How to Prepare Your Pet for Boarding or Pet Sitting

How to Prepare Your Pet for Boarding or Pet Sitting?

Traveling soon? Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, making sure your pet is prepared for boarding or staying with a sitter is one of the best ways to keep them happy, healthy, and stress free while you’re away.

Here’s a simple guide to help you get everything ready, from vaccines to packing lists to comfort items your pet will appreciate.

1. Make Sure Vaccines Are Up to Date

Most boarding facilities and many pet sitters require certain vaccinations to keep all pets safe. Even if your pet is staying at home, updated vaccines protect them from unexpected exposures.

Common requirements include:

For Dogs:

• Rabies
• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Parainfluenza)
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
• Canine Influenza (often required or strongly recommended)
• Leptospirosis (recommended depending on region)

For Cats:

• Rabies
• FVRCP (Feline Distemper)
• Feline Leukemia (recommended for outdoor cats or multi-cat households)

Pro Tip:

Schedule vaccine updates at least 1 to 2 weeks before travel to ensure full protection and avoid last-minute stress.

2. Don’t Forget Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention

Staying in a new environment or around unfamiliar pets increases exposure risk. Make sure your pet is fully protected with their monthly preventives.
This is especially important for boarding facilities, where pests or parasites can spread easily.

3. Pack the Essentials (and a Few Comfort Items)

A well-packed bag can make your pet’s stay much smoother and less stressful.

Pet Boarding Packing List:

• Food (enough for the entire stay plus extra)
• Treats
• Medications with clear instructions
• Harness, collar, and leash
• Favorite toys or chew items
• A blanket, shirt, or bed that smells like home
• Feeding instructions
• Emergency contact list
• Your veterinarian’s information

For Pet Sitting:

• A fully stocked food station
• Instructions for portion sizes and feeding times
• Litter or waste bags
• Cleaning supplies
• Clear medication notes
• Access instructions (doors, alarms, gates)
• Notes on your pet’s personality, habits, and quirks

4. Help Reduce Stress Before You Leave

Pets can sense a change in routine, especially when suitcases come out!

Try these tips to make the transition smoother:

• Keep your pet’s routine normal right up until you go.
• Let your boarding facility know if your pet has anxiety or special needs.
• Consider a calming aid, pheromone spray, or supplement if recommended by your veterinarian.
• For nervous pets, schedule a "trial day" at the boarding facility so they can adjust to the environment ahead of time.

5. Leave Clear Instructions and Emergency Info

Whether boarding or using a sitter, communication is key.

Provide:

• Your contact information
• Your travel itinerary
• A trusted emergency contact
• Your pet’s medical history
• Your veterinarian’s phone number
• Authorization to treat in an emergency

This ensures your pet gets quick care if something unexpected happens.

6. Create a Comfortable Environment

For boarding, familiar items from home help your pet feel secure.
For pet sitting, make sure your sitter knows:

• Where your pet likes to hide or nap
• What noises or situations trigger stress
• What your pet’s daily routine looks like
• How often to take dogs out or scoop litter for cats

Predictability brings comfort, even when you’re away.

7. Enjoy Your Trip Knowing Your Pet Is Prepared

By planning ahead, you can travel with peace of mind knowing your pet is safe, comfortable, and well cared for.

Whether they’re boarding at a trusted facility or snuggling at home with a sitter, these steps help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for everyone.