Safe & Reliable Boarding
We understand that you may be feeling stressed about leaving your pet — especially if they are ill, or while they are recovering from surgery or a procedure. At Des Moines Veterinary Hospital, we want to make sure that we can help to put your mind at ease when you have to leave your beloved cat, dog or exotic pet behind.
We offer medical boarding services including a large facility with comprehensive care for cats and dogs. These animals may have conditions or needs that standard boarding centers may not be equipped to accommodate, such as administration of medication.
Our boarding services are only available for current patients at Des Moines Veterinary Hospital.
Medical Boarding: A Typical Day
Boarding for Dogs
Dogs spend most of their time in private, climate-controlled kennels with soft, clean bedding.
We will administer medication according to your stated specifications to keep their routine as similar as possible to their time at home.
During their stay, each patient is continuously monitored for any changes in medical conditions, in addition to signs of stress, fear or anxiety. Our veterinarians will address any concerns.
Dogs also get short walks twice a day courtesy of our staff, to enjoy fresh air and an opportunity to go to the bathroom.
Boarding for Cats
We will follow any specifications or requirements you might have for your cat. Our goal is to provide a seamless transition from your pet's routine at home to their stay with us.
During your cat's time with us, we will administer medication and feed them according to your specifications, so that their routine closely parallels their time at home.
Our staff interact with the cats daily, offering pets, play, snuggles and enrichment activities. Litter boxes are checked, cleaned and disinfected throughout the day.
Boarding for Exotic Mammals
At Des Moines Veterinary Hospital, we are equipped to provide exceptional boarding services for small mammals.
We will provide for your pet's unique needs with care, compassion and expertise. We will closely monitor your pet, administer any medications they need and provide them with any social time they would like.
We know exotic pets can often be quite sensitive to change, so we will keep your beloved companion on as close to the same schedule as they have at home as possible.
FAQs About Pet Medical Boarding
As serious animal lovers, our entire team enjoys giving our boarders all the attention and care they deserve while they stay with us.
In these FAQs, you'll find answers to our most frequently asked questions about medical pet boarding at Des Moines Veterinary Hospital.
If you have further questions about our boarding services, please feel free to contact us!
- What accommodations and amenities do you have?
You'll find everything your pet needs for a fun, recuperative and safe stay at our facility in Des Moines, including these accommodations and amenities:
- Climate-controlled kennels
- Comfy, cozy beds for each guest
- Clean towels, blankets, and bowls
- Individual space for each pet
- Separate boarding area for cats
- Privacy/hideaway spaces
- Special diet accommodations
- 24/7 monitoring
- How much does pet boarding cost?
Boarding fees vary based on the duration of the stay, the size of the pet, and special medical requirements. That said, our pricing is affordable and competitive, and we welcome you to contact us for a quote.
- What should I pack for my pet?
Food: We provide food for pets staying with us. However, please feel free to bring enough of your pet's regular food to last the duration of the stay.
Medication: Please bring all medications in their original containers, clearly labeled with your pet's name, dosage and instructions included, for our staff to administer.
Please do NOT bring these items — we will provide sanitized: bedding, toys, blankets and food bowls.
- How is medication administered?
During your pet's time with us, a qualified vet technician will administer medication based on the schedule and dosage you specify at check-in.
- Can I get updates about my pet during their stay?
Yes, feel free to call us during your pet's stay for updates. However, rest assured that if there is a problem, we will contact you promptly via the emergency contact information you provide for information or updates regarding your pet's condition.
- How should I prepare for my pet's stay?
Each animal is different. To prepare for your pet's stay with us, we'll take the following steps to ensure that we can meet their unique needs.
Step 1: Contact us to get started
Call us to book, and to discuss important details about our services and your pet's requirements. A member of our team will be happy to arrange booking with you.
Please note that, due to the nature of our accommodations, we do not accept unaltered dogs. Pets must be up to date with all vaccinations and parasite prevention medications. They must be free of fleas, ticks and parasites to stay at our facility. They require a negative fecal test within the past 12 months.
If you have any questions regarding these policies, please contact the office directly.
Step 2: Set your pet up for success
On the day you drop your pet off with us, there are a few steps you can take to help reduce any stress your pet may feel.
Spend some extra time with your pet beforehand, and make sure they get some hearty exercise so that they are feeling calm. When you arrive at our facility, stay calm, cheerful and confident during the separation.
- What do you feed animals that don't have their own food?
For pets that are not on a special diet, we provide quality pet food that we carry in our clinic.