What to Bring When Boarding Your Dog

Boarding your dog can feel like a big step, but with a little preparation, you can help ensure your pup feels right at home. At On Command Dogs, we strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment for your furry friend. To make your dog’s stay as smooth as possible, here’s a breakdown of what to bring—and what to leave at home—when boarding with us.

What You Can Bring

We encourage you to bring items that will help your dog feel more comfortable and maintain their routine. Here’s what we allow:

1. Your Dog’s Food: Whether your dog prefers dry kibble or wet food, bring enough to cover their entire stay. Consistency in diet helps prevent upset stomachs.
2. Treats: Feel free to pack their favorite treats, but be sure to keep them in their original packaging for easy identification.
3. Blankets (1-2): A familiar scent can provide comfort. One or two washable blankets from home are a great addition to their cozy spot.
4. Toys (1-3): Pack a few durable, non-squeaky toys your dog loves. These can help keep them entertained and relaxed during their stay.
5. Medication, Supplements, or Vitamins: If your dog requires medication or supplements, bring these in their original containers. Be sure to review our Medication Rules on our Dog Boarding page to ensure compliance.
6. Slow Feeder Bowls: If your dog benefits from a slow feeder, you’re welcome to bring it along. We provide regular bowls and water buckets, but we understand some dogs may need a specialized option.

What You Should Not Bring

For safety and practicality, there are certain items we cannot accept:

• Raw Food Diets: For sanitary reasons, raw food is not permitted.
• Beds and Crates: We provide cozy cots for all boarding dogs, so no need to bring beds or crates.
• Glass Containers and Liquid Medications: To prevent breakage and accidents, glass items and liquid medications or injections are not allowed.
• Heated Blankets or Electrical Items: Safety is our top priority, so we do not accept any electrical items, including heated blankets.
• Leashes, Collars, Bowls, and Measuring Cups: Our team uses standardized bowls, buckets, and measuring tools to ensure consistent care. Please leave these items at home.

A Note on Personal Belongings

While we do our best to keep your dog’s belongings safe and secure, we recommend avoiding items of sentimental or high monetary value. Accidents and misplaced items, though rare, can happen.

Preparing for a Stress-Free Stay

At On Command Dogs, we’re committed to making your dog’s stay as enjoyable as possible. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your pup is comfortable, well-cared for, and ready to have a great time. If you have any questions about what to bring, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help!