​​​(320) 290-3366   

jen@downunderkennels.com

DOG BOARDING FAQ 

What vaccines do dogs need to board?
We require current Rabies, DHPP (Distemper), and Bordetella vaccines to keep everyone healthy. If your dog needs a Bordetella booster, it must be given at least 5 days before their stay. Please bring your dog's official vet records (no handwritten ones). This protects all the dogs staying with us!

What is Bordetella (Kennel Cough)?
Bordetella is a vaccine that helps protect against kennel cough, a contagious respiratory illness that can spread anywhere dogs gather, including boarding facilities, dog parks, grooming salons, and training classes.

Like the human flu vaccine, the Bordetella vaccine helps reduce the risk and severity of illness but does not protect against every strain that can cause coughing. Even vaccinated dogs can occasionally develop kennel cough.

In most cases, kennel cough causes a mild cough that improves with time, although some dogs may require veterinary evaluation or treatment. For the safety of all dogs in our care, we require a current Bordetella vaccination. If your dog needs a booster, it must be given at least 5 days before their stay.

Do dogs need to be on leashes?
Yes please! All dogs must arrive and leave on leash. It keeps everyone safe during drop-off and pick-up. Once they're checked in, they can run and play on our secure country property.

What should I bring for my dog?
Bring your dog's regular food (helps avoid tummy upset from diet changes), any medications (with clear instructions), a washable blanket or bed, and a couple favorite toys.

Food tip: Put food in Tupperware containers or labeled baggies with your dog's name. Makes feeding super easy!

Skip anything super special since toys can get misplaced during all the excitement.

What if my dog needs medication?
Don't worry—we're happy to help! We'll give pills, eye drops, ear treatments, or any meds your dog needs. Just send medications in their original containers clearly labeled with your dog's name and dosage instructions. 

What extra services do you offer?
We have fun add-ons to spoil your pup:
Nature Walks $15 
Nail Trims $10 
Ear Cleaning $10 
Frozen Stuffed Kongs $5 

What are your drop-off and pick-up hours?
Our drop-off and pick-up hours are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and all arrivals and departures are by appointment only.

We're flexible within those hours and happy to work around your travel schedule whenever possible. Just give us a call ahead of time to arrange a convenient time. As we continue to grow, we may move to more structured hours in the future, so please check back for any updates.

What happens at drop-off?
When you arrive, we'll review your dog's information, collect any food, medications, or personal items you've brought, and answer any last-minute questions. Once everything is checked in, we'll get your dog settled into their suite and help make the transition as stress-free as possible.

Please make sure your dog arrives on a leash and that all required vaccination records have been submitted before your stay.

What happens at pick-up?
When you arrive, we'll have your dog's belongings packed up and ready to go, including any food, medications, toys, blankets, or other items you brought with them.

Payment is due at pick-up. We accept cash, Venmo, and major credit cards through our Square Reader. Please note that all boarding services are subject to Minnesota sales tax.

We'll be happy to answer any questions about your dog's stay and let you know how they did while they were with us. Before heading home, please take a quick look to make sure you have all of your dog's belongings.

What if I'm running late to pick up?
Just let us know! Travel delays happen—we totally get it. We're flexible when we can be, but a heads-up helps us plan our day.

What's a typical day like for my dog?
At Down Under Kennels, your dog's day is all about comfort and fun:
Morning potty and breakfast
Mid-morning playtime and exercise outside
Afternoon cuddles, attention, and naps
Evening dinner plus a potty walk
Bedtime fresh kennel and wind-down
Late night final potty break
We customize care to their individual needs!

Why do families love Down Under Kennels? 
Kennel owner is a veterinary technician – Experienced, knowledgeable care you can trust
Small Groups – Never overcrowded, allowing for more individual attention
Quiet Country Setting – A peaceful environment away from noise and stress
Consistent, Caring Team – Familiar faces your dog can trust every stay
Daily Hands-On Attention – Personalized care for each dog
Low-Stress Environment – Designed so your dog feels comfortable and at ease
Home-Like Experience – A place your dog can truly relax
Clean, Comfortable Kennels – Safe, sanitary, and well-maintained
Climate-Controlled Spaces – Comfortable in every season
24-Hour Camera Monitoring – Added peace of mind

Any tips for when I bring my dog home? 
​Dogs often come home super excited or completely worn out after their stay—that's perfectly normal!
Offer small amounts of food/water at first to avoid upset tummy
Some may have mild stress diarrhea after their stay—it usually clears up on its own in 1-2 days with rest and normal routine
Rest easy—your pup will be back to themselves soon!


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