Your upcoming trip has you concerned about leaving your pet at home? You're not alone. Pet ownership has reached record levels with approximately 70% of U.S. households owning pets in 2024 resulting in more families seeking dependable care options for their pets when traveling.

Professional pet boarding services have made significant improvements over time. The pet boarding industry expanded rapidly to satisfy demand and reached 169,905 businesses operating across the U.S. by 2025. Modern facilities like Wag Hotels dog boarding offer comfortable accommodations and expert care to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy while you're gone.

This guide will help you learn the necessary steps to ensure your pet has an easy and stress-free boarding experience.

Inside This Guide:

1. Why Choose Professional Pet Boarding

2. Preparing Your Pet for Their Stay

3. What to Pack and Bring Along

4. Choosing the Right Boarding Facility

5. Making Drop-off Day Easier

Why Choose Professional Pet Boarding

While trusting a friend or family member to look after your pet appears convenient, professional boarding brings essential advantages. As travel rates recover and nearly 38% of young pet owners travel often quality boarding facilities deliver peace of mind by:

• 24/7 supervised care from trained professionals

• Structured daily routines and activities

• Quick access to veterinary care if needed

• Safe, secure environment designed for pets

• Socialization opportunities with other animals

The pet boarding industry has grown substantially because demand for services continues to rise. The U.S. pet boarding market achieved $9.6 billion in 2024 and analysts predict its value will rise to $23.3 billion by 2035.

Preparing Your Pet for Their Stay

Pets require time to become accustomed to their new surroundings in the same way humans do. Begin your pet's boarding preparation several weeks ahead of their scheduled stay.

1. Update Vaccinations

• Schedule a vet check-up

• Ensure all required shots are current

• Get documentation of vaccinations

• Discuss any health concerns

2. Practice Short Separations

• Leave your pet alone for increasing periods

• Use positive reinforcement

• Guide them to see solitude as an enjoyable experience

• Consider short trial boarding stays

3. Maintain Regular Routines

• Keep feeding schedules consistent

• Continue normal exercise patterns

• Don't make major changes to their schedule

• Help them feel secure in their routine

4. Get Them Comfortable with Their Carrier

• Let them explore it freely

• Place treats and toys inside

• Make it a positive space

• Use it for short car rides

What to Pack and Bring Along

When you pack everything correctly your pet will feel relaxed throughout their boarding experience. Develop a list of necessary items to bring along with your pet.

1. Food and Treats

• Their regular food in sealed containers

• Portion sizes clearly marked

• Favorite treats for comfort

• Any dietary supplements they take

2. Comfort Items

• Their favorite bed or blanket

• Familiar toys they love

• An unwashed shirt with your scent

• Their regular food and water bowls

3. Medical Information

• Current vaccination records

• List of medications and dosages

• Emergency contact numbers

• Veterinarian's information

• Any special care instructions

4. Identification

• Updated ID tags

• Recent photo

• Microchip information

• Collar and leash

Choosing the Right Boarding Facility

Research and planning are needed to find the best boarding facility. Consider these factors when making your choice:

1. Facility Features

• Clean and well-maintained spaces

• Proper ventilation and temperature control

• Secure outdoor areas

• Separate spaces for different pets

• Comfortable sleeping arrangements

2. Staff Qualifications

• Trained and experienced caregivers

• 24/7 supervision

• Emergency response procedures

• Regular exercise and playtime schedules

• Daily health monitoring

3. Health and Safety Protocols

• Vaccination requirements

• Cleaning and sanitization procedures

• Emergency veterinary services

• Security measures

• Insurance coverage

4. Services and Amenities

• Exercise and playtime options

• Grooming services available

• Special care for seniors or special needs

• Webcam access for check-ins

• Regular updates and photos

Making Drop-off Day Easier

The moment you drop off your pet at the boarding facility can evoke emotional responses from both pet and owner. Here's how to make the transition smoother:

1. Arrive Prepared

• Bring all necessary items and paperwork

• Allow extra time for check-in

• Stay calm and positive

• Follow the facility's procedures

2. Keep Goodbyes Brief

• Avoid long, emotional farewells

• Stay upbeat and confident

• Give a quick pat and reassuring word

• Trust the professional staff

3. Communicate Clearly

• Share any recent changes in behavior

• Discuss feeding schedules and preferences

• Provide detailed emergency contacts

• Ask about update procedures

Understanding Common Boarding Concerns

Pet owners commonly experience worries when considering boarding options for their animals. We'll go through typical boarding concerns and solutions together:

1. Separation Anxiety

• Schedule trial stays to build confidence

• Provide familiar items from home

• Consider calming aids recommended by your vet

• Ask about facility's experience with anxious pets

2. Health and Safety

• Choose facilities with clear vaccination policies

• Ask about their emergency protocols

• Understand their monitoring procedures

• Request information about staff training

3. Quality of Care

• Visit during peak hours to observe operations

• Ask about daily routines and schedules

• Review their feeding and medication procedures

• Check their staff-to-pet ratio

4. Communication and Updates

• Discuss their update policy

• Ask about photo or video services

• Understand their contact procedures

• Know their preferred communication methods

Professional boarding facilities fully understand these concerns and they should be pleased to address them. The expanding pet care industry projected to grow to $23.3 billion by 2035 has resulted in enhanced standards and services throughout the field.

Planning for Your Pet's Return

Your pet's boarding experience remains successful well beyond the drop-off point. Follow these steps to guarantee your pet's seamless return home and transition.

1. Scheduling Pick-up

• Confirm pick-up time in advance

• Allow enough time for a proper check-out

• Review any notes about your pet's stay

• Ask about their behavior and adjustment

2. Home Preparation

• Stock up on their regular food

• Clean their bedding and living area

• Remove potential hazards

• Set up their familiar spaces

3. The First Few Days

• Keep their routine consistent

• Monitor their behavior and appetite

• Give them extra attention and reassurance

• Watch for any health concerns

4. Building a Long-term Relationship

• Provide feedback to the facility

• Keep their contact information handy

• Schedule future stays in advance

• Maintain vaccination records

Key Takeaways

The expansion of the pet boarding industry to include more than 169,905 businesses across the United States shows that quality pet care services are becoming increasingly sought-after by pet owners. A positive boarding experience for both you and your pet depends on proper preparation and selecting the appropriate facility. Remember to:

• Start preparation well in advance

• Choose a facility that matches your needs

• Pack all essential items and information

• Maintain clear communication

• Plan for a smooth return home

Staying Prepared Year-Round

A majority of pet owners benefit from keeping themselves ready for boarding at any time during the year. Make sure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date while keeping your boarding essentials stored where you can easily reach them and ensure you keep a positive relationship with your selected boarding facility. Your thorough preparation enables you to manage both scheduled travels and any unforeseen circumstances that call for boarding services.