2. Check Your Pet’s Vaccination Records
To ensure the safety and well-being of all pets in our care, a reputable boarding facility will require up-to-date vaccinations and tests for parasites. Before boarding with us, make sure your pet’s vaccinations are current:  For cats, we require rabies, FVRCP, and FELV vaccination, as well as a negative parasite check/test within a year or boarding; for dogs, we require rabies, DA2PLCPV, canine influenza, and bordatella vaccination, in addition to a negative parasite check/test within a year of boarding. If you’re unsure about your pet’s vaccination status, contact your veterinarian well in advance of your pet’s stay. Having these records ready in plenty of time will help streamline the check-in process and ensure your pet is ready for a fun, safe stay.

3. Make Time for a Trial Stay
If your pet has never been boarded before or is prone to separation anxiety, consider scheduling a short trial stay. This will allow your furry friend to become familiar with our team and the facility without the stress of a long absence. At Heilmeier’s Bed & Biscuit, we take pride in providing a calm and caring environment for both cats and dogs. Our feline facility is located far enough away from the kennel area to give them the peace and quiet they crave, while our canine guests will enjoy plenty of opportunities to exercise safely and comfortably in private fenced outdoor areas.  Whether your pet is staying in our cat condos, chilling in an indoor run, or enjoying one of our luxury dog suites, this brief introduction can ease any concerns and help your pet adjust more easily when it’s time for their extended stay.

4. Pack Comforts from Home
Just like humans, pets appreciate familiar items when adjusting to a new environment. When preparing your pet for boarding at our luxury facility in Foley, consider packing a few items from home, such as their favorite blanket, toy, or bed. The familiar scent and feel of these items can provide your pet with comfort and reassurance during their stay. Our luxury suites for dogs already offer plenty of comfort, but a few home items can make the experience even better.

5. Maintain Your Pet’s Routine
Pets thrive on routine, so keeping their schedule as consistent as possible is crucial during their stay. When you bring your pet to Heilmeier’s Bed & Biscuit, let us know about their feeding schedule, exercise needs, and any medication they might require. We typically provide Science Diet Adult to our boarders, but if your pet requires a specific food, bring enough to last their stay and we’ll follow your feeding instructions to a T!  Our team is dedicated to helping your pet adjust to boarding successfully, and we’ll do all we can to provide consistency to minimize any stress or confusion and keep your pet happy and healthy.

6. Prepare for Separation Anxiety
It’s not uncommon for pets to experience some level of separation anxiety when their owners are away. To help with this, consider leaving a piece of your clothing with your pet. The familiar scent can comfort your dog or cat while you’re apart. Our caring staff at Heilmeier’s Bed & Biscuit in Foley, AL is experienced in providing pets with the attention and affection they need to feel at ease, whether they’re staying for a day of doggie daycare or an extended boarding stay in our luxury accommodations.

7. Make Sure Your Pet’s ID Tags Are Up-to-Date
Before boarding your pet, double-check that their ID tags contain accurate and up-to-date information. While our facility is highly secure, and we ensure pets are monitored at all times, it’s always a good idea to make sure your contact information is visible on your pet’s collar, just in case something unpredictable happens during their stay or while they’re traveling to or from home. We also recommend pet-owners consider microchipping their pet for an added layer of security—a wise decision whether or not you ever board your cat or dog.

8. Relax—Your Pet Is in Good Hands!
Leaving your pet behind can be stressful, but with the quality services offered at Heilmeier’s Bed & Biscuit, you can rest assured knowing they’re in the best care possible. Our services are designed to pamper your pet while keeping them engaged, active, and loved. We strive to make your pet’s time with us as enjoyable as possible—and even better, we have a full veterinary practice on-site.  Our partners at Animal Medical Center will be on hand during their regular hours of operation to assist with any concerns, providing fast, expert care if your precious pet needs it.