Holiday Dog Boarding in Arlington: When to Book and What to Pack
By Canine Cardio · November 13, 2026
The holidays are the busiest time of year for dog boarding in Arlington. Families travel, flights get booked, and boarding spots fill up weeks ahead.
If you're traveling in December, here's everything you need to know to make your dog's stay easy.
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Book early: Christmas boarding by December 1
Spots for the weeks around Christmas and New Year's go quickly. We recommend booking Christmas boarding by December 1 so your dog has a spot.
A few tips when booking:
Book your full dates, including the morning you leave and the day you get back.
Add any extras up front, like a bath before pickup or one of our exercise programs.
If you need a ride, ask about pickup and drop-off when you book. It saves you a trip on a hectic travel day.
Make sure your dog is ready
Before any stay, every dog needs:
Up-to-date vaccines on file with us
A completed evaluation, if your dog is new to Canine Cardio
Current contact info for you and an emergency contact while you're traveling
If your dog has never stayed overnight anywhere, a daycare day or two before the trip helps them get comfortable with our team and our space.
What to pack
Keep it simple. We provide bedding, bowls and plenty of activity. Please bring:
Your dog's regular food, pre-portioned by meal if you can. Sudden food changes can upset stomachs.
Any medications, in original containers, with clear written instructions.
A small item that smells like home, like a T-shirt you've worn. Skip anything you'd be sad to lose.
Your dog's collar or harness and leash.
Please label everything with your dog's name.
What your dog's day looks like
Boarding at Canine Cardio isn't a kennel where dogs wait for you to come back. Boarders get structured play, exercise and attention from our team throughout the day. Many families add an exercise program so their dog gets extra time on the treadmill, in the pool or on our other equipment.
Our team is certified in pet CPR and first aid, so trained staff are on hand if anything comes up.
Coming home
Expect your dog to be happy and tired. A bit of extra thirst or a long nap the first day back is normal after a fun, active stay.
For stays of a few nights, a bath before pickup is a nice way to have your dog come home fresh for the holidays.
Ready to book?
Holiday spots go fast, so lock yours in early. Book boarding here or call us at (571) 348-9364. We'll take great care of your dog while you're away.