When your dog has health problems, it is even harder for you to go away and leave them behind. Not all kennels are equipped to care for dogs with special medical needs. Plus, you're bound to be worried about your furry friend! With the tips below, however, you can successfully board a dog with health problems, from arthritis to kidney disease.

1. Look for a boarding facility associated with a vet's office.

Not all vet's offices offer boarding, but many do. The spots tend to fill up quickly, so you'll need to contact the kennel well in advance of your trip to book your dog's stay. Although the vets themselves may not be directly involved in caring for the animals in the kennel regularly, they do tend to step in and help care for dogs with health problems as needed. Plus, you have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that if your dog's condition does worsen while they are at the boarder, the vet is only a few paces away. Dog boarding facilities in vet's offices are generally more willing to accept dogs with health problems for this reason.

2. Have your own vet write up detailed care instructions.

Unless you are boarding your dog at the kennel associated with your own vet's office, this step is important. Call your regular vet, and tell them you are going away. Then, work with them to write up care instructions for your dog. Vets are used to giving their clients care instructions, so they know how to write them clearly. They'll also know which instructions are essential to give, and which can be safely foregone for the short period the dog is in the kennel.

3. Visit and talk to the kennel staff in person.

A few days before you're scheduled to leave your dog at the boarding facility, make plans to stop by. (Call and schedule this visit in advance so the staff has time to dedicate fully to you.) Bring your dog and the care instructions from the vet, and review them with the kennel staff. Answer any questions the staff may have. If there are specific things you need to do for the dog, such as give it a medication, demonstrate this for the kennel staff so they can visually watch you. (This may mean you have to schedule this visit when your dog is due for a dose of their meds.)

Boarding a dog with special health and medical needs requires a bit more planning, but with the right boarding facility and some planning, it can be done. Contact services like Marquette Animal Hospital to learn more.