After more than 20 years of caring for dogs of every size, breed, and temperament here at Animal Friends Pampered Paws, we’ve seen it all—from perfectly prepped pups to last-minute drop-offs with nothing but a leash. We understand that preparing for your dog’s boarding stay can be just as emotional for you as it is logistically tricky. Whether it’s their first overnight stay or they’re seasoned guests, packing the right essentials makes a world of difference in helping them settle in, feel comfortable, and stay safe while you’re away. To ensure a seamless experience, it’s important to know what to pack for your dog’s boarding stay.
Each dog is different, and so is every boarding facility. At AF Pampered Paws, we encourage pet parents to think of their dog’s stay as more than just a place to sleep. We offer everything from playgroup time to personalized nature walks and even pool sessions for our Water Dogs. Knowing what to pack for your dog’s boarding stay can help us deliver the best experience possible for your pup.
Comfort Starts with the Familiar
Think of your dog’s senses. Their noses, ears, and eyes are constantly processing new stimuli, and boarding introduces them to a world of unfamiliar sounds, smells, and routines. Bringing a piece of home along with them can have a calming effect. A favorite blanket, a well-worn toy, or even a recently worn T-shirt of yours (yes, seriously) can help ease their transition.
Many pet parents worry about separation anxiety, especially for dogs who are homebodies or have never stayed overnight away from family. Something that smells like home offers reassurance. We see it all the time: the moment a pup curls up with their familiar bedding or clutches a beloved plush toy, their tail starts wagging a little faster.
Just make sure the items you bring are washable and not irreplaceable. Dogs can become more excitable in new environments, and toys that are usually ignored might suddenly become shredded. We do our best to return all items in good condition, but we always prioritize your dog’s safety first.
Food: Keeping Their Diet Consistent
Dietary consistency is one of the most important things you can provide during your dog’s stay. Sudden food changes can lead to stomach upset or even diarrhea, which isn’t fun for your pup or our caregivers. That’s why we recommend bringing enough of your dog’s current food to last through their entire stay, plus a little extra just in case plans change.
If your dog eats dry kibble, portioning meals into resealable bags per day makes feeding times quick and accurate. For wet or raw diets, be sure to pack in sealed, labeled containers with any necessary instructions. Let us know if your dog needs food warmed, mixed, or has preferences about eating times—we honor special routines wherever possible.
Also, include any treats your dog is used to, particularly if they have allergies or are on a restricted diet. Treat time is a great way to build trust, reward good behavior, and make your dog feel cared for. If your dog is staying with us under a special package like our City Slicker (perfect for energetic dogs who love playgroups and a full social schedule), their daily treats may coincide with activity time, so it’s good for us to know what they love most.
Medications and Supplements
If your dog takes any medications or supplements, packing them properly and providing detailed instructions is non-negotiable. Always label containers clearly with your dog’s name, the name of the medication, dosage, and timing. Include any tips that make administering easier, like hiding pills in cheese or using pill pockets. We appreciate those insider tricks—they go a long way.
We store medications safely and administer them with precision, but the more you tell us about your dog’s health history, the better we can care for them. It’s also helpful to include your veterinarian’s contact information in case we need to verify a prescription or consult in an emergency.
Leashes, Collars, and ID Tags
Even though most of your dog’s time with us will be spent in secure play yards or indoor spaces, it’s still important to arrive with a well-fitting collar and leash. Your dog should be wearing an ID tag with up-to-date contact information. Microchipping is also strongly encouraged for all dogs who board with us.
We check all dogs for proper collar fit upon arrival. Too tight and it’s uncomfortable, too loose and it’s a safety risk. Martingale collars or harnesses are ideal for dogs who are strong pullers or get overexcited in new settings. If your dog uses a special harness or head collar for walking, please pack that too—especially if they’ll be going on individual walks or hikes as part of their Nature Dog package.
Health Records and Emergency Contacts
Before any dog boards at our facility, we require proof of current vaccinations. This includes rabies, distemper/parvo (DHPP), and bordetella. If your vet hasn’t sent them to us directly, include printed copies or email them in advance. This ensures a smooth check-in and helps us maintain a safe, healthy environment for all dogs in our care.
Additionally, provide at least one emergency contact other than yourself. This person should be available to make decisions if you cannot be reached, especially for medical situations. It’s rare that we need to reach out, but when we do, having a responsive contact makes a big difference.
Special Instructions and Behavioral Notes
No one knows your dog better than you. The little quirks, fears, and habits that make them who they are can help us tailor their care. Let us know if your dog is fearful of thunderstorms, anxious around other dogs, picky with food, or has any routines they rely on (like needing a potty break right after eating).
We take pride in giving personalized care, and knowing your dog’s behavioral traits allows us to offer the right environment. For example, a dog that needs quiet time after exercise might do better in a less active playgroup, or a shy pup might benefit from one-on-one time with staff before joining a social setting. The more we know, the more we can help your dog feel at ease.
Optional But Thoughtful Extras
Some pet parents pack extras that aren’t essential but are certainly appreciated. A few favorite chew treats, a slow feeder bowl, or even a copy of your dog’s training cues can enhance their stay. If your dog knows hand signals or specific commands, jotting those down helps us communicate more effectively.
We’ve even had clients include a printed photo of the family or a voice recording saying, “Good boy, we’ll see you soon!” It may sound silly, but these small gestures speak volumes in helping a dog feel secure.
Before You Pack: Check In With Us
Not all facilities allow the same items, and we have specific policies in place for safety and cleanliness. Before you start packing, give us a call or check our FAQ to review our current list of approved items. We’re always happy to answer questions and make recommendations based on your dog’s needs and the type of stay they’ll be enjoying.
Preparing for your dog’s boarding stay is about more than just ticking off a checklist. It’s about setting them up for a positive, enriching experience where they can relax, play, and thrive. Whether your pup is splashing in our pool, exploring the walking trails, or just soaking up belly rubs from staff, the right items from home can make all the difference.
Need help deciding what to bring? Reach out to the team at Animal Friends Pampered Paws. We’re here to help your dog feel right at home—because to us, they already are.
