Before boarding a dog, I would need to gather key information to ensure the dog's stay is comfortable and stress-free. Here are some essential things to know: 1. **Basic Information:** - **Breed, age, and size**: Helps determine exercise needs and space requirements. - **Sex and spayed/neutered status**: Useful for handling and behavior management, especially around other animals. 2. **Health and Medical Needs:** - **Vaccination status**: Ensure the dog is up to date on vaccines, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. I may request confirmation of vaccinations from your vet for long-term stays. - **Medical conditions**: Any allergies, past injuries, or chronic illnesses that require special care. - **Medications**: Details on any medications, dosage, and schedule. - **Veterinarian contact**: In case of emergency, it’s important to know the dog’s vet. 3. **Dietary Needs:** - **Feeding schedule**: When and how often the dog eats, portion sizes, and any treats allowed. - **Food preferences or restrictions**: To avoid digestive issues, it's essential to follow their normal diet. - **Allergies**: Any food sensitivities or allergies. 4. **Behavior and Temperament:** - **Personality**: Whether the dog is friendly, anxious, shy, or aggressive around strangers or other animals. - **Separation anxiety**: If the dog experiences stress when left alone, this affects how you manage your time. - **Play style and energy level**: Helps in planning walks, playtime, and how much activity they need. - **Socialization**: How well the dog gets along with other animals or humans. - **Barking habits**: Helps prepare for any potential noise issues in an apartment setting. 5. **Routine and Comfort:** - **Daily routine**: Feeding, walking, sleeping, and playtime habits to keep them on a familiar schedule. - **Sleep preferences**: Where the dog typically sleeps (crate, bed, blanket), to provide comfort and routine. - **Favorite toys and comfort items**: Bringing familiar items can help reduce stress. 6. **Training and Commands:** - **House-trained status**: Important to know if the dog is reliably housebroken. - **Basic commands**: Knowing commands the dog responds to, like "sit," "stay," or "come," helps with control and communication. - **Leash behavior**: Whether the dog pulls, barks at other dogs, or is calm on walks. 7. **Emergency Contacts:** - **Owner's contact details**: For any urgent questions or in case of emergencies. - **Backup contact**: Someone else who knows the dog in case the owner is unavailable. This information helps ensure that the dog is well cared for and that I can manage any specific needs during its stay!

Boarding your dog in my apartment involves creating a cozy, safe environment tailored to the dog's needs. The day starts with a morning walk, giving the dog a chance to relieve itself and get some fresh air. Afterward, breakfast is served, keeping in mind any specific dietary preferences or restrictions. You’d ensure fresh water is available throughout the day. During the day, the dog may have some free time to roam and explore the apartment or hangout on the balcony, while I provide toys or puzzles for mental stimulation. Regular playtime helps keep the dog entertained and active, whether it’s indoors with toys or outdoors for a walk or run. Depending on the dog’s routine, they may nap during the afternoon. I create a designated rest area with a bed or blankets where the dog feels comfortable. Later in the day, there’s usually another walk, followed by dinner. Evening relaxation might include some more play or snuggle time before settling in for the night. Throughout the day, I keep a close eye on the dog to ensure they’re comfortable, happy, and adjusting well to the temporary home.