Your Dog’s First Kennel Stay:
A Complete Guide for Dog Owners

Preparing For Your Dogs First Kennel Stay

So, you’ve got a holiday planned, a family emergency to handle, or just need a trusted break for your four-legged friend. Whatever the reason, if you’re considering boarding kennels in Leicestershire for the first time, it’s natural to have questions. Will your dog feel safe? Will they eat well? Will they miss you?

At Wags Dog Care, we get it. As proud dog owners ourselves, we know how big of a deal it is to leave your pup with someone else — especially for the first time. This blog will help you prepare for that first kennel stay, ease your worries, and show you why choosing the right kennel matters.

Why Consider Dog Kennels in the First Place?

Sometimes, friends or family aren’t available to watch your pet. Maybe you don’t feel entirely confident in a pet-sitter popping in and out. That’s where quality dog kennels come into play — especially reputable, licensed ones like Wags Dog Care in Leicestershire.

A well-run boarding kennel gives your dog a safe environment, regular routines, mental stimulation, and — most importantly — loving care. Instead of being left alone or feeling anxious, they’re surrounded by professionals who know how to look after dogs of all breeds and temperaments.

But even with all the pros, that first time can still feel a bit daunting, right?

What to Expect from Your Dog’s First Stay at a Boarding Kennel

Drop-Off Day Might Feel Emotional
Let’s be honest — the hardest part of the first kennel stay is usually not the dog. It’s us, the humans! Your pup might wag its tail happily, unaware of what’s happening, while you feel like you’re leaving your child at school for the first time.

Don’t worry — we’re used to that. And rest assured, we’ve got years of experience easing both dogs and owners into the routine.

Settling In Takes Time
Most dogs adapt far quicker than their owners expect. It’s totally normal for your pup to be a bit confused at first. They’ll sniff around, check out the new smells and sounds, and slowly realise they’re safe here. At Wags Dog Care, our team keeps a close eye on all first-time boarders and gives them extra attention to help them feel secure.
Routine Is Key
Dogs thrive on routine. We make sure your pup gets meals, toilet breaks, playtime, and rest at regular intervals. The aim? To make the kennel environment feel predictable and comforting — just like home.
Socialisation Opportunities
Depending on your dog’s temperament, they might be able to meet and interact with other dogs in a controlled and supervised setting. It’s a great way for social pups to make new friends!

How to Prepare for Your Dog’s First Kennel Stay

Preparation can make all the difference when it comes to a smooth first boarding experience. Here’s how to set your dog up for success:

Bring Familiar Items
Pack a favourite toy, a blanket, or even a T-shirt that smells like you. These items provide comfort and a sense of familiarity during the stay.

Stick to Regular Feeding
We recommend bringing your dog’s usual food, so their diet stays consistent. A sudden change in food can upset their stomach, which is the last thing anyone wants.

Visit Before the Stay
We encourage all first-time clients in Leicestershire to visit Wags Dog Care for a quick tour or short stay before the main boarding begins. This helps your dog become familiar with the sights, smells, and sounds of the kennel.

Stay Calm at Drop-Off
Dogs are great at picking up on our emotions. If you act calm and cheerful when dropping them off, your dog is more likely to feel relaxed too.

Check Vaccination Records
Make sure your dog is up to date with their vaccinations — particularly kennel cough — before boarding. It’s for everyone’s safety, including your pup’s.

Why Choose Wags Dog Care in Leicestershire?

There are plenty of boarding kennels around, but not all are created equal. At Wags Dog Care, we pride ourselves on delivering a personal, attentive service that truly puts dogs first.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Family-Run with a Passion for Pups: We treat every dog like one of our own. That’s not just a tagline — it’s our way of life.
Spacious, Comfortable Kennels: Our boarding kennels in Leicestershire are designed to provide both safety and comfort, with ample room to move, play, and relax.
Tailored Care Plans: Whether your dog is energetic, elderly, shy, or full of beans — we adapt to meet their needs.
Licensed and Experienced Staff: We’re fully licensed and trained, with years of experience caring for dogs of all sizes and personalities.
Open Communication: Want to check in on your dog while you’re away? No problem. We’re always happy to provide updates and reassurance.

We’re not just a kennel. We’re a trusted part of the Leicestershire dog-owning community.

Common Questions from First-Time Boarders

Can we visit the kennels first?
Yes!

Will my dog be lonely or sad?
Most dogs settle in much faster than expected, especially when their routine is maintained, and they get plenty of human interaction and playtime.

Can I bring my dog’s favourite toy or blanket?
Absolutely! Familiar smells and items go a long way in helping dogs feel safe and secure.

What if my dog doesn’t get along with others?
Not to worry. At Wags, dogs are only allowed to mix under strict supervision, and only if they’re sociable and happy to do so. Otherwise, we provide individual care tailored to your dog’s needs.

How do you keep the dogs safe and healthy?
We follow strict hygiene protocols, maintain high standards of cleanliness, and ensure all dogs are vaccinated before boarding.

Make Their First Stay a Positive One

Sending your dog to a boarding kennel for the first time can feel like a big step — and it is. But with the right preparation and the right team looking after your dog, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.

At Wags Dog Care, we’re here to make sure your dog feels safe, loved, and well looked after while you’re away. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer trip, we’re proud to be a trusted part of the dog care community in Leicestershire.

If you’re still on the fence or have questions, why not come by for a visit? We’d love to show you around, meet your dog, and help you feel 100% confident that you’ve made the right choice.