something your pet genuinely enjoys. New friends, plenty of play, and a whole team dedicated to their comfort. The secret to a smooth stay usually comes down to a little preparation on the front end. Use this checklist to set your pup or kitty up for their best summer vacation yet.
Book Early
Summer is our busiest season, and for good reason. Everyone is traveling, which means boarding spots fill up fast, especially around holiday weekends like the Fourth of July and Labor Day. As soon as your travel dates are set, reserve your pet's stay. Booking early gives you the best availability and one less thing to think about as your trip approaches.
Update Vaccinations and Records
Before any boarding stay, make sure your pet's vaccinations are current and that we have the records on file. This protects your pet and every other guest in our care. If anything is due for a refresh, schedule that visit with your vet a couple of weeks ahead so there is time for everything to process. A quick check now saves a scramble later.
Pack the Comforts of Home
A familiar scent can make a new place feel a whole lot friendlier. Consider packing:
- A small blanket or towel that smells like home
- A favorite toy
- Their regular food, portioned out by meal, to keep their tummy happy and routine intact
- Any medications, clearly labeled with instructions
- A worn t-shirt of yours, which can be surprisingly comforting for an anxious pet
Sticking to their usual food is especially important. A sudden diet change on top of a new environment can upset their stomach, so bringing their own is the kindest move. But if you forget the food don’t worry, we have an exclusive menu from Rick’s Dog Deli to feed even the pickiest eaters.
Write Down the Details
You know your pet better than anyone, so share what makes them tick. Let us know about their quirks, their favorite kind of play, any fears (thunderstorms are a big one in summer), how they behave around other animals, and any routines that help them feel settled. The more we know, the more personal and comfortable we can make their stay.
Keep Goodbyes Easy
Pets read our energy, so a long, emotional goodbye can actually make them more anxious. When it is time for drop-off, keep it upbeat and brief. A confident, cheerful send-off tells your pet that this is a good thing, not something to worry about. Trust us, they settle in faster that way, and you can hit the road with a lighter heart.
Plan for a Little Extra Pampering
Summer stays are a wonderful time to add a little something special. A grooming appointment timed for the end of their stay means you come home to a fresh, clean, great-smelling pup. A treat from our bakery makes their vacation feel like a real getaway. And a day of daycare mixed into a longer boarding stay keeps the energy up and the tail wagging.
Take a Breath and Enjoy Your Trip
Here is the part people forget. Once your pet is settled with a team that loves them, you are allowed to relax. That is the whole point. At The Ark, your best friend is not just boarded, they are cared for like the family member they are. Cozy accommodations, attentive people, and plenty of joy in every day.
So go enjoy your summer. We have got the most important part covered.
Traveling soon? Reserve your pet's summer stay at The Ark today and give yourself the gift of a worry-free getaway.
