By Pamela Steward · Kanine Country Club · Oct 19, 2026
Leaving your dog for a few days is easier on everyone when you plan ahead. At Kanine Country Club in Sperry, Iowa, we board dogs for vacations, business trips and weekend getaways, and the stays that go best are the ones where owners prepared a little first. Here is what we suggest.
Start with a conversation
Before you book, tell us about your dog: age, breed, size, energy level and how they do around other dogs. Be honest about quirks. A dog who is nervous at the door, pulls on the leash or guards a toy is not a problem as long as we know ahead of time. You can send all of this in our boarding request form or call 319-759-4210.
Get vaccinations and paperwork in order
Dogs should be up to date on vaccinations before a stay. Check your dog’s records a few weeks before you travel so there is time to schedule a vet visit if something is due. When you request a stay, tell us your dog’s status and we will go over exact requirements with you when we confirm.
Share health needs and medications
List any medications, allergies, special diets or past injuries. Write down the dose and timing for every medication, and bring it in its original container. The more specific the instructions, the easier it is to keep your dog on their normal routine while you are gone.
Pack the essentials
Bring enough of your dog’s regular food for the whole stay, plus a little extra in case you are delayed coming home. Switching food suddenly can upset a dog’s stomach, so stick with what they know. A favorite blanket or toy that smells like home can help a dog settle in. Label everything you bring with your dog’s name.
Keep their routine in mind
Tell us when your dog usually eats, goes out and sleeps, and what words or cues they know. Dogs are creatures of habit, and a stay feels easier when the day looks familiar. If your dog is shy with strangers or afraid of thunder, tell us so we can plan around it.
Think about play and socializing
Some dogs love to play all day and some prefer a quiet spot. Let us know which your dog is. If they have not spent much time around other dogs, mention that too. We would rather take a careful approach than rush a first introduction.
Keep goodbyes short and calm
Dogs pick up on our feelings. A long, emotional goodbye can make a dog anxious, while a short, cheerful one tells them everything is fine. Hand over the leash, say a quick goodbye and head out knowing they are in good hands.
Confirm dates and contact details
Double check your drop-off and pick-up dates and make sure we have a phone number that you will actually answer while traveling. If your plans change, call us as early as you can so we can adjust.
A quick checklist
Vaccination records ready. Health needs and medications written down. Regular food packed with extra. Favorite blanket or toy labeled. Routine, fears and play style shared with us. Dates confirmed.
Ready to book?
Send a boarding request or call 319-759-4210 and we will confirm availability. Have more questions? Read our FAQ or see how to find us in Sperry.