Leaving your furry friend behind while you travel can be stressful, but with the right pet boarding option, your four-legged buddy will feel like he’s on vacation too. At Plateau Animal Hospital in Cumberland County and surrounding areas, our trusted team provides compassionate care and cozy accommodations for your beloved pets. If you’re searching for pet boarding services near me, our veterinary clinic is here to help.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended trip, it’s essential to understand what overnight boarding for pets involves and how to find a facility that treats your pooch or kitty like family. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how pet boarding works, what to expect from check-in to pick-up, and tips for choosing a boarding facility that prioritizes safety, comfort, and fun.

What Does Pet Boarding Include?

If you’re new to pet boarding, you might be wondering what your pet’s day will look like during his stay. A quality boarding facility will offer more than just a kennel.

• Comfortable accommodations: Private spaces with clean bedding and temperature control
• Feeding and medication routines: Personalized to your pet’s diet and medical needs
• Daily exercise: Regular walks or play sessions to keep your pooch happy
• Veterinarian oversight: Medical care available on-site in case of emergency
• Social interaction: Optional playtime with other pets or staff members

At Plateau Animal Hospital, your pet’s comfort and safety come first. Our animal hospital staff is trained to provide attentive care whether it’s a single overnight stay or a full week of pampering. The AKC has a helpful article on pet boarding here.

Choosing a Boarding Facility That’s Right for Your Pet

Every pet is unique—so it’s important to select a boarding option that fits his personality, health needs, and routine. When choosing a boarding facility, consider the following:

• Does the staff have veterinary training or access to a veterinarian?
• Are the sleeping areas clean, quiet, and temperature-controlled?
• Are there opportunities for exercise and enrichment?
• Will your pet be able to socialize or have solo time if preferred?
• Can the team administer medications or special diets?

A tour is highly recommended. At our veterinary clinic in Cumberland County, we encourage pet parents to stop by, meet the staff, and see our boarding areas before booking. 

Preparing Your Pet for an Overnight Stay

Before your pup or kitty checks in for their stay, take steps to help them feel comfortable. Here’s what to pack and prepare:

• Food and treats: Keep their diet consistent to avoid tummy troubles
• Toys or blankets: Familiar smells reduce anxiety
• Updated medical records: Proof of vaccines is usually required
• Comfort items: A shirt that smells like you can be soothing
• Clear instructions: Provide feeding, medication, and behavior notes

Our vets will review your pet’s file and ensure everything is ready for a stress-free stay. Your pet will also need to be fully vaccinated. You can check our prior blog here for more information on that. 

How to Make Boarding Stress-Free for You and Your Pet

Some pets may feel nervous about being away from home, especially for the first time. You can help ease their anxiety with a few simple strategies:

• Do a short trial stay first
• Visit the facility together before the big stay
• Keep drop-off calm and upbeat
• Stick to familiar routines where possible
• Trust the team and avoid frequent check-ins that may delay your pet’s adjustment

Our team at Plateau Animal Hospital works hard to make sure every pet feels at home. Whether your furry bestie is here for an overnight stay or a longer visit, we provide consistent care and lots of love. Choosing the right kennel will also go a long way. Purina UK has a helpful article on that: click here to read.

FAQ

What’s the difference between pet sitting and pet boarding?

Pet sitting typically takes place in your home, while pet boarding happens at a facility staffed with trained caregivers and often connected to a vet clinic.

How far in advance should I book boarding?

It depends on the season. For holidays and summer, book at least a month ahead. For off-peak times, a week or two is often sufficient.

Is pet boarding safe?

Yes—especially at facilities like ours where veterinarians and trained staff are on-site. Safety and comfort are our top priorities.

Can my dog get sick from boarding?

As with any environment with other animals, there’s a small risk. That’s why vaccinations are required. Our veterinary clinic ensures all pets are protected.

Do you board cats as well?

Absolutely! Fluffy will enjoy her own quiet, cozy space away from our canine guests.

Schedule an Appointment at Our Cumberland County Pet Clinic

When you’re heading out of town, let us care for your pet like one of our own. At Plateau Animal Hospital, our veterinarians provide safe, friendly, and reliable pet boarding for dogs and cats in Cumberland County and surrounding areas.

Are you looking for a trustworthy vet near me for overnight boarding? Give us a call or stop by for a tour—we’d love to meet you and your furry pal.

Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see.

Reliable pet boarding keeps your pet safe, happy, and healthy while you’re away. Let us help make your next trip worry-free—schedule your boarding stay today.

This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your veterinarian about health, behavior, and boarding needs for your pet.