Vaycay or staycay? If you’re planning adventures away from home, I’m offering summer boarding June 9 – July 4, 2018! Check my calendar for availability. 
Whether you decide to stay or go, here are 5 things you can do now so that you and your pup are ready to dive into summer fun! Puppy hockey, anyone?
Fix your 411
Make sure your dog wears your current contact information on him. Literally.
- Your dog should wear an ID tag with your current phone number. Bonus: Go to the vet and get your dog microchipped!
- If your dog is microchipped, make sure that the information on the microchip’s Web site (especially phone number) is up-to-date.
Ease fireworks fears
For 10-15 minutes each day, give your dog something yummy while you play videos of fireworks very softly (use level 1 or 2 on your computer to start). YOU may not be able to hear the audio, but your dog can. When your dog is comfortable with the fireworks noise at that level, increase the volume just slightly on the next day.
For more tips for the 4th, see 5 Tips to Try Today to Ease Your Pup’s Firework Fears for the 4th.
Boarding basics
Do some prep steps now for a stress-free vaycay.
- Check with your boarding facility about required vaccinations, so that you can speak with your vet.
- First-time boarders: Do some research, call up your top contenders, and make an appointment to tour the facility.
- For new clients, many boarding facilities require a temperament test or trial overnight stay, which must be completed before your vacation.
I’m offering summer boarding June 9 – July 4, 2018! Check my calendar for availability.
Visit your vet
- Update your dog’s vaccinations. This includes the basic DHLPPC and rabies vaccinations. If you board your dog, kennel cough (Bordatella) and canine flu (a 2-shot series) may be required.
- Get a copy of your pet’s updated vaccinations. Proof of vaccinations is required by most airlines and boarding facilities.
Summer staycay fun
Teach your dog to stay during your staycay (and sit, down, and even roll over)! 
- More group classes are available in the summer. Unlike kids and summer school, most dogs enjoy positive training classes!
- Longer days mean more time for you and your dog to practice your new skills. Bonus: positive training is great bonding time for people and dogs!
- Most pet parents know about kiddie pools for pup playtime. Freezing water in a food storage container and then sliding it across the patio for a game of puppy hockey can also be great summer fun!
