One of the most popular dog training options is called in-kennel training or a board and train. We have offered this option for years, going back as far back as 2006 when we were in Denver. Over the years our program has evolved, as have many other’s offered by trainers across the country but one thing is certain, there are certain health and safety c concerns that must be thought about.
Did you know that your dog must be completely vaccinated and that you must be able to provide written proof of the types of vaccines and the dates of their most recent administration in order to travel with them, take part in a board and train program, sign up for doggie daycare, sign up for a group training program, or have your K9 Buddy groomed?
At Dog Works Training Co. we offer a unique board and train program we describe on our website as Susitna Camp. This camp can be as short as two weeks and as long as 12 weeks depending on what training requirements the dog needs. Being in Alaska provides for some untraditional ways for people to get their dogs to Camp. Many drive over 50 miles, some fly, and some even take ferries to arrive at Camp. If traveling by plane it will require that the dog is seen by a veterinarian prior to arriving at Camp and receive a Health Certificate with proof of vaccinations. When the dogs are picked up and returned to their homes again via plane, they will require another Health Certificate to be issued by another veterinarian.
Preparation for Board and Train
To prepare your dog for a board and train program, focus on basic obedience commands like sit, stay, come, down, and heel, ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date, provide them with a familiar comfort item from home, gradually expose them to different environments and people, and practice crate training to ease separation anxiety, while also communicating clearly with the trainer about your dog’s specific needs and behaviors.
Every board and train program across the country requires proof of vaccinations.
Key steps to prepare your dog for a board and train:
- Basic Obedience Training:
- Practice essential commands like sit, stay, come, down, and heel consistently.
- Reinforce positive behaviors with treats and praise.
- Gradually increase distractions during training sessions.
- Socialization:
- Expose your dog to various people, animals, and environments in a controlled manner.
- Consider puppy classes or socialization groups if your dog is young.
- Crate Training:
- Accustom your dog to spending time in a crate, gradually increasing the duration.
- Use the crate as a positive space for sleeping and relaxation.
- Veterinary Checkup:
- Ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date and your dog is healthy enough for training.
- Request a copy of all current vaccinations and a signed Rabies Certificate
- Familiar Items:
- Pack a favorite toy, from home to help your dog feel comfortable at the training facility.
- Communication with Trainer:
- Discuss your dog’s specific needs, behavior concerns, and desired training goals with the trainer.
- Ask about the training methods used and the daily routine at the facility.
- Gradual Introduction:
- If possible, visit the training facility beforehand to let your dog get familiar with the environment.
- Positive Reinforcement:
- Understand that positive reinforcement techniques are generally preferred for effective training.
Important Considerations:
- Choose a reputable trainer:
Research and select a qualified trainer with a positive training philosophy.
- Be consistent:
Continue practicing commands at home to reinforce what your dog learns at the training facility.
- Manage separation anxiety:
If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, discuss strategies with the trainer to ease the transition.
Travel Requirements to and from a Board and Train
Be aware of the travel requirements for the airline, ferry, public transportation, Uber and even hotels for your K9 Buddy
Airline Requirements
Airlines typically require a health certificate that’s no older than 10 days. However, the USDA considers a health certificate valid for 30 days. Some countries require a health certificate that’s even less than 10 days old.
- Who issues
A veterinarian who is certified to issue USDA certificates must obtain the health certificate. Not all veterinarians can issue USDA certificates, so you may need a referral.
- What it shows
The health certificate, also called a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), shows that your pet is:
- Free from parasites
- Has received their necessary vaccines
- In good health to fly
Other things to consider when traveling with a dog include:
- Federal regulations require pets to be at least 8 weeks old and weaned at least 5 days before flying.
- You should talk to your veterinarian about feeding schedules.
- You should have your dog’s rabies vaccination certificate and any other necessary travel certificates handy.
- Depending on the destination and travel requirements, the veterinarian may conduct specific tests to screen for contagious diseases.
A dog trainer requires proof of vaccination because it’s crucial to protect both your dog and other dogs in the training class from potentially serious and contagious diseases like distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough (Bordetella), and rabies; by ensuring all dogs are up-to-date on their vaccinations, the training environment remains safe for everyone involved.
Key points about why dog trainers require proof of vaccination:
- Herd immunity:
Vaccinating most dogs in a group helps protect those who might not be able to receive vaccines due to medical reasons.
- Preventative measure:
Vaccination is the best way to prevent the spread of serious canine diseases.
- Legal requirements:
Some areas may have regulations requiring proof of rabies vaccination for dogs attending training classes.
- Facility safety:
Training facilities want to maintain a clean and healthy environment for all dogs and handlers.
According to the American Kennel Club, canine facilities, such as dog daycare centers, boarding kennels, shows, dog parks, and training classes often require dogs to have the vaccine. This is because Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common bacterial agent responsible for kennel cough in dogs.
When planning to travel with your dog, you can prepare by:
- Getting your dog checked out
Visit the vet a week before your trip to ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and has received flea, heartworm, and tick repellant. You can also get a health certificate from your vet that’s dated within 10 days of your trip.
- Researching your destination
Check the requirements for pets in your destination country and the United States. For international travel, you may need to plan months in advance.
- Preparing your dog’s identification
Make sure your dog has a current tag and/or microchip, and a collar with your name, phone number, and your dog’s name. You can also bring a current photo of your dog.
- Packing for your dog
Pack enough food for the trip, including prescription food or specialty diets. You can also bring a collapsible bowl. If your dog takes medication, pack enough for the trip, plus some extra.
- Preparing for your dog’s comfort
Bring your dog’s bed or blankets from home so they have a familiar resting spot. You can also pack a portable music speaker to play classical music and reduce stress.
- Planning for breaks
If you’re driving, dogs shouldn’t be in the car for more than four hours without a break.
- Preparing for emergencies
Pack a first-aid kit with supplies like gauze, bandages, tape, tweezers, antiseptic, antibiotic ointment, and a thermometer. You can also include a list of veterinarians and emergency veterinary clinics along your route.
For those participating in board and trains through Dog Works Training Co. – we have discovered a health certificate program located near the Ted Stevens Airport in Anchorage, Alaska called Anchorage Pet Travel Certificates (https://www.anchoragepettravelcertificates.com/)
This service is wonderful as it lets you book an appointment 24 hours in advance at minimum and is convenient for our clients to schedule on their way back to the airport prior to their flights. We have used this service and found it to be comparable in price but especially convenient on saving time for the client.
The client is given a date and time for their dog to participate in a training session on pick up and then can conveniently schedule a time to have the dog be seen by at a veterinary office that is set up to only deal with health certification requirements only. Saving time!
Did you know that Alaska Dog Works trains service, therapy, and K9 buddies? We offer a FREE Discovery Call. Schedule yours today.
So, what do you think? Did you learn anything new about your K9 buddy?
Before we end the show, let’s press pause for a second…maybe ask yourself, why did this resonate with me? What aspect of my relationship with my K9 buddy could I apply this to? And what am I going to do differently this week to make my dog’s training a little easier? So, take time to mull it over, talk it out with a family member or trusted friend, put some ideas down in your training journal, and then check back next week for our next episode.
And, as always, I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this episode. So, reach out over on Instagram at AKDogWorks, and let’s spark a conversation. Until then, keep going! You are doing great! It is time to create the relationship with your dog that you always dreamed of.
Thanks for listening to Dog Works Radio. Find the show notes for this episode and all others at Alaska dog works (dot)com. Know someone in your life who needs help with their dog’s training? Be a hero and share our podcast with them, and we will see you next time.
Why trust us
At Dog Works Radio, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by a team with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts.
For this piece on board and train programs for your dog, Michele Forto tapped her experience as a longtime dog trainer, podcaster, and dog owner. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors, and our editorial policies on our website, Alaska Dog Works.com
We offer a FREE Discovery Call.
Click on the graphic to learn more
