Straight answers for pet families.

First-timer guide

Your dog's first stay, start to finish

The whole first-timer process in order: tour, paperwork, packing, a calm drop-off, the day itself, and pickup.

Prep & packing

How to prepare your dog for boarding

A practical packing checklist plus what to leave home, vaccinations, and how to make drop-off calm.

Decision guide

Dog daycare vs. boarding: which does your dog need?

The honest difference, when each one wins, pricing side by side, and how they work together.

Behind the scenes

A day at Ruffin Inn, hour by hour

The actual daily routine: let-outs, verified feedings, playgroups, the noon nap, and lights-out. No mystery.

Pricing guide

How much does dog boarding cost in Minnesota? (2026)

Real ranges by facility type, the add-on fees that inflate a 'cheap' rate, and how to compare all-in prices.

Checklist

What to look for in a dog boarding facility

The 10 questions to ask anywhere — including here — and what a good answer sounds like.

Decision guide

Dog boarding vs. a pet sitter — honestly

When a facility wins, when a sitter genuinely wins, and a low-risk way to find out which fits your dog.