The holidays are here! While this is truly the most wonderful time of year, gift-giving, cooking, parties, and travel can lead to some stress.

Travel may be incredibly challenging for pet owners because as much we love our fur babies, some situations require they be left behind. Finding a safe yet fun place for your companion to stay in your absence can be difficult.

So, before you begin to stress more in your quest to find the perfect and safe place for your pet - relax! We've got the seven things you need to know before boarding your pet and how you make it a positive experience for you both.

Research the Facility

Before a href="https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/dog-boarding-tips-for-boarding-your-dog/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">boarding your pet, call the facilities and find out how long they have been in business. Ask other essential questions that will leave you feeling satisfied when you drop your pet. Check in with friends and neighbors who have pets and ask where they have boarded in the past and their experience.

Plan to tour the kennel before scheduling any boarding. While there, take notice of smell, cleanliness, location, and the outdoor area where they will be walked. Most importantly, take the time to really look and see if the pets and people there appear to be happy!

Determine Any Requirements Ahead of Time

Most kennels require animals to have specific vaccinations. Find out what they require and what records are needed.

Find out if you need to supply the food or if they will be providing them. Many pets have a favorite blanket or toy that will remind them of home, so be sure to ask if you can leave it. Be sure to ask these questions and plan ahead, so you don't run into any last-minute issues before you get on the road.

Gather Important Documentation

In addition to any vaccine requirements, be sure to provide any other important information that will make your pet more comfortable and leave you feeling secure.

• Leave instructions on how to proceed in case of an emergency. If would like your pet seen by a certain veterinarian, leave their contact information as well as a credit card and authorization for any emergency care.
• Obtain a copy of your pet's medical record from your vet for the border. This record should contain any medications, diagnosed conditions, and problems. Inform them of any behavioral irregularities such as aggressive behavior toward other animals.
• Also, indicate all special instructions you have before leaving your pet. This includes medication information and dietary restrictions. Keep the instructions as simple as possible.

Feeding Instructions

After talking with the kennel about the provisions, consider taking your own food and requesting they only use that. Sometimes when fed other foods and treats, pets can often develop gastrointestinal issues.

Your pet is already in a new atmosphere with you, which can be stressful enough, so avoiding an unnecessary diet change is best for your pet's well-being.

Get the Know the Staff

Find out about the staff consistency. Ask if the same person will be tending to your pet each day. It is also important to know if that person is professionally trained or a kid just trying to make some extra money before college. While touring the kennel, look to see if the staff seems to be happy, competent, and enjoying their work.

Conduct a Test Run

If you've taken a tour of a facility that you like but are still concerned about how your pet might do there, consider doing a test run.

Take your pet for a day of daycare or board them overnight to see how it goes. It'll be worth the time and cost to do a test run so you can enjoy your trip knowing that your pet will be content!

Carolina Beach Animal Hospital

Don't forget that our new facility at our College Road location provides boarding services all year long. We offer boarding for both dogs and cats. Separate dog and cat wards are maintained to keep your furry friends relaxed. We understand that pets are like our children at College Road. We feed, nurture, and lavish them with much-needed attention.

Our highly qualified kennel attendants do the same when you can't be there. We provide tender loving care (such as brushing and cuddling) and supervised outdoor playtime to keep them happy and active. We are a flea-free facility, so your pet will be provided with a complimentary Capstar tablet on the day of arrival. Contact us today to find out more!

Often the most challenging part of leaving town is trusting someone else to take care of your pet. Taking the time to find a boarding option you trust and one your dog enjoys will make all the difference and leave you feeling relaxed this holiday season.