Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and December holiday trips, family visits and long weekends away are not far behind. If your dog is staying home, boarding is one of the biggest decisions on the to-do list. A little preparation now makes the stay smoother for your dog and gives you real peace of mind while you travel.
At our Galleria location at 5917 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77057, we offer grooming, doggy daycare and overnight boarding. Here is a practical checklist to work through before your trip.
Key takeaways
- Book holiday boarding as soon as your travel dates are set, because Thanksgiving and December dates fill first.
- Boarding at The Dog House requires current Bordetella, Distemper and Rabies vaccines (Canine Influenza is recommended).
- Pack your dog's own food, medications, vaccine records and one familiar item, and share your dog's routine with our team.
When should I book holiday boarding?
Book as soon as your dates are set. Thanksgiving and winter holiday travel tends to cluster around the same few days, so decide your drop-off and pick-up dates as early as you can. Once you know them, request your boarding dates online or call us so we can talk through what your dog needs.
What vaccines does my dog need for boarding?
For boarding and daycare at The Dog House, your dog needs current, unexpired Bordetella, Distemper and Rabies vaccines. Canine Influenza is not required, but we recommend it. See our required vaccinations page for details, and read why these vaccines matter before boarding. Vaccines can take a little time to schedule with your veterinarian, so check your dog's records well before your travel dates, then upload your pet's vaccination records before drop-off.
What should I pack for my dog's boarding stay?
Keep the bag simple:
- Your dog's regular food, with clear feeding instructions
- Any medications, with written directions
- Current vaccination records
- A familiar blanket or toy that smells like home
Familiar items can help a dog settle in a new place. Label belongings so they find their way home with your dog.
What should I tell the boarding team?
Tell us about your dog's routine, allergies, fears and quirks. Does your dog get nervous around loud noises? Eat slowly? Need a quiet moment after meals? Small details help the team care for your dog as an individual. Let us know the best way to reach you while you are away.
How do I make sure my dog's ID is current?
Before you leave town, take a minute to confirm your dog's ID tag shows a phone number you will actually answer while traveling. If your dog is microchipped, check that the microchip registration has your current contact information too. Many owners never update it after moving or changing numbers, and a registered chip is only useful if the details are current. It is a small step that can make a big difference if your dog ever gets loose.
What should I expect when my dog comes home?
Coming home is exciting. Many dogs are tired, thirsty or extra wound up for the first day or two after a boarding stay. Offer water, keep the first meal normal-sized rather than a big welcome-home feast, and get back to your usual walk and feeding routine as soon as you can. A familiar schedule helps your dog settle back in quickly. If anything seems off after a few days, check in with your veterinarian.
What does boarding at Galleria include?
Every overnight stay at our Galleria location includes doggy daycare at no extra charge, so your dog gets playtime and company during the day instead of waiting in a room. You can watch your dog on our live pet cams (Dog House TV) while you are away. Learn more about Galleria dog boarding.
Can my dog be groomed before pickup?
Many pet parents like their dog to come home fresh. Because we offer grooming at the Galleria location too, you can ask about scheduling a bath or grooming service before you pick your dog up. Ask our team about the options when you request your dates.
How do I make drop-off easier?
Keep drop-off calm and brief. Dogs often pick up on our emotions, so a relaxed, cheerful goodbye usually works better than a long one. Then enjoy your trip.
Ready to Plan Your Dog's Stay?
Learn more about our dog boarding in Houston, or request an appointment at Galleria. You can also call us at (713) 820-6140.
We look forward to caring for your dog while you are away.