Boarding facility pet owner pre-arrival checklist
A boarding facility runs smoothly when arrivals are ready. A pre-arrival checklist catches the misses before they slow check-in.
THE DRIYU JOURNAL
Emergency & Safety
In this reading
Quick answer: confirm the facility’s current health and document requirements, then discuss them with your veterinarian in advance. Prepare suitable food, prescribed medication, agreed comfort items, a private behavior brief and reachable contacts.
A note about veterinary care
This article is for organization and general education only. It is not veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always ask your veterinarian about your pet's health, medications, vaccinations, weight, symptoms, or care plan.
Before arrival
- Vaccines confirmed current per facility requirements.
- Negative fecal screen if required.
- Suitable food in its original or clearly identified packaging, with an agreed reserve
- Medicines in labeled containers with the veterinarian’s dose, timing and storage instructions
- A safe familiar item if the facility permits it and the pet will not chew or swallow it
- Written behavior brief.
- Microchip number and 2 emergency contacts on hand.
- Photograph any pre-existing skin scrapes or coat issues.
- Confirm pickup and drop-off times.
At arrival
Drop-off briefing with staff. Walk through any specific concerns. Confirm communication plan for the stay. Sign off on any required forms.
How Driyu fits
Driyu keeps identification and recovery information separate from private medical records. A scan alone does not give staff the full history. Provide the facility’s requested documents directly; if inviting a caregiver through Family Sync, choose the appropriate role and review access after the stay.
Related reads from Driyu
- What your boarder wishes you'd bring (and what to skip)
- Cat boarding preparation: a calm pre-drop-off checklist
- Dog boarding behavior honesty checklist for owners
Sources and further reading
- IBPSA — International Boarding & Pet Services Association
- Fear Free Pets — Boarding facilities
- AAHA — Vaccine guidelines
Frequently asked questions
How early to arrive?
Agree an arrival window with the facility that allows time to review care instructions.
What if vaccines lapse?
Contact the facility and veterinarian before arrival. Ask about required timing and any waiting period; a last-minute vaccination may not satisfy admission rules.
Should I send the comfort item every stay?
Ask the facility what is allowed and suitable for this animal. Do not send items that could be swallowed or create a handling problem.
Can I call during the stay?
Most facilities welcome check-ins; ask up front.