Boarding your pet for the first time is a big deal — for you AND for them. We've boarded thousands of pets at Animal Friends Pet Care over the last 12 years, and here's everything we tell first-timers to make the experience smooth.
Before the stay: vaccines and pre-check
We verify vaccines for every guest. Bring or email us current proof of:
- Dogs: Rabies, DHPP (distemper/parvo combo), and Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Cats: Rabies and FVRCP
- Flea and tick prevention is strongly recommended year-round in Florida
If your vaccines are expired, we'll help you get them updated before the stay. We can't make exceptions — this protects every pet in our care.
What to pack
- Food (pre-portioned in baggies is ideal) — stomach upset from sudden food changes is the #1 boarding issue
- Any medications in clearly labeled containers with dosing instructions
- A familiar blanket or t-shirt that smells like home (makes anxious dogs settle faster)
- 1–2 favorite toys (no rawhides or bones that could be a choking hazard)
- Written feeding instructions if your pet has a specific routine
What we provide (so you don't need to pack it)
- Climate-controlled private suites (68–72°F)
- Fresh water refreshed multiple times daily
- Clean bedding — washed between guests
- Elevated cots for dogs who prefer them
- Multiple potty breaks and supervised exercise sessions
- Medication administration at no extra charge
What NOT to bring
- Expensive or irreplaceable toys — we're careful but not perfect
- Collars with tags that could snag (we use our own soft tracking collars)
- Food in a huge bag — pre-portioned is much easier for our team
What to expect on drop-off day
Plan for 10–15 minutes at drop-off. We'll do a quick intake, confirm feeding times, meds, and emergency contact. You'll be shown the boarding area and we'll introduce you to the staff caring for your pet. Once your pet is settled, you'll get a text update within the first few hours.
Watch your pet on the camera anytime
Every boarding suite has its own 24/7 live camera. You can watch your pet from your phone anytime through our client portal. Most first-timers check the camera once or twice and then relax — it's a huge peace-of-mind feature.
After the stay: what to expect
Pets often come home "boarding tired" — sleeping more than usual for a day or two. This is completely normal. Watch for any signs of stress (loss of appetite for more than 24 hours, diarrhea, excessive lethargy) and call us if you notice anything. The first return ride home is FREE with our pet taxi if driving in is inconvenient.
First boarding stays are almost always a positive experience. If you have questions or want to schedule a facility tour before committing, call us at (850) 257-5776. We're happy to walk you through everything.