Preparing for Your Dog's Stay
A little preparation can go a long way in helping your dog settle in comfortably. Here's everything you need to know before your dog's stay with Reliable Canine.
Set your dog up for success.
Complete the Intake Form
Please complete your boarding intake form before your dog's arrival. Be sure to include accurate information about your dog's health, behaviour, feeding routine, medications, and anything else we should know.
Vaccinations
Make sure your dog's required vaccinations are current and provide a copy of their vaccination records before their stay. For boarding at Reliable Canine, the minimum required vaccinations are DHPP, Rabies, and Bordetella.
Food
Please provide enough food for the entire stay, plus a little extra in case of delays or changes to the schedule.
Medications
Bring enough medication for the entire stay. Medication should be clearly labelled with your dog's name and include clear dosage and administration instructions.
Keep it simple.
What your dog needs for their stay
Required
- Food and current measuring cup
- Medications
- Collar and leash
- Any current training gear (prong collar, E-collar, etc)
Optional
- Favourite toy
- Comfort item
- Special treats (Kongs, Bully Sticks, etc)
- Other familiar items
We Provide
- Food and water bowls
- Crate
- Bedding
We recommend leaving valuable or irreplaceable items at home. Your dog may not return everything in quite the same condition they arrived with it!
Keep the transition easy.
Give Them Some Exercise
A normal walk or some exercise before drop-off can help your dog arrive feeling relaxed and ready to settle in. There's no need to exhaust them—just give them a chance to move, sniff, and do their business.
Keep Their Routine
Unless we've discussed otherwise, keep your dog's normal feeding and bathroom routine before arrival.
Keep Goodbyes Calm
Dogs can pick up on our emotions. A calm, positive goodbye usually makes the transition easier. You don't need to make a big goodbye—we'll take it from there!
Arrive on Time
Please arrive during your scheduled drop-off time. If your plans change or you're running late, let us know as soon as possible.
What your dog can expect.
Every dog settles in differently. Your dog's routine will be based on their individual needs and may include structured rest, exercise, enrichment, feeding, and training throughout their stay.
Dogs may be introduced to our resident dogs when we feel the interaction is appropriate and safe based on temperament, behaviour, and compatibility. Interactions are always supervised and never forced.
If we have any concerns during your dog's stay, we'll contact you or your emergency contact.
Ready to go home.
Please arrive during your scheduled pick-up time. If you're running late or someone else will be picking up your dog, let us know ahead of time.
Some dogs settle in right away, while others need a little more time. Our goal is to make your dog feel safe, comfortable, and cared for throughout their stay.
Ready for their stay?
Once you've completed your intake form and prepared everything your dog needs, you're all set. We look forward to welcoming them to Reliable Canine.