Preparing your dog for their first boarding stay is one of the best things you can do to help them feel calm, settled, and confident. Whether your dog is outgoing, nervous, or somewhere in between, a little preparation goes a long way in making their first visit a positive experience.
1. Start with a Meet & Greet
A Meet & Greet is the perfect way for your dog to get familiar with me, the house, and the environment before their stay. They can explore the garden, sniff around the rooms, and meet Kane and Axel at their own pace.It also gives us a chance to chat about your dog’s personality, routines, likes, dislikes, and anything that helps them feel comfortable. They will also have to meet any other dogs that will be boarding at the same time as your dog/s.
2. Bring Something That Smells Like Home
Dogs find comfort in familiar scents, so bringing a blanket, their bed, or even a worn t‑shirt from you can really help them settle and feel secure during their stay. We usually ask owners not to send personal toys, as some dogs can become possessive over them, and we wouldn’t want the responsibility of replacing a favourite. Plus, we have more than enough toys here to keep everyone happy. However, if you feel your dog would settle better with a favourite toy, that’s absolutely fin, just let us know. If it’s something that genuinely helps them feel safe and relaxed, we’re more than happy to allow it for their first stay.
3. Keep Their Routine Consistent
If your dog has a feeding schedule, bedtime routine, or specific habits, let me know. Keeping things familiar helps reduce anxiety and makes their stay feel more like home.
4. Practice Short Separations
If your dog hasn’t spent much time away from you, try short separations in the days leading up to their stay. It helps build confidence and reassures them that you always come back.
5. Pack Their Essentials
- Their usual food and feed routines and times
- Treats they love
- Lead and harness
- Medication (if needed)
- Their bed
- Any behaviour notes or quirks
6. Share Their Personality
Every dog is differen, some are cuddly, some are energetic, some are nervous, and some are independent. Let me know what makes your dog them, so I can make their stay as enjoyable and stress‑free as possible.
7. Trust the Process
It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious when leaving your dog for the first time. But remember, they’re staying in a calm, loving home, not a kennel. They’ll have company, routine, affection, and plenty of reassurance.
You’ll receive updates, photos, and messages so you know exactly how they’re getting on.
A Happy First Stay Starts with Preparation
With a little planning and a gentle introduction, your dog’s first boarding stay can be a positive, confidence‑building experience. My goal is always to make every dog feel safe, relaxed, and loved, just like they do at home.