Leaving Town? WHAT TO LEAVE FOR YOUR DOG
A dog boarding facility will make sure all your dog's most basic needs are met. He'll get food, water, a place to run, and a place to sleep. But "just the basics" won't help make him feel better when he begins to miss you. Make sure he has a few comfort items from home to make the separation easier:
Food from home - Dogs don't usually do very well with radical changes in their diet. Make sure the kennel will feed your dog the food he eats at home. Just the fact that he's in an unfamiliar place could wreak havoc on his intestines, but you don't want to make it worse with a new type of food. Bring his food and water
bowls from home, too, to increase his sense of familiarity.
A favorite toy - Whether it's that ratty old tennis ball or his chewed-up rubber bone, a familiar toy will go a long way in keeping your pooch calm and happy while you're gone. Most kennels will have lots of
toys for the dogs to play with, but one that's his from home will be valuable. Make sure staff knows to keep the toy in his cage and away from the other dogs.
Treats - If the kennel allows it, deliver your dog with a stash of his favorite treats and some suggestions on when to give him one.
A blanket or piece of clothing - 
Because dogs have such an incredible sense of smell, a piece of clothing or blanket that smells like you can greatly soothe an anxious pup. Let kennel staff know that the item should only be kept in your dog's private cage, rather than in common areas.
Medications and remedies - Make sure the staff is familiar with your dog's conditions, even minor ones like dry
skin, and provide any necessary medications or treatments he'll need while you're gone.
Keep Your Dog's Comfort in Mind
No matter which kennel you choose, and no matter which
items you bring to help your pooch feel better, you should have his comfort and safety in mind at all times. Don't use a kennel that doesn't provide quality care in all aspects, and that means going beyond the basics.
