Nutrition · September 19, 2026 · 8 min read
Food during boarding: one less variable for the stomach
Label every container and explain appetite, allergies, treats, and preparation. When diarrhea appears, a stable routine makes it easier to reconstruct what changed.
WSAVA includes nutrition in health assessment. During boarding, that begins with what the dog eats, how much is served, and what normal appetite looks like. A change of place already alters many things. Introducing a new food at the same time adds an unnecessary variable.
| Portions | Send the familiar diet in portions or with an exact amount. |
|---|---|
| Schedule | Write down timing, preparation, allergies, and permitted treats. |
| Routine | Describe normal eating and whether the dog needs separation. |
| Before booking | Seek advice for persistent diarrhea, blood, vomiting, or low energy. |
Pack measured grams, not handfuls
Divide food into dated meal portions. Write the weight in grams, feeding time, serving method, and treat limit. A cup can vary greatly depending on who fills it. Keep food in the original package or send a clear photo of the lot and expiration date so it can be traced if a problem appears.
Do not introduce a new food, supplement, or treat on check-in day. If a change is unavoidable, agree on the transition with the veterinarian and facility. Ask staff to record appetite, vomiting, and stool consistency. Repeated diarrhea, blood, pain, lethargy, or refusal to drink needs a call, not an improvised serving of another food.
Sources consulted
Adapted from WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and applied to dog boarding.
