Planning a getaway or work trip and leaving your pup in the care of a boarding hotel? First of all, you’re doing a great thing by choosing a professional, safe, and social environment for your dog while you’re away. But now comes the question: what exactly should you pack for your pup’s stay? Just like sending a kid off to camp, there’s a sweet spot between overpacking and not sending enough. Let’s walk through the essentials, the extras, and the things to leave at home—especially when your dog is staying with us at Doggie Dude Ranch & the O’Cat Corral.

🐾 The Must-Haves

1. Food & Feeding Instructions
One of the most important things to pack is your dog’s regular food. A sudden switch in diet can lead to upset stomachs and digestive issues—not a great way to spend a vacation! Bring enough food for the entire stay, plus a little extra just in case plans change or your return is delayed.

Also, don’t forget to include:

  • Clear written feeding instructions (amount, frequency, special prep if needed)
  • Any supplements or medications (more on that below)

At Doggie Dude Ranch, we’re happy to follow your feeding schedule and any special instructions. The more detail you provide, the better we can mimic your dog’s home routine.

2. Medications (If Applicable)
If your dog takes any medications, pack them in their original container and provide detailed written instructions. Include the dosage, frequency, and any tips that might help us give it (like hiding pills in peanut butter). We’re pros at administering meds, so rest assured your pup will stay on schedule.

3. Up-to-Date Vaccination Records
All reputable boarding facilities—including Doggie Dude Ranch—require proof of up-to-date vaccinations. Before you arrive, make sure we’ve received your dog’s records or bring a copy with you. Required vaccines include:

  • Rabies
  • Distemper/Parvo (DAPP)
  • Bordetella (kennel cough)

We recommend emailing these ahead of time or uploading them through our client portal to streamline check-in.

🧸 Comfort Items (Within Reason)

Your pup is going to be in good hands, but bringing a few familiar items from home can make the transition smoother, especially for dogs who are new to boarding.

Here’s what to bring:

  • Up to 2 toys or chews – Something they enjoy, but nothing too precious or irreplaceable.
  • One bed or blanket – A soft, familiar-smelling item can go a long way in helping your dog feel at ease.

At Doggie Dude Ranch, we’ll do everything we can to keep these items safe, but we do suggest avoiding irreplaceable favorites just in case they get worn or lost in the shuffle. Chew toys like Nylabones or rubber toys are perfect. Leave rawhides, bully sticks, or overly messy chews at home—they’re harder to supervise safely in a group setting.

❌ What NOT to Bring

There are a few things that we kindly ask pet parents not to bring to Doggie Dude Ranch:

  • Bowls – We provide clean, sanitized stainless-steel bowls for all our guests.
  • Large bedding or bulky crates – We offer comfy accommodations, and oversized items can be difficult to store and clean.
  • Excessive toys or belongings – Stick to the 2 toys and 1 bed rule to help us stay organized and avoid mix-ups.
  • Food that requires cooking or refrigeration – Unfortunately, we can’t prepare meals that require cooking or extensive refrigeration. Dry or shelf-stable wet food is perfect.

🏡 Creating a Home Away From Home

Your dog may be staying in a new place, but our goal at Doggie Dude Ranch & the O’Cat Corral is to provide as much comfort and consistency as possible. By packing a few essentials from home, you’re setting your pup up for a stress-free, tail-wagging stay.

Here are a few final tips to help you and your pup feel more prepared:

  • Label everything – Toys, food containers, medications—make sure your dog’s name is on each item.
  • Avoid “last-minute” meals – Don’t overfeed your pup just before drop-off. A light meal a few hours before arrival is usually best.
  • Walk it out – A little exercise before arriving at the boarding facility helps burn off nervous energy and makes check-in smoother.
  • Stay calm and confident – Your dog picks up on your energy! Keep drop-off upbeat and short—no big emotional goodbyes.

🌟 Why Choose Doggie Dude Ranch & the O’Cat Corral?

Our goal isn’t just to watch your dog—we’re here to make sure they thrive while you’re away.

At Doggie Dude Ranch, dogs enjoy:

  • Spacious outdoor areas for play, sniffing, and socializing
  • Climate-controlled indoor spaces for cozy rest time
  • Plenty of love, pets, and attention from our experienced staff
  • Social group play based on size, temperament, and energy levels
  • A full-size in-ground swimming pool during warmer months
  • Enrichment activities to keep minds sharp and tails wagging

We understand that every dog is different. Whether your pup is a social butterfly or more of a solo snoozer, we tailor our care to meet their individual needs. And for first-timers, we offer trial daycare visits to help ease the transition into boarding.

If your travels take you away from Denver and you need a safe, loving place for your dog to stay, Doggie Dude Ranch & the O’Cat Corral is here for you. We’re more than a kennel—we’re a home away from home.

🐶 Ready to book your dog’s stay or want more details?
Visit our boarding prep page to get started or contact us with any questions. We can’t wait to meet your furry friend!