A little preparation can make your puppy’s first boarding stay easier for both of you. Pack enough of their regular food, a safe item from home, and clear notes about their routine and needs. Bring the records the boarding provider requests, too, and confirm requirements before drop-off. A thoughtful packing plan helps staff care for your puppy consistently and gives you a chance to share important details before you leave.
Pack Their Regular Food
Bring the food your puppy already eats rather than switching brands or recipes just before boarding. A sudden diet change can upset their stomach, and boarding may already bring new sights, sounds, and routines. Measure portions in advance or label each serving so staff can follow your puppy’s usual schedule.
Pack enough food for the full stay, plus a small amount extra in case plans change. Use a sealed container or individual bags labeled with your puppy’s name and feeding instructions. Include any treats your puppy regularly receives, and tell staff about food allergies, dietary restrictions, or ingredients to avoid.
Choose Familiar Comfort Items
A washable blanket or a familiar toy can help your puppy settle into an unfamiliar space. Choose an item they use at home and that is safe to leave with them. Avoid anything valuable, difficult to clean, or small enough to swallow. Check with the boarding provider first, since policies on personal belongings vary.
Label each item with your puppy’s name, and let staff know how your puppy uses it. For example, mention whether the blanket belongs in their sleeping area or the toy is appropriate only during supervised play. If your puppy tends to chew or shred fabric, ask the provider what comfort item is safest.
Write Clear Care Instructions
Prepare a concise care sheet with your puppy’s feeding times, portion sizes, bathroom routine, sleep habits, and any commands they know. Include practical cues that help staff understand your puppy, such as how they ask to go outside or what helps them relax after play. Be specific rather than relying on general notes.
List medications with the exact dose, timing, and method of administration, and bring them in their original packaging when possible. Note allergies, sensitivities, behavior concerns, and emergency contacts. Tell the provider about anything that could affect care, including fears, escape attempts, resource guarding, or a tendency to chew unfamiliar objects.
Gather Health Records
Ask the boarding provider which records and health requirements they need before your puppy arrives. Requirements can differ, so confirm whether they need vaccination documentation, parasite-prevention details, or other information. Send records ahead of time if accepted, and keep a copy available at drop-off in case staff need to check a detail.
Make sure the provider has your current phone number and the contact information for someone who can make decisions if you are unavailable. Share your veterinarian’s details and any relevant health history. Confirm drop-off timing, pickup arrangements, and what the facility supplies so you do not pack unnecessary items or miss a requirement.
Before you leave home, review the provider’s packing rules and label every item you bring. A familiar diet, useful comfort item, written routine, and current records give staff a clearer picture of your puppy’s needs. Contact Tacoma Puppy House before drop-off to confirm what to bring and share any care details.