How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Happy During Summer Boarding in Walnut Creek

Summer is one of the most exciting times of year — vacations, road trips, family reunions. But for dog owners, it also comes with a big question: who's going to take care of my dog while I'm gone?

If you're planning summer travel from Walnut Creek, here's everything you need to know about keeping your dog safe, comfortable, and happy during a summer boarding stay.

Start With a Trial Visit Before Your Trip

If your dog has never boarded before, summer is not the time to find out how they handle it. We always recommend a trial day visit before any first boarding reservation — it gives your dog a chance to meet our team, explore their suite, and get comfortable in a low-stakes environment before the real trip begins.

A dog that arrives already familiar with our facility is a calmer, happier guest from day one.

Heat and Hydration — What We Do to Keep Your Dog Cool

Walnut Creek summers can get hot. At North Main Pet Lodge our facility is fully climate-controlled year-round — your dog's suite stays cool and comfortable regardless of what's happening outside. Every guest has constant access to fresh water, and our team monitors all guests closely during warmer months.

And here's something our guests love — we have a dog pool area where guests can splash around and cool off during the summer months. Whether your dog is a water lover or just wants to dip their paws in, it's one of the highlights of a summer stay at North Main.

Off-leash play groups and walks are scheduled during the cooler parts of the day — early morning and late afternoon — so your dog gets the activity they need without overheating.

Choose the Right Activity Level for Your Dog

Summer boarding isn't one-size-fits-all. A young high-energy Labrador has very different needs than a senior Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. That's why we offer a range of activities your dog can mix and match throughout their stay:

• Group Play — 30 to 45 minutes of supervised off-leash play with size and temperament matched companions
• Private Walk — a one-on-one 1.5 mile walk with a staff member
• Individual Play — 15 minutes of dedicated one-on-one time with a staff member
• Pool Time — a refreshing splash in our dog pool area during summer months
• Senior Walk — a leisurely 15-minute stroll for older guests, with multiple outdoor breaks throughout the day

Just let us know what your dog enjoys and we'll handle the scheduling.

Book Early — Summer Fills Up Fast

This is the most important piece of advice we can give: don't wait. Summer is our busiest season by far. July 4th weekend, Memorial Day, and the weeks surrounding school breaks book up weeks in advance. Once we're full, we're full.

We recommend booking at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead for any summer travel. A non-refundable pre-payment is required to hold your reservation during peak periods.

What to Bring for a Summer Stay

To make your dog's summer stay as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing:

• Their regular food in a labeled container — sudden food changes can cause digestive upset
• One comfort item from home such as a favorite toy or blanket
• Current vaccination records if you haven't already sent them
• Any medications clearly labeled with dosage instructions

Please leave the extra toys and beds at home — we provide everything else your guest needs.

Vaccination Requirements — Please Plan Ahead

All dogs boarding or attending daycare at North Main Pet Lodge must be current on Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella, and Canine Influenza. Bordetella and Canine Influenza must be completed at least 5 days before arrival — so if your dog is due for vaccines, make sure to schedule that vet appointment well before your trip.

Please send vaccination records at least one week before your reservation.

Peace of Mind While You're Away

We know handing off your dog — especially for the first time — requires a lot of trust. We've been earning that trust from Walnut Creek families since 1992. Our caretakers are onsite every single day, our facility is fire sprinkled and climate-controlled, and we have established relationships with local veterinary emergency services.

You go enjoy your summer. We've got your dog.

Ready to book your dog's summer stay? Call (925) 256-0646 or email info@petlodge.com — and book early before we fill up!