Your Dog’s Holiday! A Stress-Free Guide to Choosing the Best Dog Boarding ✈️🐶

 

Travelling is exciting, but leaving your beloved dog (apna kutta) behind can bring on serious guilt and worry (chinta). Thankfully, dog boarding facilities are now excellent options, offering your pet a safe, fun “doggy holiday” while you enjoy your trip.

Here is your step-by-step guide to finding the right carers and making the process smooth for everyone.

 

Phase 1: Choosing Your Dog’s Temporary Home 🏠

 

Finding the right place is like finding a trusted relative to leave your child with—you need complete bharosa (trust).

1. Do Your Homework (Research): Start by looking for local boarding facilities. Don’t just rely on pretty websites! Check online reviews (Google, social media) for honest feedback from other pet parents.
2. Go and See It! (Visit in Person): This is the most crucial step. Schedule a visit (an inspection!). Check the following:
   • Cleanliness: Does the place smell fresh and clean?
   • Safety: Are the enclosures secure? Are there safe play areas?
   • Staff: Are the people friendly? Do they look genuinely compassionate, and do they seem organised?
3. Know the Staff: Experienced staff are essential. These are your dog’s Dost aur Dekhbhal Karne Wale (friends and carers). Ask them about their training and how they handle emergencies or anxious dogs.
4. Match the Vibe: If your dog is quiet and elderly, don’t pick a facility that only caters to young, high-energy pups. Find a place that matches your dog’s personality.

 

Phase 2: Getting Your Dog Ready (Taiyaari) 🎒

 

A little preparation goes a long way in reducing stress for your dog (and you!).

1. Health First (Vaccinations): Make absolutely sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date (especially Parvo, Rabies, and often Kennel Cough). The facility will need to see the papers (kagaz).
2. Pack a Comfort Kit: Don’t change their routine suddenly. Pack:
   • Their Regular Food: Changing food can cause a stomach upset.
   • Their Favourite Toy/Bed: A familiar smell provides huge comfort.
   • Any Medications: Provide clear, written instructions on dosage and timing.
3. The Trial Run (Chhota Stay): If possible, book a short daycare visit or an overnight trial stay a week before your actual trip. This allows your dog to realise, “Okay, Mum/Dad leaves, but they always come back.” It makes the longer stay much easier.
4. Detailed Instructions: Write down everything! Feeding schedule, exercise routine, medication, and any quirky behaviour (like getting scared during loud noises like firecrackers or thunderstorms).

 

Phase 3: During Your Trip & Coming Home ❤️

 

1. Stay Connected (But Don’t Obsess!): It’s okay to ask the facility for updates or photos once in a while. This eases your mind. Remember, you chose a reputable place—trust them to do their job and focus on enjoying your time off.
2. Emergency Details: Make sure the facility has your international number and the number of a local emergency contact (a relative or close friend) who can make decisions if needed.
3. The Grand Reunion: When you get back, keep the homecoming calm and loving. Spend quality time together, offer cuddles and play, and reassure them that you are back to stay. A little extra pyaar is the best medicine!
4. Give Feedback: Share your experience with the boarding facility. Whether good or bad, your honest feedback helps them (and future pet owners) ensure better care.