If you're hitting the road to visit family or heading off on a holiday vacation, one of the biggest questions for pet owners this time of year is: “Who will take care of my pet while I’m away?” Boarding is a reliable, comforting solution, but it does require some preparation. Fayetteville Animal Clinic has expert boarding for cats and dogs, so we want to pass that knowledge on to you so that your pet will have everything they need for a smooth boarding experience.

Preparing For Your Pet’s Holiday Stay

Boarding can be a fun and safe option for pets during the holidays, but only if they’re medically ready and emotionally supported. Many reputable boarding facilities have specific health and documentation requirements that must be met before drop-off.

A Checklist to Getting Your Pet Ready to Board

Make Sure Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Pet boarding facilities will require vaccines to protect your pet and others in their care from diseases like Kennel Cough spreading. These typically include:

• Dogs: Rabies, DHPP (Distemper/Parvo), Leptospirosis, and Bordetella
  
  

• Cats: Rabies and FVRCP

Some boarding locations may also ask for canine influenza or feline leukemia vaccines. If your pet needs their vaccines updated, Fayetteville Animal Clinic has vaccination services! Cats and dogs with expired vaccines should have their vaccinations updated at least two weeks prior to boarding to be sure they’re effective.

Provide Proof of Parasite Prevention

Fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites spread quickly in shared environments. Most boarding facilities require pets to be on current flea/tick and heartworm prevention. They may require recent parasite testing, too, depending on the facility. Call ahead to ask about requirements before booking a stay.

Schedulde a Pre-Boarding Check-up

Even if your pet seems healthy, a wellness exam offers peace of mind. Check-ups prior to boarding keep staff informed about your pet’s medical needs, dietary restrictions, or medications. If your pet requires daily pills or injections, we’ll make sure everything is prepared ahead of time.

Pack Familiar Items

Bringing a favorite blanket, toy, or piece of your clothing can make a big difference in helping your pet feel secure during their stay. While some boarding places include food (like ours), it can be a good idea to pack enough of the usual pet food for the entire stay to avoid any GI upset. This is especially important for those cats and dogs on prescription diets.

Discuss Special Needs in Advance

Does your pet have anxiety around strangers? Special dietary needs? Allergies? Let the boarding staff know everything you can about your pet’s routine and needs. We can provide documentation or medications to support your pet while you’re away if they’re being boarded elsewhere.

Book Early Because Holiday Spots Go Fast

Veterinary clinics and boarding facilities often fill up weeks in advance for the holidays. The earlier you book your pet’s boarding stay, the more flexibility you'll have, and the less stress you'll feel as travel day approaches.

Trusted Holiday Pet Boarding in Fayetteville, TN

When you take time to prepare your pet for boarding, you’re helping them stay healthy, safe, and comfortable while you're away. Let us help make that process smooth and worry-free. Fayetteville Animal Clinic has holiday boarding in Fayetteville for cats and dogs from Huntsville, Petersburg, Fayetteville, and neighboring Tennessee areas. Contact us to schedule your pet’s holiday stay or get their vaccines updated at Fayetteville Animal Clinic.