How should i prepare my dog(s) for

their overnight stay?

I understand sending your dog off for overnight boarding can be much like dropping your child off at their first day of school (actually it seems people are more sad about their dogs). It is okay to feel that way — it is normal to be a bit anxiety ridden about leaving your family member behind — especially if it is their first time away.
Please know, you can text me any time to check in. I do my best to send transparent updates (the good, the bad, the ugly) — not information to make you worried or feel bad. I want your dog’s stay to be a success as much as you do. I want your dog to be stress free and easily transition and acclimate and will do my best to help that happen.

Here are a few frequently asked questions to help you better prepare for your upcoming overnight reservations.

Is it Okay to reach out in advance of my overnight stay to ask questions and confirm details?:

Yes, please. I prefer over-communication. Questions are encouraged. If you would like to contact me to confirm arrival and departure details, please do. If you would like to let me know you are ‘on your way’ I appreciate that. If you want to contact me following your dog’s stay to let me know how they are doing…I love that! All specific details should also be found on your reservation request confirmation (the confirmation sent back via email from your online form submission) as well as your invoice. I will also send additional details along with your invoice recapping commonly asked questions.

Do I need to bring their food?:

Yes, unless you’ve opted for homemade meals (raw feeding) provided by the Dog Ranch during their stay. If you are bringing your dog’s food, please pre-measure food in individual bags/containers or be sure food is brought in a less than 25lb bag/container. I am happy to scoop out the desired amounts (feel free to include a scoop if you would like, otherwise I have plenty!). If you have an extended stay where more than a 25lb bag of food is needed, that is the only time I ask for that much food to be provided. In case of an emergency (as a pet-sitter) I ask that you label their food with the dog’s name & brief feeding instructions. If medication is needed please also label with your dog’s name and include brief instructions.

Do I need to bring additional belongings?:

No, and due to limited storage space I ask you try to pack as little as possible for your dog’s overnight stay as everything is provided. I have everything from bowls, blankets, beds, crates of all sizes, crate pads, toys, etc. Please DO NOT bring any personal items of value as there is always a chance those items are ruined or destroyed by another dog. I sanitize all of the bowls and bedding — and replace items frequently as they are worn, ripped, or start to smell a little bit too doggy.

What if my dog has a history of “kennel stress”/anxiety?:

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety or stress or historically gets loose bowels when boarded, please contact your vet to inquire about a stool hardener for "kennel stress" as well as anti-anxiety medications.

How should I make sure my dog is ready?:

Please ensure your dog is flea and tick free! Yes, I do ask that you check them before you bring them for a stay. If your dog has been unhealthy, abnormal, or experiencing symptoms other than their norm before your stay, please contact me in advance to discuss specifics. DO NOT DROP OFF A SICK DOG TO ME AS I WILL NOT TAKE IT. For peace of mind we also have an optional intake exam you are able to fill out within 12 hours of your stay.

Do I need to bring items I use for my dog during training or walks?:

No, unless your puppy or dog is coming for training (and if that is the case we will discuss specific needs) I do not need the many contraptions you may use when taking your dog out and about. Please DO NOT bring your dog on a retractable leash. 4ft or 6ft leash preferred with a secure collar or harness that your dog will not slip out of.

How do I pay?:

You will receive an invoice in advance of your stay sent to the email provided on the reservation request form you submitted online. Balance is due before or at arrival. Accepted methods of payments:

I ask that you review your invoice thoroughly to ensure the times provided for arrival and departure are correct.

What if my stay falls during hurricane season and a storm is projected?

I like to consider myself very organized with the great ability to plan ahead. If you have a stay falling during hurricane season, please check out our Hurricane Preparedness Memo to make sure you plan appropriately in the case of a major hurricane.

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