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Joppa, MD (410) 671-7529 Cockeysville, MD (410) 773-7529

Leaving your dog for boarding can bring up a lot of emotions.

Even when you know you’ve chosen a safe and loving place, it’s completely normal to feel nervous — especially if your dog is sensitive, anxious, or deeply attached to you.

At Best Friends Fur Ever, we understand that boarding isn’t just about where your dog sleeps — it’s about how they feel while they’re here. Families throughout Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Harford County trust us because our approach focuses on emotional wellbeing, structured care, and transparent communication.

Our goal is simple:
To make your dog feel safe… and to make you feel confident.

We offer different play programs and accommodations based on what your dog needs to feel their best. And at our Cockeysville location in Baltimore County, we offer both Petite Suites and Luxury Suites, so you can choose the space that fits your dog’s comfort level.

Whether you’re boarding for the first time or you have an experienced traveler, this guide will help you prepare for a smooth, calm, and successful stay.

Step 1: Choose the Right Environment for Your Dog

Dogs settle faster when their daily routine matches their personality.

At Best Friends Fur Ever, we offer different play programs and care styles to support dogs with different comfort levels, energy levels, and emotional needs.

Social Groups

Best for confident, playful dogs who love structured group interaction.

Play My Way

Ideal for dogs who prefer one-on-one attention, curated play sessions, or smaller social circles.

ACC (Assisted Canine Care)

Perfect for dogs who need:

  • A quieter environment

  • A slower pace

  • Limited stimulation

  • Extra reassurance

ACC+

Designed for dogs who:

  • Experience higher anxiety

  • Are seniors or mobility-limited

  • Are post-surgery

  • Require medication management

  • Need closer monitoring

Petite Suites & Luxury Suites (Cockeysville – Baltimore County)

Some dogs feel safest when they have a calm, personal space to decompress.

At our Cockeysville location, pet parents can choose between:

  • Petite Suites (cozy and secure)

  • Luxury Suites (larger private spaces for added comfort)

For nervous dogs especially, having their own suite can dramatically reduce stress.

If you’re located in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, or Harford County and aren’t sure which option is best, our team will guide you based on your dog’s temperament and history.

Step 2: Complete the Boarding Intake Form (Details Matter)

This form allows us to care for your dog as if they were our own.

You’ll tell us about:

  • Feeding schedule

  • Portion sizes

  • Picky-eater preferences

  • Allergies

  • Pre-existing conditions

  • Medications (if applicable)

  • A local emergency contact

Your emergency contact must be authorized to make decisions and pick up your dog if needed.

For anxious dogs (or pet parents), this form is incredibly important. The more we know, the more we can proactively support them.

   

Step 3: Schedule a Daycare Trial (Highly Recommended)

If your dog is new to us, we strongly recommend a daycare day before their first overnight stay.

This is especially helpful for families throughout Baltimore County and Harford County who want to reduce first-night stress.

A trial day:

  • Builds familiarity with our staff

  • Helps your dog learn the routine

  • Allows us to observe play style and comfort level

  • Makes the boarding transition smoother

For nervous dogs, this step can make a huge difference.

Step 4: Bring Their Regular Food

New environment + new food = potential tummy upset.

We recommend bringing your dog’s regular food, individually packaged per meal.

If needed, we offer:

  • Sensitive Skin & Stomach kibble

  • Bland Diet (Chicken & Rice)

Keeping food consistent is one of the easiest ways to prevent stress-related digestive issues.

Step 5: Medication Prep (If Needed)

If your dog requires medication:

  • A medication form must be completed

  • Medications must be clearly labeled

  • Administration fees apply

Dogs in ACC and ACC+ programs often do especially well because those programs include structured monitoring and calmer routines.

Step 6: Vaccines & Flea Prevention

We maintain a strict vaccine and flea prevention policy to protect all dogs in our care.

You’ll confirm all vaccines and flea/tick prevention are up to date on your intake form.

Step 7: Consider Enrichment Add-Ons

Sometimes anxiety shows up as restlessness.

Our enrichment program provides:

  • One-on-one cuddle or play sessions

  • Snuffle mats and lick mats

  • Treat upgrades

  • Grooming and spa services before pickup

  • Report cards with photos

For dogs coming from busy areas like Baltimore City, structured enrichment can help them transition more comfortably into a new environment.

Step 8: Comfort Bundles for Nervous Dogs

We offer wellness bundles to help ease stress during boarding.

Traveler’s Tummy Bundle

Best for stress-related GI upset.

Calm Canine Bundle

For general anxiety support.

Super Lux Relaxation Bundle

Includes calming support plus a canine massage — ideal for:

  • Seniors

  • High-anxiety dogs

  • First-time boarders

Step 9: Prep at Home Before Drop-Off

The week before boarding matters.

  • Maintain normal routines

  • Increase exercise slightly

  • Avoid new foods

  • Practice short separations

  • Stay calm at drop-off

Dogs mirror your energy. Calm goodbyes help them settle faster.

What Happens If My Dog Is Not Having the Best Day Ever?

This is the question every loving pet parent asks.

At Best Friends Fur Ever, the safety of your fur family member is always our priority.

If your dog is not having the best day ever, you can expect:

  • A detailed update in your Gingr Pet Parent Portal

  • Notes about appetite, behavior, and emotional state

  • A follow-up phone call if extra support is needed

  • Immediate communication in urgent situations

We believe communication and transparency are part of great care.

And if a medical concern ever arises, we are located near trusted emergency and urgent care veterinary hospitals in the Baltimore area with whom we have established relationships — allowing us to act quickly and responsibly.

Families across Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Harford County choose us because they know we communicate clearly and advocate for their dog.

You will never be left wondering.

What to Pack for Your Dog’s Boarding Stay

Packing thoughtfully can ease anxiety — for both you and your dog.

Here’s what we recommend:

Must-Haves:

  • Individually portioned meals

  • Clearly labeled medications (if applicable)

  • Completed intake and medication forms

  • Emergency contact information

Optional Comfort Items:

  • A small blanket or towel from home

  • A worn t-shirt with your scent

  • Approved enrichment add-ons

What to Leave at Home:

  • Large beds (unless pre-approved)

  • High-value toys

  • Loose food bags

  • Anything irreplaceable

If you’re unsure about an item, just ask. We’re happy to guide you.

Final Thoughts: Boarding Should Feel Like a Retreat

Boarding shouldn’t feel like a risk.

It should feel like structure, support, and safety.

When you prepare ahead:

  • Dogs settle faster

  • Anxiety decreases

  • Digestive issues are reduced

  • And stays become enjoyable

Whether you’re coming from Baltimore City, Baltimore County, or Harford County, we are here to support both you and your dog — every step of the way.