The Simple Way to Help Protect Your Dog’s Stomach Before a Kennel Stay

Dog owners preparing for summer holidays are being urged to think about their pet’s food routine before a kennel stay, as search data shows rising demand for boarding options ahead of the busy June and July travel period.

New search data analyzed by fresh dog food brand, Years, found searches for “dog kennels” reached 72,000 in the past month, up 8% month-on-month, as owners begin arranging care for their dogs while they go away.

But according to Alyssa Ralph, clinical animal behaviorist and canine nutritionist at Years, owners should avoid making last-minute feeding changes just before boarding, as sudden changes to diet, environment and routine can leave some dogs with an upset stomach.

Alyssa says dogs may experience digestive upset after a kennel stay for several reasons, including excitement, stress, disrupted sleep, new surroundings, changes to toileting habits, different feeding times and, in some cases, a sudden change in food.

She explains that the issue is not usually the kennel or the food itself, but the combination of too many changes happening at once.

Alyssa Ralph, clinical animal behaviorist and canine nutritionist at Years, says:

“Searches for dog kennels rising is a clear sign that owners are starting to plan their summer holidays and think about where their dogs will stay. But food planning often gets left until the last minute.

When a dog comes home from boarding with an upset stomach, it is very easy to assume the food was the problem. But in most cases, it is not about blaming the kennel or the food itself. It is about how much change the dog has experienced at once.

A kennel stay can be exciting, stimulating and unfamiliar. Your dog may be around new people, new dogs, new smells and a different routine. If their food also changes suddenly, their digestive system has even more to process.

The safest approach is to plan ahead, gradually incorporate the kennel’s usual routine into your dog’s day ahead of dropping them off, and ensure they have plenty of their usual food when you pack for them. Having shorter trial stays at the same kennel in advance can also be very helpful to support your dog in settling in.”

Search Demand for Dog Kennels is Rising Ahead of Summer

Source: Google search data, analyzed by Years

Should Owners Take Their Dog’s Own Food to Kennels?

Alyssa says owners should ask the kennel or boarder about their feeding policy well before the stay.

Most kennels are happy for dogs to arrive with their usual food, especially if meals are clearly labelled and pre-portioned. Others may have their own feeding system due to storage, hygiene, operational or dietary management reasons.

Alyssa says:

"If your dog has a sensitive stomach, allergies, a veterinary diet, or is simply very settled on their current food, ask in advance whether you can provide their usual meals.

Do not leave this conversation until drop-off day. Good kennels have clear systems for feeding, storage and labelling, so it is much easier for everyone if you agree the plan early.

Try to avoid changing your dog’s food just because of an upcoming stay at a kennels, but if your chosen kennel insists on using their own food, ask what they use and start introducing it gradually before they go."

The 7-Day Feeding Taper Before Boarding

If a dog will be eating a different food while boarding, Alyssa recommends introducing it gradually over 7-10 days.

The aim is not to overcomplicate feeding. It is simply to avoid a sudden switch at the same time as a major routine change.

Some dogs have very resilient stomachs, while others react to even small changes. A gradual transition gives you time to spot any issues before your dog is away from home."

Alyssa Ralph, Clinical Animal Behaviorist and Canine Nutritionist, Years 

Two Weeks Before the Kennel Stay

Alyssa recommends owners start preparing around two weeks before travel, especially if their dog has a sensitive stomach or has had issues after boarding before.

What to Pack If Taking your Dog’s Own Food

If the kennel allows owners to bring food from home, Alyssa recommends making it as simple as possible for staff.

Alyssa’s kennel food checklist:

• Pre-portioned meals for each day
• A few extra meals in case of travel delays
• Clear written feeding instructions
• Any medication or supplements agreed in advance and clearly labelled
• A note on allergies, intolerances or foods to avoid
• Emergency contact details
• Vet details
• Any familiar treats or chews, if permitted by the kennel (dogs should always be supervised with chews in case of choking)

Alyssa says:

"Pre-portioning meals is one of the most useful things an owner can do. It removes guesswork and helps keep the dog’s routine consistent.

I would also pack a few extra portions in case your return is delayed. Summer travel can be unpredictable, and it is better for the kennel to have more than not enough. If you do run to schedule, your feeding routine is also a little easier when you settle back in at home!"

What Owners Should Avoid Before Boarding

Alyssa warns that many owners accidentally make digestion harder by changing too much in the days before a stay.

Alyssa says:

"A lot of owners feel guilty before leaving their dog, so they give extra treats, chews or something special before they go. It comes from a kind place, but it can backfire.

The week before boarding is not the time to introduce new foods or rich extras. Keep the routine familiar and predictable."

Why Stress can Affect a Dog’s Digestion

Alyssa says owners should remember that digestion is not only affected by food. She explains:

"A dog’s gut and nervous system are closely connected. A dog that is excited, anxious, overstimulated or sleeping differently may have softer stools even if the food itself is perfectly suitable.

This is why it is important not to jump straight to blaming the kennel. Sometimes the food change is only one part of a bigger picture. The kinder approach is to reduce as many changes as possible before the stay."

The Common Food Mistakes Owners Make Before Kenneling

Alyssa says the most common issues tend to happen before the dog even arrives at the kennel.

She explains:

"One of the biggest mistakes is changing food too late. Owners might realize the kennel uses a different food and then switch their dog over the day before, which does not give the gut enough time to adjust.

Another common mistake is over-treating before drop-off because the owner feels guilty. Dogs do not understand a big emotional goodbye meal in the way we do. What they do understand is routine, consistency and feeling secure.

The best thing you can do before boarding is keep their food routine steady, communicate clearly with the kennel and avoid introducing anything new unless there is a reason to."

When to Speak to a Vet

Some mild digestive changes can happen after a disruption to routine, but Alyssa says owners should always seek veterinary advice if symptoms are severe, persistent or unusual.

Owners should call a vet if their dog has:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 24 to 48 hours
• Blood in their stool
• Repeated vomiting
• Refusal to eat
• Lethargy or weakness
• Signs of pain or dehydration
• Symptoms in a very young, elderly or vulnerable dog

Alyssa says:

"If your dog seems bright, eating and improving, a mild upset should settle quickly. But if symptoms continue, worsen, or your dog seems unwell, speak to your vet.

Owners know their dogs best. If something feels wrong, it is always better to get advice."

The Key Message for Summer Dog Owners

Alyssa adds:

"A good kennel is not the enemy of your dog’s stomach. The issue is usually too much change happening too quickly.

Ask what your dog will be fed, agree whether you can bring their usual food, avoid last-minute treats and use a gradual transition if their diet is going to change.

It is a simple step, but it can make boarding much easier on your dog’s digestion."