Boarding your dog at a dog boarding and daycare facility has many benefits: you can go on vacation or a business trip without worrying about your dog, since you know he's being well cared for and playing with other dogs the entire time. Many dog boarding facilities even have cameras that you can access remotely, so you can check in on your pup from the road. If it's your dog's first boarding experience, however, you may both be feeling a little nervous about it. Here are three ways to prepare your dog for boarding to ensure a stress-free time:

Sign Up for Practice Sessions

If you still have some time before your trip, it's always a good idea to help your dog get comfortable with dog boarding by practicing with shorter visits. Even just bringing your dog in to dog boarding for a few hours or a work day can help him become familiar and comfortable with dog boarding and being around so many new dogs.

Be sure to do what you can to make his dog boarding experience as fun and positive as possible. Use an enthusiastic, excited tone of voice when telling him where you're going, and reward him with a treat or two when you drop off and pick up so your dog will associate doggy daycare with positive things.

Make Sure Your Pup Is Socialized

If your dog has never been around other dogs or has problems with aggression or anxiety around dogs, dog boarding at a large facility may not be the best option. Ideally, your dog will be properly socialized with obedience training and puppy play dates under his belt before you drop him off. Most dog boarding facilities require an initial "interview" to make sure your dog isn't aggressive with other dogs.

If you are worried that your dog will not get along with other dogs, hiring an in-home pet sitter may be a better option at this time. Once you have worked with your dog through training and exposure to other dogs, you can add doggy daycare to your lives.

Pack a Few Home Comforts With Your Dog

Bringing a few items from home can provide your dog with a sense of comfort and familiarity. A tee shirt or blanket that smells like you is a great idea since dogs have such powerful senses of smell. If your dog boarding location allows it, bring a few of your dog's favorite toys as well.

By taking the time to follow these tips, your dog's first experience at a boarding facility, like Crossroads Pet Resort, will be low-stress and fun.