Boarding Your Pet for the Holidays: Planning Vaccines and Care

When you mark your holiday travel dates on the calendar, check your pet’s health records, too. A dog or cat can be current on vaccines and still be due for the stool test needed for boarding. At The Pets Place Animal Hospital in Riverside, we can help you review those dates before your pet stays at The Pack House next door.

Which Records Does Your Pet Need for Boarding?

The Pack House has specific health requirements for overnight guests. If another veterinarian cares for your pet, ask for a copy of the records a few weeks before your trip so there’s time to fill any gaps.

• All dogs and cats need a yearly veterinary exam, a current rabies vaccination and a stool test that includes Giardia screening within the past six months.

• Dogs also need annual DHPP and Bordetella vaccinations. DHPP is the combination vaccine that protects against distemper and parvovirus, among other infections.

• Cats also need annual FVRCP and feline leukemia vaccinations and must be spayed or neutered. FVRCP protects against several contagious illnesses, including feline distemper.

If you have a puppy or kitten, call us while you’re choosing travel dates. Young pets receive some vaccines in a series, and we can help you work out when yours will be ready to board.

Plan for Meals and Medications

Think through a typical day at home. If your cat eats half a can at breakfast or your dog needs a pill with the evening meal, write that down. Include portions, meal times, allergies and any treats your pet needs to avoid.

If your pet takes medication, confirm in advance that the boarding team can follow the prescribed schedule. Bring it in the original labeled container with written instructions. At drop-off, let us know when you gave the last dose so we know when the next one is due.

Before You Head Out of Town

Confirm holiday drop-off and pickup hours against your itinerary, especially if you expect to get back to Riverside late in the day. Leave a number where we can reach you and a backup contact who can make care decisions if you’re in transit.

If your pet develops a new cough, vomiting or diarrhea before the stay, call us before bringing them in. We can discuss whether your pet needs an exam or a change in boarding dates.

To check holiday boarding availability and review what your pet needs, call the boarding team at The Pets Place Animal Hospital in Riverside, CA, at (951) 602-5559.