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804-795-9415

2610 Shadewood Lane

Charles City, VA 23030

A Stay in the Country Pet Lodge

Preparing Food for Your Dog’s Stay

Jan 22, 2026 | New Clients, Safety, Care & Our Standards

2 dogs playing with treats in Kong toys

Keeping your dog on their normal feeding routine is one of the best ways to help them feel comfortable during their stay. The following guidelines help us ensure meals are served accurately, safely, and efficiently for every guest.

If you have questions about food or packing, please contact us before your dog’s stay—we’re always happy to help.

Food We Can Provide

You are welcome to use our food if preferred. We can provide:

  • Dry kibble
  • Canned/wet food
  • Low-sodium chicken broth
  • Treats

If you plan to bring your own food, please follow the guidelines below.

Important Feeding Notes

  • Please do not change your dog’s diet within two weeks of their stay. This includes adding new extras or toppers. Sudden diet changes may cause digestive upset.
  • All food items must be clearly labeled with your dog’s name.
  • Please ensure the feeding instructions in your pet’s profile match the food you are bringing.

Dry Kibble

To ensure accurate feeding:

  • Food must be pre-measured into individual meal bags or placed in gallon-sized Ziplock bags with a clearly labeled measuring device.
  • Each bag must include your dog’s name.
  • Only reusable bags will be returned.
  • We are no longer able to accept food brought in other types of containers.

Wet / Canned Food

  • Please bring unopened cans.
  • We are happy to provide lids.
  • Any unused portion and unopened cans will be returned.

Vegetables (If Part of Your Dog’s Diet)

Canned Vegetables:

  • Please bring unopened cans.
  • We are happy to provide lids.
  • Any unused portion will be returned.

Single-Serve Veggie Cups:

If your dog eats vegetables, single-serve veggie cups are the easiest and preferred option.

Dry Meal Toppers & Treats

  • Please portion toppers and treats into your dog’s individual meal baggies.
  • This helps ensure each meal is prepared correctly and consistently.

Cooked Food (Home-Cooked or Purchased)

  • Portion food into individual meal-sized bags and label each bag with your dog’s name.
  • Bags used for cooked food will not be returned.

Raw Diet

  • Portion food (including chubs) into individual meal bags and label clearly.
  • Place all meal bags inside a gallon-sized Ziplock bag.
  • Food may be brought fresh, frozen, or a combination.
  • Bags used for raw food will not be returned.

For longer stays, please separate meal bags into groups so they can be frozen as needed.

Why These Guidelines Matter

These guidelines allow our team to:

  • Maintain accurate feeding routines
  • Prevent cross-contamination
  • Reduce the risk of digestive upset
  • Ensure your dog receives the correct meals every time

Thank you for helping us provide the safest and most consistent care possible.

Need Help?

If you’re unsure how to pack your dog’s food or have special considerations, please contact us before arrival. We’re always happy to review instructions with you.

Check out our Boarding Packages

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