Meet & Greet Checklist for Dog Boarding in Basildon (Questions to Ask)

Meet & greet checklist for dog boarding in Basildon. Questions to ask, what to look for, red flags, and how to prepare your dog for a smooth first stay.

A meet and greet is the best way to decide if a boarding service is right for your dog. It lets you see the environment, understand the routine, and (most importantly) observe how your dog responds. Use this checklist to make sure you cover the essentials. Before You Go: What to Bring vaccination record (photo/PDF is fine) your dog’s routine (wake-up, meals, walks, bedtime) medication details (if relevant) notes on triggers (resource guarding, fear of men/children, noise sensitivity) emergency contact details What to Observe During the Meet & Greet Environment secure entry/exit points (double gates are a plus) separate spaces available for breaks and calm time clean floors, bedding, and feeding areas safe layout (no exposed hazards, secure garden fencing) Dogs and Group Dynamics are dogs calm and relaxed, or overstimulated? how does the carer manage introductions? are dogs separated by size/temperament when needed? Carer Interaction do they read dog body language well? are they confident and calm? do they ask questions about your dog’s needs? Questions to Ask (Copy/Paste) How many dogs do you board at once? Where do dogs sleep at night? What does a typical day look like? How do you handle feeding (separate areas, timing, treats)? How do you introduce a new dog to the group? What happens if two dogs don’t get along? Do you offer rest breaks and quiet time? How do you handle medical issues or emergencies? Do you administer medication? How is it recorded? How often do you send updates (photos/videos)? Red Flags they won’t let you see where dogs stay they don’t ask about your dog’s history or temperament no clear plan for separation or conflict management poor security (open gates, unsecured doors) no emergency procedure or vet plan Best Next Step: A Short Trial If the meet and greet goes well, consider starting with a short stay or a daycare day before a longer trip. Familiarity makes boarding much easier for most dogs. A great meet and greet should leave you feeling informed and confident. The right carer will welcome your questions, explain their routine clearly, and put your dog’s wellbeing first. Want to Arrange a Meet & Greet? You can request boarding and we’ll arrange a meet and greet where appropriate. Start via the booking page and tell us a bit about your dog.