Whether you're heading out for a holiday trip or a short work travel stint, boarding your dog for the first time (or the tenth) goes a lot smoother when you pack thoughtfully. A well-prepared bag reduces stress for your dog and gives kennel staff everything they need to keep your dog's routine as normal as possible while you're away.
Start With What the Kennel Requires
Most boarding facilities have a required packing list, usually covering vaccination records, food, and medication. Call ahead or check their website a week or two before drop-off so you're not scrambling to find proof of vaccinations the night before.
Typically required documents
- Proof of vaccinations (rabies, DHPP, and often bordetella for kennel cough)
- Vet contact information and, if relevant, a signed authorization for emergency treatment
- Any known allergy or medical condition notes
Food and Feeding Supplies
- Your dog's regular food, pre-portioned: Sudden diet changes can cause stomach upset, so bring enough of your dog's usual food for the full stay plus a couple of extra days in case of delays.
- Written feeding instructions: Note exact amounts and times, especially if your dog is on a specific schedule or has food sensitivities.
- A slow feeder if your dog uses one at home: If your dog eats too quickly, sending their usual slow feeder bowl keeps mealtime consistent and reduces the risk of digestive issues in an unfamiliar environment.
- Any medications, clearly labeled: Include exact dosing instructions and timing, ideally taped directly to the container.
Comfort Items From Home
Familiar smells go a long way toward easing anxiety in a new environment. Consider packing:
- A blanket, bed, or towel that smells like home
- A favorite toy (avoid anything with squeakers or small parts if the kennel doesn't allow supervised-only toys)
- An unwashed t-shirt with your scent on it, if your dog tends to get anxious away from you
Collar, Leash, and ID
- A secure, well-fitted collar with current ID tags: Double-check the fit before drop-off, since a slightly loose collar is a bigger risk in an unfamiliar facility with multiple dogs and staff members.
- A backup leash: Kennels often ask you to bring your own leash for walks and outdoor time; a sturdy, easy-to-clip option is worth having on hand.
- Consider a temporary tag with the kennel's address and phone number in addition to your usual ID tag, in case your dog were to slip out during a walk at the facility.
What Not to Pack
- Rawhide or long-lasting chews: Many kennels restrict these due to choking risk when dogs aren't individually supervised.
- Anything irreplaceable: Items can get lost or damaged during a busy multi-dog stay, so leave sentimental blankets or expensive toys at home.
- Too much food: Bringing an entire bag when a smaller, clearly portioned container would do just adds clutter for staff to manage.
Prepping Your Dog Before the Stay
If this is your dog's first time boarding, a short trial stay (even just a day) a few weeks before a longer trip can help you and the facility spot any issues early. Keep your dog's routine as normal as possible in the days leading up to drop-off — consistent walks, regular meals, and familiar bedtime routines all help reduce pre-trip anxiety.
The Drop-Off Checklist
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Documents | Vaccination records, vet contact, emergency authorization |
| Food | Pre-portioned meals, written feeding instructions, slow feeder if used |
| Medication | Labeled containers with dosing instructions |
| Comfort | Bed or blanket, one familiar toy |
| Gear | Collar with ID, backup leash |
Before drop-off, it's worth checking that your dog's collar and leash are in good condition and properly fitted. Browse GraviPaw's collars and leashes collection for a secure, comfortable fit, or explore the full collection for other travel-ready essentials.
The Bottom Line
A little preparation makes boarding easier on your dog and on the kennel staff caring for them. Pack the required documents, stick to your dog's regular food and routine as closely as possible, bring one or two comfort items from home, and make sure your dog's ID is current before you say goodbye.
