Can I leave special instructions or preferences for my pet's care while boarding?

Absolutely. Reputable pet boarding facilities understand that every pet has unique needs, and most have established systems to accommodate special instructions and preferences. This is not only a courtesy but a fundamental aspect of responsible pet care. Whether it relates to diet, medication, behavior, or comfort, providing clear instructions helps ensure your pet’s stay is as stress-free and comfortable as possible.

What Kinds of Instructions Can You Leave?

Facilities typically welcome a wide range of guidance, from medical to behavioral to simple preferences. The more specific and detailed you can be, the better the staff can tailor their care. Common categories include:

• Feeding schedules and diet: You can specify exact times, portion sizes, and brand or type of food. If your pet is on a special diet (e.g., grain-free, prescription, raw), always provide that food in clearly labeled containers.
• Medication administration: Most boarding facilities are trained to administer oral, topical, or injectable medications. You will need to supply the medication in its original packaging with clear instructions on dosage, timing, and any special handling (e.g., with food or after a meal).
• Medical alerts and conditions: Inform the staff of any chronic conditions (like epilepsy, diabetes, or allergies), recent surgeries, or mobility issues. This helps them monitor for warning signs and adjust activities appropriately.
• Behavioral notes: If your pet is anxious around other dogs, shy with strangers, or has a history of resource guarding, communicate this. Staff can then place them in a quieter area, schedule solo playtimes, or use calming protocols.
• Exercise and activity preferences: Some pets thrive on high-energy play, while others prefer gentle walks or quiet cuddle time. Specify if your dog needs fetch time, if your cat enjoys interactive toys, or if your pet should avoid roughhousing with larger animals.
• Comfort items: You can often bring your pet’s own bed, blanket, toys, or even an item of your clothing that carries your scent. These familiar items can significantly reduce stress. Be sure to label everything with your pet’s name.
• Social preferences: Clearly state whether your dog is okay with group play, prefers one-on-one time with a human, or needs to be kept separate from other pets entirely. The same applies to cats, who are often happier in a quiet, private space.
• House rules and training cues: If you use specific commands for potty breaks, sitting before treats, or avoiding furniture, note them. Consistency with your home routine can help your pet settle in faster.

How to Communicate Your Instructions

Professional boarding facilities provide structured ways for you to submit these details. Many offer a pre-boarding form or online questionnaire where you can document everything in writing. During drop-off, you will usually review these instructions with a staff member face to face. Bring a printed copy of your care sheet as a backup. For critical medical information, some facilities require a note from your veterinarian as well.

A simple acronym to remember: MEDIT - Medication, Eating, Details (behavior/medical), Items (comfort), and Timing (schedule). Covering each of these ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

Why This Matters for Your Pet’s Well-Being

According to a 2019 survey by the American Pet Products Association, nearly 30% of pet owners use boarding or daycare services. Industry data consistently shows that pets adapt more quickly and experience lower stress levels when their care closely mirrors their home routine. By providing detailed instructions, you empower staff to reduce your pet’s anxiety, prevent dietary or medical issues, and maintain the behavioral standards you have worked hard to establish at home.

What to Expect from the Facility

A high-quality boarding facility will treat your instructions as a living document throughout the stay. They should update you on how your pet is responding, especially if there are any deviations from plan. If your pet refuses food at the scheduled time, for instance, the staff should know how to proceed. Always ask the facility about their process for handling unexpected changes or emergencies when you are not reachable.

In short, yes, you can and should leave special instructions. This is not a burden but a collaborative tool to provide your pet with the best possible care while you are away. Take the time to write them out clearly, discuss them with the facility, and rest assured that you are doing everything in your power to keep your pet safe, comfortable, and happy.