Boarding Your Pet? Think of this…

Choosing to board your pet is a big decision—and preparation makes all the difference. One often overlooked detail is air quality. Look for boarding facilities that use a MERV 9 filter or higher in their HVAC systems. These high-efficiency filters capture airborne pathogens, dander, and dust, significantly reducing the spread of respiratory illness between animals sharing the same space. It’s a small detail that speaks volumes about a facility’s commitment to your pet’s wellbeing.

Visit the Vet Before You Book

Before dropping your pet off at a boarding facility, schedule a veterinary wellness exam. This serves multiple purposes. First, it ensures your pet is healthy enough to board—if they’re fighting a hidden infection or coming down with something, exposure to other animals could make them sicker or spread illness to others. Second, it gives you the opportunity to update any vaccines and discuss preventive medications your pet may need.

Most reputable boarding facilities require proof of current vaccinations before accepting a pet. Even if your facility does not require it, your pet will benefit from being fully protected while in a group setting.

Vaccine Requirements for Boarding

The specific vaccines required by boarding facilities vary, but the following are typically expected:

  • Dogs: Rabies, DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Many facilities also require Canine Influenza (H3N2 and H3N8) vaccines, especially in Florida where canine influenza outbreaks have occurred.
  • Cats: Rabies and FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia). Some facilities may also recommend the FeLV (feline leukemia) vaccine for cats boarding in a multi-cat environment.

Be sure to ask your veterinarian if your pet’s vaccines are current or due for renewal before your boarding dates. Vaccines given too close to boarding may not have had time to build immunity, so planning ahead is important.

What to Pack for Your Pet

Thoughtful packing can make a big difference in how comfortable your pet feels during their stay. Consider bringing:

  • Their regular food: Switching foods suddenly can cause digestive upset. Bring enough of your pet’s usual diet, clearly labeled with feeding instructions.
  • A familiar item: A blanket or unwashed piece of your clothing can provide comfort through familiar scent.
  • Medications: Clearly labeled with your pet’s name, dose, and schedule. Include written instructions and contact information for your veterinarian.
  • Medical records or vaccination proof: Even if you’ve submitted these in advance, having a copy can prevent delays at check-in.
  • A favorite toy: Something durable and safe that they associate with positive experiences at home.

Avoid packing items of sentimental or significant monetary value, as these can be lost or damaged.

Managing Separation Anxiety

Some pets—particularly dogs—experience real distress when separated from their owners. Signs of separation anxiety in the boarding context may include refusal to eat, excessive vocalization, destructive behavior, or withdrawal. If your pet has a history of anxiety, talk to your veterinarian before boarding.

Options your vet may discuss include:

  • Calming supplements: Products containing ingredients like L-theanine, melatonin, or colostrum may help take the edge off mild anxiety.
  • Pheromone products: Adaptil (for dogs) and Feliway (for cats) are synthetic pheromones that mimic natural calming signals.
  • Prescription anti-anxiety medications: For pets with significant anxiety, short-term medications may be appropriate and can make the boarding experience much less stressful.

Practice runs can also help. If possible, bring your pet for a day-visit or short overnight stay before a longer absence. This lets them experience the facility while it’s lower-stakes, and helps them learn that you always come back.

Choosing a Quality Boarding Facility

Not all boarding facilities are equal. When evaluating options, look for:

  • Cleanliness: The facility should smell clean and look well-maintained. Floors, kennels, and common areas should be sanitized regularly.
  • Staff-to-pet ratio: There should be enough staff to provide individual attention and quickly notice if a pet is unwell.
  • Separate areas: Dogs and cats should be housed in separate, secure areas. High-energy and shy animals should not be mixed.
  • Air quality: Ask about their HVAC filtration system. MERV 9 or higher is a good sign.
  • Supervision: Overnight supervision is a significant safety advantage over facilities that leave animals unattended from evening to morning.
  • Veterinary access: Ask how they handle medical emergencies. Do they have a relationship with a local veterinarian? Can they reach your vet if needed?

A good boarding facility will welcome a tour before you commit. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s okay to keep looking.

At Dunedin Animal Medical Center, located in beautiful Dunedin, FL and proudly serving all of Pinellas County, our compassionate veterinary team is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care for your pet. Whether you have questions, need a wellness exam, or are dealing with a health concern, we’re here to help. Visit us online at dunedinamc.com or call us at (727) 738-2273 to schedule an appointment today.