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Preparing for Pet Boarding: A Health Checklist

September 22, 2024

Have you ever been in a mad panic trying to get everything ready for your upcoming holiday, only to realise at the last minute that your furry friend isn’t up to date on their vaccines? We’ve all been there, and it’s no fun trying to book that vet appointment at the 11th hour.
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. We’ve put together the ultimate pet boarding checklist so you can relax knowing your pup or cat is ready for their stay at Tallowood Boarding Lodge. Let’s go over all the health and vaccine bases, from kennel cough prevention to microchipping. With our checklist, you can avoid the last-minute stresses and be confident your pet is primed for a fun, safe dog boarding or cattery stay.

Vaccination (Essential)

C5 Vaccination for Dogs

Why It’s Crucial
The C5 vaccination protects your furry pal against five potentially deadly diseases – parvo, distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and two coronavirus strains. These nasty bugs can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, and even fatal complications in unvaccinated pups. Don’t risk it – the C5 shot is a must for boarding.
When to Vaccinate
Puppies need a series of C5 vaccines, typically given at 8, 12, and 16 weeks old. After that, annual boosters are recommended to maintain immunity. Many boarding facilities require proof of a C5 vaccine within the past 12 months before accepting your dog.
Peace of Mind
By ensuring your pooch is up-to-date on their C5 shot, you can rest easy knowing they’re protected from some of the most common and dangerous canine diseases. It’s a small price for the reassurance that your beloved companion will stay healthy and safe during their boarding stay.

F3 Vaccination for Cats

Why It’s Crucial
The F3 vaccination provides protection against:
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus): This virus primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis. In more severe cases, particularly in young kittens or immunocompromised cats, it can escalate to pneumonia. Vaccination is vital to prevent outbreaks in boarding facilities.
Feline Calicivirus: A common cause of upper respiratory infections, calicivirus presents with symptoms like oral ulcers, sneezing, and nasal congestion. In more severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia or chronic stomatitis. The F3 vaccine is critical in protecting your cat from this widespread virus, ensuring their health during their stay.
Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper): This highly contagious and often fatal virus attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing severe vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, and a significant drop in white blood cells, which increases the risk of secondary infections. Vaccination against panleukopenia is crucial to prevent this life-threatening disease.
Vaccination Schedule for Kittens
Under 8 weeks old: Kittens need three doses of the F3 vaccine, given every 4 weeks.
8 to 12 weeks old: Kittens should receive two doses of the F3 vaccine, administered 4 weeks apart.
16 to 18 weeks old: A final dose of the F3 vaccine is required to complete the vaccination series.
Adult Cats
For adult cats, an annual booster of the F3 vaccine is advised. However, for indoor cats with minimal exposure to other cats, the F3 vaccine may be administered every 2-3 years, though this is not the standard recommendation.

Parasite Prevention

Don’t Let Pests Bug Your Pet

Ensuring your furry friend is free of nasty critters is crucial before boarding. Fleas, ticks, and worms can spread like wildfire in close quarters – yuck! Protect your pal with preventative treatments.
Flea and Tick Control
Fleas and ticks aren’t just annoying, they can transmit diseases. Use a vet-approved spot-on or oral medication before boarding to kill any freeloaders and prevent new infestations. Some options provide month-long protection for peace of mind.
Worm Your Worries Away
Intestinal worms are more common than you’d think, even in well-cared-for pets. Deworming treatments safely eliminate roundworms, hookworms and more. Ask your vet about oral deworming every 3-6 months.
Tallowood’s Pest Protocols
At Tallowood Boarding Lodge, we have stringent sanitation practices and treat any infestations immediately. But prevention is ideal – so please ensure your pet is up-to-date on all parasite control before their stay. Our caring staff is happy to recommend suitable products too!

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Diet and Medical Requirements

Special Diets

Are you boarding your furry friend at Tallowood while you’re away? Make sure their dietary needs are met. Let us know if they require a special diet – whether it’s for medical reasons or just fussy eating habits. We’ve got all sorts of options covered, from grain-free to low-fat.

Medication

If your pet is on any regular medication, no worries! Our caring staff will ensure they get their doses on schedule. Just bring enough for their stay and clear instructions. We’ll have them feeling their best the whole time.

Health Updates

Had any recent vet visits or health issues? Keep us in the loop! Providing detailed updates on your pet’s medical history helps us give them the personalised care they need. We want every guest to feel right at home.
With their diet and medication sorted, your pal can kick back and focus on having fun. Our team is equipped to handle any special requirements – so you can travel without a care!

Heartworm Prevention

Know the Risks

Heartworm disease is a serious condition caused by parasitic worms. It’s transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal for dogs and cats. Even indoor pets are at risk if infected mosquitoes get inside.

Year-Round Protection

The best way to protect your furry friend is through year-round prevention medication. These pills or topical treatments kill any immature heartworms before they develop into adults. Don’t skip a dose – it takes just one infected mosquito bite to start an infestation.

Tallowood’s Expertise

At Tallowood Boarding Lodge, we understand the importance of heartworm prevention. Our team will ensure your pet stays on their preventative treatment schedule while boarding with us. We also recommend getting your pet tested before and after their stay as an extra precaution.
No pet parent wants to see their beloved companion suffer from this devastating disease. Stay vigilant with prevention, and let the experts at Tallowood give you peace of mind when boarding your pet.

Update Microchip Details

Ensure Details are Current

Before you send your furry friend off to their vacation home, take a moment to confirm their microchip details are up-to-date. You’d be surprised how many pets go missing each year due to outdated contact information.
A quick call to the microchip company is all it takes to verify the address, phone numbers and emergency contacts linked to your pet’s chip are accurate. This simple step could make reuniting with your lost pet a whole lot easier if the unthinkable happens while they’re away.

Register for Added Protection

Many microchip companies also offer additional protection services you can sign up for, like lost pet recovery assistance. For a small annual fee, you get expert support to help bring your wandering pet back home safely.
These services use the microchip details to rapidly coordinate with vets, shelters and pet professionals across the country. So registering gives you an entire team dedicated to your pet’s safe return – priceless peace of mind!

Ready, Set, Board: Ensuring Your Pet’s Comfort

So there you have it, a checklist to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy before their stay with us here at Tallowood Boarding Lodge. By making sure their vaccinations are up to date, packing their medications and supplements, bringing their favourite toys and treats, and giving them a nice brushing beforehand, you’ll ensure your pet is ready for a fun and relaxing holiday. We can’t wait to give your pet some TLC in our award-winning facilities. Just don’t forget to book early, as spaces fill up fast – we’re the top choice in luxury pet accommodation for a reason! Rest assured your pet is in good hands with us.


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