Let’s get you and your pup ready for a great stay with us!

Before boarding your dog it’s important to confirm that they meet our vaccine and health requirements. Please review the dog boarding details below and our vaccinations and health information.

• What food and treats information do I need to know?
• Where does my dog sleep and do I need to bring a bed?
• Do I need to provide toys and bones for my dog?
• What are Dog Ranch’s medication instructions?

Food and Feeding

For all dogs boarding with us, please provide sufficient food for your dog’s entire stay. When calculating food, add some extra. Your dog will get more exercise and stimulation than usual in the rural setting of the Dog Ranch, so may need added nourishment. Also, should unforeseen circumstances delay your return, your dog can stay on at the Dog Ranch without interrupting the nutrition routine.

We supply feeding bowls and scoops. Please do NOT include any bowls, scoops or measuring cups with your dog’s belongings.

If providing dry kibble, please keep it in the original bag or transfer it to a plastic airtight container with a tight lid, or ziplock bag. We beg your cooperation: NO GARBAGE BAGS PLEASE!

If your dog does run out of food, we will provide a healthy grain or vet-recommended kibble. We will slowly mix it with the remaining kibble to make the switch easy on the stomach. We will try to purchase your dog’s brand of food at our local pet store if we know your dog has a touchy stomach.

If your dog eats raw food, please provide a watertight Tupperware or similar container large enough to accommodate two (thawed) meals. Enclose the frozen food in a double bag or larger container to prevent leakage during transportation or in the Dog Ranch fridge.

Due to the amount of exercise and stimulation they get at the Dog Ranch we prefer to feed all dogs twice a day—breakfast and dinner. Also, we don’t want any dogs feeling left out while other dogs are being fed! Puppies and special needs dogs may receive a midday or night meal or snack as well. We try and maintain your home feeding routine as much as possible.

Board & Train Dogs: Treats must be provided by the owner to motivate your pup and enhance their training sessions. Please pack a variety of high value food rewards to be used for their training sessions.

Bedding and Sleeping Arrangements

The Dog Ranch provides comfortable and cozy bedding for your dog. Bedding is always cleaned and disinfected between each use.

We provide a healthy and safe environment for each dog. The Ranch’s heated and air conditioned boarding facilities have individual or shared rooms, equipped with comfortable bedding and a constant supply of fresh water throughout the day and night. Your dog’s space is cleaned every day.

Life at the Ranch is stimulating—so we ensure there’s a cozy place to get plenty of rest to maintain a healthy balance. More than one dog from the same family may share a room and we may pair your dog up if needed.

Let us know if you wish your dog to be crated, as you do at home—we can provide a crate.

Team members live in the Ranch house and other accommodations, so someone is on the property at all times.

Toys and Bones

At the Dog Ranch, toys are not necessary because dogs usually just nap after so much vigorous outdoor exercise. Raw bones are not allowed; the smell can agitate other dogs. Kongs with peanut butter or lean cuts can be added at additional cost of $10 each. Dogs staying with us for enriched boarding, Kongs and lick mats are included in the cost of their stay. 

Administering Medications

Medication can be given with food in a pill or liquid format. We are only able to give subcutaneous injections. Please provide clear instructions in the original packaging from your Vet or Pharmacy, and pre-prepare the pills for each use (break pills in half if necessary). We keep a daily record of medication administered.

We also need to know what condition the medication is treating, so please call or email to brief us on your dogs’ medical issue, well before arrival.

The Dog Ranch keeps a daily record of medication administered. Extra medical care may be given by our staff such as bandaging, cleaning wounds, ointment application etc.

Special Surcharges

We are dedicated to ensuring every dog receives the care it needs for a happy, healthy, and safe stay. We understand some dogs have special needs and require considerably more care and attention. If your dog requires specialized handling for proper care, or has extra medical considerations, a daily or one-time surcharge may be added at the discretion of Bowen Island Dog Ranch once we discuss the issues with you. Read about the special requirements surcharge.

Please call or email us to discuss your dog’s medical or medication needs if complex, otherwise you can mention what is needed on your application form.