How To Prepare Your Pet For Their First Stay At A Kennel Or Cattery

Our furry friends are often cherished as beloved family members, so it, therefore, becomes our duty to ensure their comfort and well-being, especially when circumstances necessitate a temporary separation.

One of these situations arises when you must place your pet in a kennel or cattery for an extended period.

We understand this can be a daunting experience for both you and your pet, so this guide is designed to provide comprehensive tips for preparing your pet for their first stay at a kennel or cattery, easing any anxiety and uncertainty involved.

Getting Your Pet Used to the New Environment

Just like us, the chances are your pet will feel a little out of place in a space they don’t know. Therefore, familiarising them with the space before the boarding stay is a great way to ease their anxiety and stress.

Of course, it isn’t always possible to take them to the boarding centre and have them stay there for a bit, but there are things you can do.

This includes providing them with meals similar to their usual diet, gradually exposing them to different pets and people for socialisation, and familiarising them with the daily routines they’ll encounter at the facility (such as having the same eating times).

You might also consider offering them a comforting item from home, like a favourite blanket or toy. This can create a smoother transition for your pet and enable them to adapt successfully to the temporary accommodation.

Of course, on top of all this, using the same cattery or kennel can increase familiarity over the years.

Ensuring Your Pet’s Physical and Emotional Well-being

Your pet’s physical and emotional well-being is paramount during their first boarding experience, as this can shape their future response to similar situations.

This includes maintaining their regular diet and feeding schedule and ensuring they get enough exercise during their stay.

Regular diet and exercise not only promote physical health but can also alleviate stress and anxiety related to being in an unfamiliar environment.

The best way to approach this is to simply communicate these needs to the kennel staff and help them adjust the environment accordingly for your pet.

Preparing Necessary Documents and Supplies

Preparing the necessary documents and supplies well in advance can help facilitate a smoother, more stress-free boarding experience for your pet.

This includes vaccination records, proof of ownership, microchip information, emergency contacts, and other paperwork required by the facility.

Again, apart from documents, familiar belongings like bedding, toys, grooming tools, and enough food supplies can help recreate a sense of familiarity for your pet in the new surroundings.

Conclusion

Preparing your pet for their first kennel or cattery stay involves a comprehensive approach – acclimating them to the new environment, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being, and preparing all necessary documents and supplies.

Investing time in these measures will help ensure a positive and stress-free experience for you and your pet.

At Hollybank Cattery and Kennel Services, we understand how much you care for your furry friend.

If you’re ready to book your first boarding stay with us, reach out today. We’re committed to providing the utmost care and comfort for your beloved pets, ensuring they feel at home even when they’re away.