Can I bring my pet's favorite bed or blanket to the boarding facility?

This is one of the most common and thoughtful questions we receive from pet parents. The short answer is a resounding yes, in the vast majority of cases, bringing your pet's favorite bed, blanket, or a piece of your clothing is not only allowed but actively encouraged by quality boarding facilities. These familiar items are powerful tools for reducing pet anxiety and promoting a restful stay.

The Science of Comfort: Why Familiar Items Matter

Studies in animal behavior consistently show that familiar scents are profoundly comforting to both dogs and cats. Your scent on a blanket or t-shirt acts as a security blanket, reducing cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and providing a tangible link to home in a new environment. Industry findings from organizations like the Pet Care Services Association underscore that allowing personal items is a best practice for supporting animal welfare during boarding. It helps pets settle in faster, sleep better, and generally have a more positive experience.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

To ensure your pet's comfort items provide maximum benefit without issue, follow these simple guidelines:

Choose Washable Items: Select a blanket, bed cover, or mat that can be easily laundered. Accidents or spills happen, and facilities need to maintain a clean environment.
Label Everything Clearly: Use a permanent marker or sew-on label with your pet's first and last name. This prevents items from getting lost in communal laundry.
Avoid Irreplaceable Heirlooms: While we take utmost care, boarding is a busy environment. Bring an item your pet loves, but not a one-of-a-kind family treasure that cannot be replaced.
Check Facility Policy in Advance: Always confirm with your specific kennel or cattery. Some may have restrictions on very large beds due to space constraints or may provide their own sanitized bedding for health and safety reasons.

What Not to Bring

For the safety of all pets, facilities typically prohibit certain items. It is best to leave these at home:

Bedding with stuffing that can be easily torn apart and ingested (e.g., some plush beds).
Bedding with rigid frames that could pose a hazard.
Excessively large items that won't fit comfortably in the assigned suite or kennel.
Items with loose threads, buttons, or zippers that could be chewed off.

Ultimately, bringing a piece of home is a simple yet highly effective strategy for easing your pet's transition into boarding. By providing a familiar scent and texture, you empower them to feel more secure and relaxed throughout their stay. A reputable facility will understand this need and partner with you to make your pet's comfort their priority.