A calm holiday stay starts with better questions.

For a lot of flat-faced dogs, the holidays bring their first stay away from home. Excitement, a new routine, and a busy house all ask more of a dog who already works harder to breathe and cool down. Whether you book holiday dog boarding here in Phoenix or anywhere else, a calm stay starts with a few good questions.

Why does a flat-faced dog need extra planning?

Because heat isn’t the only trigger. Flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs such as French bulldogs, pugs, and bulldogs can have trouble panting enough to cool off, especially when exercising. [1] Their breathing signs are often worse when they’re excited, exercising, or hot, and they may struggle to cool down under stress or anxiety. [2] Some only sound noisy when they’re excited, playing, or stressed, and some with breathing problems have pauses in breathing during sleep. [3]

Exercise matters most. In UK veterinary records, about three in four cases of heat-related illness were triggered by exercise, and French bulldogs had about six times the risk of Labrador retrievers. [4] A new place, new dogs, and new people can add up to more running around than your dog is used to.

Why board instead of bringing them along?

Flying is hard on short-nosed dogs. The USDA notes they face an increased risk of heat stroke and breathing problems when exposed to stress or extreme heat, [5] and many airlines won’t carry them. [6] The AVMA suggests owners of short-nosed pets consider other options, such as a reliable pet sitter or boarding. [7]

What should I ask a sitter or boarding host?

These questions work for any home-based sitter or boarding facility. Good hosts are glad you asked.

• How do you handle heat, play, and excitement for a dog who breathes like mine? Listen for calm play, rest breaks, cool indoor space, and walks timed around the weather. [1][4]
• Can my dog eat their own food on their usual schedule? A sudden switch in food can upset a dog’s stomach, [8] and a sudden change in diet or routine adds stress during a stay. [9]
• Can they bring a blanket or toy from home? Familiar things give a dog a sense of home. [9]
• Who can approve care if you can’t reach me? The AVMA suggests naming someone who can act for you in an emergency and agreeing ahead of time how costs will be handled. Many sitters and boarding services have their own emergency authorization form. [10]
• Which emergency vet would you use? Your host should know your regular veterinarian and the nearest emergency clinic. [11]
• Can we meet first? The RSPCA and the PDSA both suggest visiting before you book. [12][13]
• How do you keep an eye on dogs during the day and evening? It’s one of the RSPCA’s own questions for choosing a boarder. [12]
• How will you keep holiday food away from my dog? High-fat foods can lead to pancreatitis, onions and garlic can be toxic, and desserts with xylitol can be dangerous. [14] Grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage. [15]
• What vaccines do you require, and how far ahead? The next section covers the usual ones.

What vaccines does a dog need for boarding?

Requirements vary by host, so ask early. In Maricopa County, dogs over three months old are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies. [16] The Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine is recommended for dogs who spend time in kennels, daycares, and other places with lots of dogs. [17] Canine influenza vaccine isn’t recommended for every dog, but it’s worth discussing for dogs who board or mix with other dogs. [18] It’s given as two doses two to four weeks apart, [19] so if your veterinarian recommends it, start a month or more before the stay.

Your veterinarian can tell you what your dog needs. Some hosts need a set amount of time between a vaccine and a stay, so don’t leave it to the last minute. [13]

What should I hand over at drop-off?

• Vaccination records, including proof of rabies vaccination. [10]
• Medications in their original bottles, with written directions for the time and dose. [9]
• Your veterinarian’s name and number, and the closest 24-hour emergency clinic. [20]
• Your dog’s microchip information. [20]
• The name and number of the person who can approve care if you can’t be reached. [10]
• Enough of their usual food for the stay, plus a little extra.
• A note on their routine: meals, walks, rest, and what helps them settle. The RSPCA suggests sharing your pet’s usual routine and how important it is to stick to it. [12]

Our free first-stay checklist puts all of this on one printable page.

How early should I book for the holidays?

As early as you can. Good boarding places often fill up during busy holiday times, according to the PDSA. [13] Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 26, and a meet-and-greet, a vaccine appointment, and maybe a trial day all need to fit before it.

When should I call a vet?

Don’t wait if your dog is struggling to breathe, collapses, or seems overheated. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service right away. The RSPCA lists signs of heatstroke including heavy panting, noisy breathing, weakness, and collapse. [21] If your dog eats something that might be toxic, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435; a consultation fee may apply. [22]

A better default.

A short daycare day or a one-night stay before a long holiday trip gives your dog, and you, a trial run.

Educational information, not an individual veterinary assessment. If your dog needs urgent help, contact a veterinarian or emergency veterinary service rather than waiting for a reply from Boss Dog Co.