How to prepare your dog for boarding or a walk

Whether you're heading on vacation or booking a dog walker for the first time, preparing your pup in advance makes the whole experience smoother for everyone.

1. Get your dog comfortable with their sitter

Arrange a short meet-and-greet in a neutral setting or at home, watch how your dog responds, and bring treats for positive reinforcement. We encourage a meet and greet before every booking.

2. Pack the essentials for boarding

•Their regular food for the entire stay, to avoid stomach upset

•A favourite blanket or toy for comfort

•Medication with detailed instructions

•Emergency contacts and vet information

A t-shirt with your scent can go a long way with separation anxiety.

3. Establish a routine before the walk

Practise walks on a similar route and duration, use the same leash and harness the sitter will use, and flag anything reactive so they can adjust their approach.

4. Provide clear instructions

Feeding schedule and portions, walking preferences, allergies or sensitivities, and emergency contacts. Quirks matter too — barking at delivery trucks, pulling on leash, dislikes of other dogs.

5. Keep goodbyes short and positive

A calm, quick exit tells your dog this is normal. Long emotional goodbyes raise the stakes for them, not lower them.