With the holiday season approaching, you may be finalizing your travel plans. While some pet parents may decide to travel with their canine companion, sometimes it is not feasible to do so. For example, my dog, Ruby, has decided that her nemesis is my parents' 13-year-old poodle named Jethro. Unfortunately, this means she is not welcomed into my childhood home as it is unacceptable to terrorize a senior dog. 

If you are in a similar situation, you will likely have to board your dog. Now, I know this can be overwhelming for you and your furry friend. Here are a few tips on how to make the process a little less painful. 

Do A Trial Run

Before boarding your dog for an extended period, take your furry friend in for a day. This will give you a good indication that Fido has the right temperament to be boarded. 

Get Your Dog Checked Up 

You will need to make sure that your canine companion is in tip-top shape before boarding them. Specifically, your dog should have all their vaccines up to date. 

Consider Crate Training 

While at the boarding facility, your dog will likely be put in a crate. If your furry friend is not crate-trained, you may want to try a few techniques. Purchase an appropriate-sized crate and place it in an area where your family gathers. You can make this a desirable spot with the use of treats. Feel free to shut the door as you give Fido something delicious. This way, your furry friend will associate the crate with a tasty time. 

Bring Their Favorite Belongings

Before taking your furry friend to the boarding facility, pack all their favorite belongings so they feel more at home. For instance, when Ruby gets boarded, I make sure she has her pretty pink blanket and her elephant plush named Timothy Elephant after beloved actor Timothy Olyphant. 

Do Not Prolong Saying Goodbye

I am well aware that saying goodbye to your furry friend can be emotional. However, it is important to have a clean getaway. If you prolong your exit, your dog will likely get even more upset.