Holiday Dog Boarding in Vermont: What You Need to Know

By Tails On Trails Pet Resort · Wilmington, Vermont

Holiday season in Vermont is nothing short of magical — sparkling snow, festive celebrations, cozy evenings, and bustling ski mountains. With travelers arriving from all over New England and beyond, this time of year is also when dog boarding fills up the fastest.

Whether you’re visiting Mount Snow, Stratton, Bromley, Magic Mountain, or the surrounding Wilmington–Dover region, preparing early ensures your dog enjoys a safe, relaxing, and joyful holiday stay of their own.

Here’s everything you need to know before booking holiday dog boarding in Southern Vermont.

1. Holiday Dates Fill Up Extremely Fast

Thanksgiving week, Christmas–New Year’s, MLK Weekend, Presidents’ Day Weekend, and Winter Break are the busiest boarding weeks of the year. Because so many families travel to Vermont during these dates, dog boarding spots often fill weeks — sometimes months — in advance.

Tip:

✔️ Reserve your holiday stay as early as possible

✔️ Expect limited last-minute availability across the region

At Tails On Trails Pet Resort, we recommend booking holiday lodging the moment your travel dates are confirmed to guarantee a space for your dog.

2. Vaccinations Must Be Current Before Your Dog Arrives For Boarding

Holiday boarding means higher traffic, more playmates, and more exposure opportunities — which makes vaccination requirements essential for safety.

Your dog must be up-to-date on:

• Rabies

• Distemper/Parvo (DHPP)

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

• Flea/Tick prevention applied at least 48 hours prior

• Canine Influenza (CIV) is strongly recommended during winter travel season

These requirements help protect all dogs staying in our resort and ensure a safe, healthy environment.

3. Pack Smart for Holiday Travel

To make your dog’s holiday stay seamless and stress-free, pack:

• Enough food for the entire stay

• A little extra in case of weather delays

• Medications in original labeled bottles

• Feeding instructions

• A familiar blanket or comfort item

• Any approved treats

• Updated contact information

Holiday travel often includes unpredictable weather and possible delays — packing thoughtfully keeps your dog comfortable no matter what.

4. Consider Your Dog's Comfort During Ski Season

Customers visiting Southern Vermont for skiing often notice:

• Increased tourist traffic

• Higher energy from new environments

• Cold temperatures affecting their dog

• Longer indoor hours

Boarding during ski season gives your dog:

✔️ Warm, climate-controlled lodging

✔️ Consistent feeding and potty routines

✔️ Social interaction and stimulation

✔️ Trained, attentive caregivers

✔️ Rest when they need it

While you enjoy the slopes, your dog enjoys their own cozy vacation.

5. Plan Drop-Off and Pick-Up Around Weather & Travel

Winter storms, icy roads, early sunsets, and travel delays can affect schedules during the holidays.

To make everything smoother:

• Allow extra time on holiday weekends

• Consider arriving early if snow is expected

• Keep us updated if your travel plans shift

• Bring your dog calm and ready for drop-off

Your dog picks up on your energy — a calm, organized drop-off helps them settle in quickly and happily.

6. What Makes Holiday Boarding in Vermont Unique?

Holiday boarding in Vermont is different from regular boarding because:

• Tourism is at peak volume

• Ski weekends draw thousands of visitors

• Weather can impact both you and your dog

• Holiday energy means dogs need structured routine

• Spots are limited and in high demand

This is why Tails On Trails Pet Resort was designed to bring comfort, structure, warmth, and peace into every dog’s holiday stay.

We focus on:

• Clean, climate-controlled lodging

• Predictable routines

• Personalized care

• Safe, supervised interactions

• Luxury-level comfort

• A peaceful environment

• Caring staff who treat each dog like family

Your dog deserves to relax just as much as you do during the holidays.

7. Prepare Early — Your Dog Will Thank You

Holiday boarding is more enjoyable when:

• vaccinations are ready

• packing is simple

• travel details are organized

• reservations are made early

With the busy nature of Vermont tourism and ski season, early planning ensures your dog feels supported, relaxed, and happy during their stay.

Final Thoughts

The holidays should be joyful, peaceful, and memorable for every member of the family — including the four-legged ones. With proper preparation and a trusted boarding resort, your dog can enjoy a warm, safe, and loving holiday getaway of their own.

At Tails On Trails Pet Resort, we provide luxury-level lodging with a focus on comfort, safety, and personalized care, especially during Vermont’s busiest and most festive time of year.

Enjoy your holiday travels.We’ll take care of the rest.