Leaving your dog overnight is easier when you prepare the practical details before drop-off. Confirm vaccinations, organize medications and special food, share your pet’s routine and keep your goodbye calm. Choosing a boarding facility with clear procedures and an engaging daily schedule can also help both you and your pet feel more comfortable.
Tailwaggers Country Inn is a full-service, all-inclusive pet resort in Van Alstyne. Because beds, bedding, bowls, food, toys and everyday supplies are provided, most families only need to bring required records, medications and prescription or sensitive-stomach food.
1. Confirm Vaccination Records Before the Stay
Do not wait until drop-off to locate your dog’s records. Tailwaggers requires current Rabies and Distemper/Parvo vaccinations, with Bordetella given within six months of the stay. Records may be emailed in advance or delivered at boarding. If your pet cannot receive a required vaccination, ask your veterinarian to send an exemption note. Review the current preparation requirements before each visit because policies may change.
2. Label Food and Medications Clearly
Tailwaggers supplies Fromm Family Pet Food in Classic Adult chicken and whitefish blends. If your dog needs a prescription diet or has a sensitive stomach, divide the food into individual bags for each meal and include clear feeding instructions. Avoid large containers and paper bags. Send medications in their original containers with the correct dose and time of day.
3. Share Your Pet’s Routine and Special Needs
Tell the team about meal times, medications, allergies, mobility concerns, behavior triggers and anything that helps your dog settle. Include your veterinarian’s contact information and an emergency contact. Honest details about reactivity, guarding, anxiety or escape behavior allow the boarding team to make safer care decisions.
4. Do Not Worry About Bringing Everyday Supplies
Tailwaggers supplies elevated orthopedic beds, clean bedding, food and water bowls, leashes, toys, balls, treats and grooming products. Avoid sending valuables or anything that must return home, since personal items may be lost, chewed or damaged during an active stay.
5. Follow Tailwaggers’ Identification and Collar Policy
For safety, Tailwaggers removes your pet’s personal collar at drop-off and returns it to you. During the stay, your pet receives a temporary breakaway collar and a computer-generated identification record with important pet and parent information. This reduces collar-related risks during supervised play while helping the team maintain clear identification. Review the complete What to Bring guidance before arrival.
6. Consider a Trial Day Before the First Overnight Visit
A daycare visit can introduce your dog to the staff, facility and activity schedule before an overnight stay. Tailwaggers recommends daycare for first-time boarding guests when appropriate. Reserve early enough to allow time for a trial visit, especially before holidays and summer travel.
7. Keep Drop-Off and Goodbyes Calm
Complete forms, records and questions in advance when possible. At drop-off, stay relaxed and keep your goodbye brief. A calm transition gives staff members space to welcome your pet and begin the new routine.
8. Choose the Right Accommodations
Ask which suite best fits your dog’s size, temperament and your preferences. Tailwaggers provides spacious accommodations with daily-cleaned bedding and all-inclusive care. Select VIP suites include televisions and private covered patios. Pet parents can also use the VIP suite webcams, available 24/7, to feel connected while traveling.
9. Book Transportation or Grooming in Advance
Tailwaggers offers optional door-to-door transportation in Dallas, Collin and Grayson counties, as well as grooming services. Add these requests when reserving so the team can confirm schedules, availability and current pricing.
What Your Pet Can Expect at Tailwaggers
Guests enjoy supervised group play, four or more play periods, appropriate social time, balanced meals, cuddle time and access to 34 country acres with designated fenced play parks. The resort also has an in-ground filtered pool and an indoor gym for weather-limited days. Activities are based on each pet’s needs and safe participation.
Plan Your Pet’s Overnight Stay
Preparing early gives you time to resolve missing records, discuss special instructions and select the right services. Call Tailwaggers Country Inn at 1-877-774-DOGS or make a reservation online. First-time customers should ask about the first-night-free program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring When Leaving My Dog Overnight?
At Tailwaggers, bring current vaccination records, medications and any prescription or sensitive-stomach food. The resort supplies beds, bedding, bowls, standard food, toys and other everyday items.
Should My Dog Wear a Collar While Boarding?
Tailwaggers removes personal collars at drop-off for safety and uses a temporary breakaway collar during the stay.
How Early Should I Book Overnight Boarding?
Book as early as possible for holidays and summer, which are typically the busiest periods. Early planning also allows time to confirm vaccination records and schedule a daycare trial if appropriate.