Pawliday Inn
Older dogs have earned a little extra consideration. They may move slower, sleep more, take medication, or have opinions about exactly when dinner happens. Boarding a senior dog can go smoothly when you plan ahead and give the staff the details that matter. This guide walks through what to do before, during and after an older dog's stay.
When is a dog a senior?
There's no single age. Large and giant breeds tend to age faster than small breeds, so a Great Dane may be a senior years before a Chihuahua. Your vet is the best person to tell you where your dog is in life and what that means for their care.
What matters more than the number is what you see at home: stiffness when getting up, cloudier eyes, hearing loss, more naps, or changes in appetite and thirst.
Before you book
Schedule a vet check
If your senior dog hasn't seen the vet recently, book a visit before the trip. Ask:
- Is my dog healthy enough to board?
- Are there any medication changes coming up?
- What signs should prompt a call to you while I'm away?
- Can you give me copies of vaccine records?
Every dog at Pawliday Inn needs current Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccinations, plus regular flea, tick and intestinal parasite prevention, regardless of age. Some vets adjust vaccine schedules for older or medically fragile dogs, so ask your vet early and call us at (346) 522 4472 if you have questions. Our article on vaccines required for boarding and daycare explains each one.
Consider a short trial stay
If your older dog has never boarded, or hasn't in years, a short stay first can show you how they handle it. Weekend boarding has a two-night minimum, which makes a good trial.
Comfort matters more with age
Bring their own bedding
We encourage owners to bring their dog's own food, toys and blankets, and for seniors that's especially worth doing. A familiar bed or thick blanket gives stiff joints some padding and a smell that feels like home.
Pick the right kennel size
Our kennels come in small, medium and large sizes. Tell us about your dog's size and mobility when you book, so they have room to stretch out and get up comfortably.
Keep the food the same
Many senior dogs eat special diets for kidneys, joints, weight or digestion. Sudden diet changes can upset any dog's stomach. Bring enough of their regular food for the whole stay, plus a little extra in case your return is delayed. Overnight guests get breakfast and dinner, and you can add extra meals if your dog normally eats more often.
Write a clear care sheet
Older dogs often have more details in their routine. Put everything on one page:
| What to include | Example |
|---|---|
| Feeding | Amount, times, and whether to warm or soak food |
| Medications | Name, dose, time, and with or without food |
| Mobility | Trouble with stairs, slipping on smooth floors, needs help up |
| Senses | Hearing or vision loss, startles easily when touched from behind |
| Bathroom habits | Needs to go out more often, occasional accidents |
| Vet contact | Your vet's name and phone number |
| Your contact | Phone number, plus a backup person |
Pack medications in their original labeled containers when you can.
What their day looks like
Senior dogs often don't want the same day a young dog wants. At Pawliday Inn, boarding is staffed 24/7, with three scheduled potty breaks a day, separate from daycare, plus free yard play. Your dog can enjoy yard time at their own pace.
If you'd like a little extra one-on-one time, boarding add-ons include walks, basic baths and extra meals. A slow, short walk can be a nice part of the day for an older dog.
For senior dogs who still enjoy other dogs, our daycare play yards are separated by energy level, so a mellow older dog isn't stuck with dogs who want to wrestle all day. Read is dog daycare right for my dog if you're not sure whether daycare suits your senior.
Houston weather and older dogs
Senior dogs can have a harder time handling Houston's heat and humidity, especially dogs with heart, breathing or weight issues. If you're traveling in summer, tell us about any heat sensitivity. Our guide to Houston heat and dog safety covers warning signs every owner should know.
Coming home
After a stay, a senior dog may be extra tired or a little stiff. Give them a quiet day, their usual meals and plenty of water. If anything seems off, such as limping that doesn't improve, not eating, vomiting or unusual lethargy, call your vet.
For more on our overnight care, see dog boarding in Houston, or check current rates on our homepage.
Frequently asked questions
Do you board older dogs?
Yes. Senior dogs are welcome as long as they meet the same vaccine and prevention requirements as every guest. Tell us about medical conditions, mobility and routine when you book.
Can you give my senior dog medication?
Tell us about your dog's medications when you book, and bring them with written instructions. Call us at (346) 522 4472 to discuss your dog's needs.
Should I bring my dog's orthopedic bed?
If it travels well, yes. We encourage owners to bring their dog's own blankets and comfort items.
Is boarding stressful for an old dog?
It can be for some dogs. A vet check, a short trial stay, familiar bedding and a detailed care sheet all help. If your vet has concerns about your dog's health, follow their advice.