Pet grooming and boarding checklist
A practical checklist for grooming or boarding that covers health records, routine and emergency consent.
Before booking, share the pet's species, age, sex, size, temperament, vaccination status, allergy or medical needs, feeding routine and any behaviour that affects handling. Ask what vaccinations, parasite control, records or assessment are required, and whether the provider can safely separate animals when needed.
Confirm the daily routine: feeding schedule, exercise, grooming, sleeping arrangements, supervision, cleaning and how the provider contacts you. Give medication only with written dose, timing and storage instructions. Bring familiar food or comfort items only if the provider agrees, and label every item clearly.
Ask what happens if your pet becomes ill, injured, distressed or cannot be contacted. Record the preferred veterinary clinic, an emergency contact, spending approval limit if appropriate, and whether the provider will seek urgent care first. Do not conceal a contagious condition or behavioural risk.
At collection, check the pet's general condition, belongings and any care notes. Ask about eating, toilet habits, medication, behaviour and incidents during the stay. Keep the booking record and vaccination or treatment information for the next visit.
Leave a written emergency contact, veterinary preference and clear consent boundary for treatment. Label food and medication, and tell the provider about escape risk, aggression, allergies or contagious conditions. On collection, ask for a short care handover and keep it with the booking record for future visits.