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For regular periods, 2-4 weeks advance booking is recommended. For holidays (Christmas, Thanksgiving, summer holidays), book 2-3 months in advance as facilities fill up quickly and prices increase 25-50%.

Dogs typically need rabies, DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza), and bordetella (kennel cough). Cats need rabies and FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia). Most facilities require vaccinations to be current within the past year.

Yes, and it's highly recommended! Bringing your pet's regular food prevents digestive upset from sudden diet changes. Most facilities encourage this and don't charge for food you provide. They typically charge $5-15/day if you use their food.

Reputable facilities have veterinary relationships and emergency protocols. They'll contact you immediately if your pet shows signs of illness. You'll need to provide emergency contact information and veterinary authorization. Some facilities include basic veterinary care; others charge for medical services.

Some initial stress is normal, but most pets adjust within 24-48 hours. To minimize stress: visit the facility beforehand, bring familiar items (toys, blankets), consider a trial stay, and choose a facility that matches your pet's personality (quiet for anxious pets, active for social dogs).

This varies by facility type. Traditional kennels typically offer 2-4 bathroom breaks daily. Daycare facilities provide 4-8 hours of supervised play. Luxury hotels often include 3-5 individual walks plus playtime. Always ask about specific exercise schedules.

Policies vary. Some facilities allow scheduled visits, while others discourage it because visits can increase pet anxiety and disrupt their adjustment. Many facilities now offer webcam access so you can check on your pet remotely without disrupting their routine.

Daycare is daytime-only care (typically 7am-7pm) focused on socialization and play, averaging $25-40/day. Boarding includes overnight stays with sleeping accommodations and 24-hour supervision. Some facilities offer combined "daycare + overnight" packages for active, social dogs.

Most facilities require puppies/kittens to be at least 4 months old and fully vaccinated. For elderly pets, facilities may require veterinary clearance or recommend veterinary boarding where medical support is readily available. Always disclose your pet's age and any health conditions.

Most facilities will administer medication you provide, typically for an additional fee of $5-15/day depending on frequency and complexity. You must provide detailed instructions and sufficient medication. Veterinary boarding facilities are best equipped to handle complex medical needs.

Pack: enough food for the entire stay plus extra, current medications with instructions, favorite toys or blankets, leash and collar with ID tags, vaccination records, emergency contact information, and your veterinarian's contact details. Label everything with your pet's name.

Standard pet insurance doesn't cover boarding costs, but some plans include boarding coverage if you're hospitalized. What insurance DOES cover is emergency veterinary care during boarding if your pet gets sick or injured, which can save hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Some facilities accept reactive dogs but may charge more for individual accommodations and limited socialization. Others specialize in difficult behaviors. Always be honest about your pet's temperament—facilities need this information to keep all pets safe and may refuse service if surprised by aggressive behavior.

Cancellation policies vary but typically require 48-72 hours notice for full refunds. Holiday bookings often have stricter policies (7-14 days notice) and may require non-refundable deposits of 25-50%. Always read cancellation terms before booking.

Happy pets typically show excitement when returning to the facility, eat normally, and maintain their regular behavior at home. Signs of stress include loss of appetite, lethargy, or behavioral changes lasting more than 2-3 days after pickup. Many facilities provide daily report cards or photos during stays.

Ask about: staff-to-pet ratios, emergency protocols, veterinary relationships, 24/7 supervision, cleaning procedures, exercise schedules, temperature control, how they handle aggressive or anxious pets, communication during your pet's stay, and whether you can see the actual boarding areas (not just reception).

No, reputable facilities keep cats and dogs in completely separate areas to reduce stress. Cat boarding areas are typically quieter with vertical space, hiding spots, and no dog visibility or sounds. This separation is crucial for feline comfort and safety.

Luxury packages typically include: private suites with raised beds, TVs or music, webcam access, multiple daily walks, one-on-one playtime, grooming services, bedtime treats, daily photo updates, climate-controlled rooms, and sometimes spa services like massages or aromatherapy. Expect to pay $75-150/night.

Tipping isn't required but is appreciated for exceptional care. For extended stays or holiday boarding, consider $20-50 or 15-20% of the total cost, distributed among staff who cared for your pet. Some owners bring treats or thank-you cards for the team instead.