Holiday Boarding Tips: Booking Early & Making It Stress-Free
The holidays are busy for you — and stressful for your pup. Planning ahead for dog boarding is the best way to make the season joyful (and less stressful for both of you).
Why Holiday Boarding Fills Up Fast
Thanksgiving and Christmas are the busiest travel seasons of the year. Families hit the road, airports are packed, and dog parents across the Salt Lake Valley are looking for trusted pet care. Dog Boarding spots book quickly — often weeks in advance — and waiting until the last minute may mean scrambling for a solution.
Booking early guarantees your pup a safe, cozy spot at Unleashed Dog Hotel while you travel stress-free.
The Stress Travel Adds to Dogs
Holiday travel doesn’t just stress humans — it’s tough on pets, too. Loud airports, unfamiliar hotel rooms, and disrupted routines can cause:
Excessive panting, pacing, and drool
Whining or barking
Digestive upset (Wet stool in a kennel while traveling is our worst nightmare 😩)
Separation anxiety when left in hotel rooms or unfamiliar family homes
Flying with your dog can be especially stressful due to noise, crowds, and limited bathroom breaks. Not to mention how terrifying it must be underneath the plane away from their humans. For many dogs, staying in a familiar, structured boarding facility is the kinder, safer option.
Holiday Boarding Tips for a Stress-Free Season
Here are some ways to make boarding during the holidays smooth for you and your pup:
1. Book Early
Reserve your spot as soon as your travel plans are confirmed. Since Salt Lake City has an international airport, holiday boarding in the valley fills up fast — avoid the disappointment of a waitlist.
2. Schedule a Temperament Test
If it’s your dog’s first time boarding, a temperament test prior to their stay ensures they’re comfortable in playgroups and will enjoy their stay. Temperament tests are limited and by appointment only, booking early will make drop off day a breeze.
3. Pack Familiar Comforts
Bring your dog’s favorite toy, blanket, or bed to help them feel secure in their suite. Familiar smells = comfort. Limiting the number of items you bring for your dog, reduces clutter in their suite and lowers the risk of misplaced items.
4. Keep Vaccinations Up-to-Date
Most facilities, including Unleashed Dog Hotel, require current vaccinations to protect all pups. Check [requirements] before [boarding].
5. Stick to Routine Before Drop-Off
Feed your dog their regular meal and give them a good walk before check-in. A sense of normalcy lowers anxiety.
6. Consider Extra Enrichment
At Unleashed, we offer add-ons like grooming, pool time, and one-on-one play. Enrichment keeps dogs happy and helps them burn energy while you’re away.
Why Choose Unleashed Dog Hotel for Holiday Boarding?
At Unleashed Dog Hotel in Murray, UT, your pup will enjoy:
Spacious, luxury boarding suites
Safe, supervised playgroups
Indoor & outdoor play areas (including our bone-shaped pool 🐾💦)
Professional grooming services to send your dog home fresh for the holidays
We know the holidays are busy. Let us give your dog a home-away-from-home so you can focus on family, food, and fun.
Happy Holidays From Unleashed Dog Hotel
Holiday travel can be stressful — but your dog’s boarding experience doesn’t have to be. By booking early, preparing ahead, and choosing a trusted facility, you’ll make the season smoother for both you and your pup.