Things to know before your pet's first stay

These are the kennel's own house rules and tips, gathered in one place.

Who can stay

Dogs and cats must be 16 weeks old before the first day of their stay and have the recommended vaccinations for their age. A pet may not be accepted if it is not in good health. Diabetic dogs and cats are usually better off somewhere less busy; if you are unsure, call or come for a tour and talk about the care your pet needs. Small animals are welcome too, and the kennel may ask you to bring their cage.

Booking online

You can send booking requests online through your customer account, update your information and upload vaccination records. Set up an account through the Book link, or call and the kennel will get you started.

At check-in and check-out

Please leave your pet in the car while you check in and out. A staff member carries in the food and belongings and walks your pet safely to the kennel. That prevents scuffles in the parking lot and escape artists running for the hills. In warm weather leave the air conditioning on; the pavement gets hot, so if staff scoop up your dog and hurry, it is to save their paws.

Food

House food is free: a grain-free dry kibble and a wet food for dogs, plus farm-fresh eggs, hot dogs and treats; canned pate and a chicken-and-rice kibble for cats. Tell the staff about any allergy. For a special diet, bring enough food for the whole stay plus a bit extra, in the original bag, with amounts in cups or tablespoons. First-time boarders sometimes skip a meal or two; if a pet keeps refusing, the staff offer tempting treats like hot dogs.

What to bring

Leashes, bowls and balls are provided, so leave yours at home. One toy is fine, but not the favorite, because toys get lost or chewed. Every run has a Kuranda bed and plenty of blankets, so beds from home are not needed. Remove metal pinch or prong collars before check-in; they can catch on the chain-link runs. Do bring a slow-feeder bowl if your dog uses one, and mark every belonging.

What to expect at pick-up

A stay is a lot like summer camp: more exercise and more chatting with the neighbors than at home, so a tired dog is normal. It is a country kennel, so a bath may be welcome; ask for one and give the staff your arrival time so drying is finished when you get there.