Pawliday Inn
When you book a stay at Pawliday Inn, we encourage you to bring your dog's own food. It's one of the simplest things you can do to make boarding easier on your dog. A new place, new sounds and new dogs are already a lot of change. Keeping meals the same gives your dog one familiar thing to count on. Here's why bringing your dog's own food to boarding matters, and how to pack it so every meal goes smoothly.
Familiar food protects your dog's stomach
Many dogs have sensitive digestion. A sudden switch from one food to another can lead to loose stools, gas, vomiting or a dog who simply won't eat. Vets usually recommend changing foods gradually over several days for exactly that reason.
Boarding is not the time for a switch. Even a mild change, like a different brand or a new protein, combined with the excitement of a new place, can be enough to upset some dogs. Your dog's regular food keeps one big variable steady.
Stress and appetite
Some dogs eat eagerly from the first meal. Others are a little off their food for the first day or two while they settle in. That's common, especially for first-time boarders and dogs who worry when their people leave.
A food your dog already knows and likes makes it more likely they'll eat. If your dog is a picky eater or tends to skip meals when stressed, tell us when you drop off. If your dog stops eating for more than a short time at home or anywhere else, that's a question for your vet.
Special diets, allergies and medical foods
If your dog eats a prescription diet, has a food allergy or follows a feeding plan from your vet, their own food isn't just helpful, it's essential. Bring enough for the whole stay, and write down any rules, like no treats except the ones you've packed.
Medications that go with food, such as a pill hidden in a spoonful of something, should be packed and labeled too. Our packing list for dog boarding covers medications in more detail.
How meals work during a stay
Overnight guests at Pawliday Inn get breakfast and dinner every day. If your dog normally eats more often, or needs a little extra, an extra meal is available as an add-on. Just let us know when you book.
For a full picture of what a stay includes, see dog boarding in Houston.
How to pack your dog's food
Portion each meal
The easiest system is one bag or container per meal, labeled with your dog's name, the date and "breakfast" or "dinner." That way every meal is exactly what you'd serve at home.
If you'd rather bring one larger container, include a measuring scoop and clear written instructions, like "1 cup in the morning, 1 cup at night."
Pack a little extra
Flights get delayed and plans change. Add a day or two of extra food in case your stay runs longer.
Label everything
Put your dog's name on every bag, container and scoop. If you have more than one dog with different diets, label each dog's food separately and write down who eats what, even if they share a kennel at home.
Write down the details
A short feeding note helps staff feed your dog the way you do:
- How much at each meal
- Any toppers, water added or warm water
- Treats your dog can have, and how many
- Anything your dog must not have
- Whether your dog eats fast, eats slowly or tends to skip meals
Skip the fancy extras
A holiday trip isn't the time for a special new treat or chew. Stick with what your dog already knows. And if you're boarding around the holidays, our guide to holiday foods that are dangerous for dogs is worth a read before the family gathering, too.
Planning for a long stay
On a longer trip, food planning matters even more. Count out the meals, add a few days of extra, and check whether you'll run low on a prescription diet before you leave. Our guide to long-term dog boarding in Houston covers extended stays.
Other comforts from home
Food isn't the only thing that helps. We also encourage you to bring your dog's own toys and blankets. Familiar smells help many dogs relax and sleep better in a new place.
Prepaid night packages are available, and current rates are on our homepage.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to bring my dog's food?
We encourage it, because it helps protect your dog's stomach and keeps meals familiar. If you have questions, call us at (346) 522 4472 before your stay.
How should I pack my dog's food?
Pre-portioned bags or containers, one per meal and labeled with your dog's name, work best. Add a day or two of extra in case plans change.
My dog eats more than twice a day. Is that okay?
Overnight guests get breakfast and dinner, and an extra meal is available as an add-on. Tell us your dog's routine when you book.
What if my dog doesn't eat the first day?
Some dogs are off their food at first while they settle in. Tell us if your dog tends to do this. If your dog has a medical condition, ask your vet ahead of time how long they can safely skip meals.