A stiff dog can board comfortably when the kennel knows what to watch for. These steps cover what to say, what to pack and what to ask.
What arthritis looks like
Cornell's Riney Canine Health Center describes osteoarthritis as chronic and progressive, with no cure but real options for slowing it and easing pain. Signs include stiffness, a changed gait, hesitating to walk or exercise, and trouble with stairs, jumping or getting up from rest. Cornell lists weight control, low-impact activity such as leash walks, and non-slip surfaces among the lifestyle measures, along with pain medications that your vet prescribes and monitors.
Put it on the paperwork
The Happy Paws medical release is built for this. It records health conditions and age-related concerns, and it notes that boarding can make conditions such as anxiety, mobility problems and arthritis flare up. On the pet information form give the age, weight, feeding amounts and any condition. On the release say who to call, and pick the treatment level you want if you cannot be reached. Keep your vet's phone number on the form.
Medications and routine
Medications are given at no extra charge. Bring them in the original containers with the dose and times written out, including pain relievers and joint supplements. Keep the schedule exactly as at home, since a missed dose can make a stiff day worse. The boarding a dog on medication guide has the details.
The run itself
Each dog has an indoor/outdoor run with a Kuranda raised bed and blankets. The raised bed keeps a dog off the floor, and the inside room is heated in winter, which matters for stiff joints on cold valley nights. Your dog uses a doggie door to move between inside and outside at its own pace. Walks are included, so tell the staff if your dog should walk slowly or for a shorter time. A larger dog with sore hips may be more comfortable with the extra room of Business Class or First Class. Ask on the tour to see the bed and the doggie door. The senior dog boarding page has more.