Summer is officially here in Texas. School is out and many of us are looking forward to going on vacation. Finding your pets a place to stay while you’re away is an essential part of planning for your journey.

We have indoor dogs and leaving them out in the yard with a neighbor to feed them daily is not an option. So when we can’t beg a friend or family member to house/dog sit, we end up boarding them in a kennel. Boarding can be anxiety inducing for both dogs and their owners. Over the years we have learned a few things that you can do to make it easier on both you and your dogs.

First, choose a reputable kennel and make an unannounced visit before you go. Look for cleanliness, a positive atmosphere and friendly workers. Be sure that you know what the facility requirements are in terms of shots and vet records, as well as drop off and pick up times.

Though challenging, try to be calm when planning and packing for your trip. On the departure day act like it’s a typical day. A lot of dogs experience anxiety when they are boarded at a kennel or anywhere that’s not their home. Your dog can sense your anxiety, so try not to act like you’re a parent leaving their newborn for the first time.

Bring his favorite blanket or cushion and toy to the boarding facility. You may also want to sacrifice a t-shirt that you’ve slept in the night before, unwashed, so it smells like you to help calm him once you are gone. Also, bring his food, treats, and dishes with instructions as to how much you feed and when. Anything of his that you can bring will help minimize the stress he will feel.

Make sure you don’t suddenly change his food before you go. It could result in an upset stomach which can add to his distress.

Here’s the hard part. Once you drop him off… leave quickly. Don’t drag out the good-byes, make a fuss, or act like you are leaving for a long time (even if you are). Have a positive attitude like you are leaving him for a playdate. This way he won’t be as stressed and your departure will be more peaceful if you do not have to deal with a freaked-out, screaming dog.

Remember though, no matter what, remain calm.

If you’re boarding two dogs that are fairly close friends, they may do better sharing a kennel than in separate ones. You often get a cost break that way as well.

Find a kennel you feel comfortable with and use it every time you travel. Your dog will adapt better if he stays at the same place each time. Boarding our dogs has worked out better than we could have imagined. The owners of K-9 Country Kennels offered to keep Rebel and Rosie in their home since they are small dogs and used to staying indoors. Butch calls them his work out buddies and talks to them when he’s on the treadmill each morning. It’s comforting to know that they still get lap time and are virtually spoiled rotten while we enjoy our vacation. Interestingly, they always return home from their time away a little fatter, just like we do.