Heading out of town and need to book a “mini-vacation” for your best friend? A short packing checklist can keep drop-offs smooth and pets comfy.
While every pet resort has its own policies and protocols, these quick guidelines cover the biggies—meals, medications, bedding, and toys—so you can prep like a pro.
Tip 1: Keep the Menu Familiar
While many pet resorts provide dog food either as part of a package or for a nominal fee, others welcome your pet’s regular diet delivered from home, so mealtime stays consistent. The best practice when sending something from home? Pre-portion and label each meal with your pet’s name and feeding time. Include written instructions (amounts, special notes, allergies). If the resort offers house food, ask which brand they use in case you prefer that option.
Tip 2: Keep Meds Clearly Labeled and Simple
For safety and accuracy, send medications in their original prescription containers with clear written directions (dose, timing, any “with food” notes). Tuck a printed summary into your bag so staff can double-check at intake. If your pet takes supplements, be sure to list those, too. An important note: For the health and safety of your pup, our staff, and other guests, never add medications or supplements to your pet’s food.
Tip 3: Adhere to Bedtime Best Practices
The best facilities pride themselves on providing clean bedding, so check ahead of time: you may not need to pack essentials. If allowed, a small blanket or t-shirt with your scent can be a wonderful comfort cue (just be sure to avoid anything irreplaceable). Check your resort’s policy on personal items and laundry before bringing bulky bedding.
Tip 4: Toys R… Optional (At Most)
Because reputable resorts rotate sanitized, supervised toys, personal items from home are sometimes discouraged (or limited) to maintain safety and cleanliness. If permitted, consider sending just one clearly labeled soft item, nothing with strings, rawhide, or parts that could break off and become choking hazards.
How Four Paws Inn Makes Packing Easy
Here’s exactly what to know for Four Paws Inn in Converse, TX:
- When it comes to food, we recommend owners bring their dog’s regular food to maintain dietary consistency. We simply ask that you bag and label each meal separately. We also provide high-quality, well-balanced commercial dog food at no extra charge.
- Favorite toys should stay at home. We’ve got plenty of fun, regularly cleaned toys, so there’s no need to pack extras. Bones and rawhides are not permitted. If you have a specific item in mind that you’d like to inquire about–by all means, reach out and ask. We’re here to help.
- If your pet takes special medication, we will make sure they have it on schedule. Please pack prescriptions in their original containers with clear directions, and our staff will administer them as instructed.
With spacious, climate-controlled lodging, attentive care, and optional playtime add-ons, Four Paws Inn keeps your pet happy and comfortable while you’re away—so packing stays simple and your best friend enjoys a cozy, well-cared-for stay. Questions? Reach out to our team to learn more and to schedule your stay.