Handing overnight boarders to the morning team

At the end of the evening shift, the outgoing staff must transfer care of overnight boarders to the morning team. Begin by reviewing each dog’s strip for the day’s notes, feeding times, and any behavior observations. Write a brief handoff note on the staff board that lists: dog name, any pending medication, and the next feeding time. Place the note where the morning team can see it immediately, and ensure the check-in board may reflect the dog’s current status. This transfer reduces the chance that a dog’s needs are overlooked at the start of a new day.

Handoff note format

Status check on the board

Worked example

The evening staff wrote: "Rex – medication at 8 am – feed at 7 pm – calm in group." They placed the note on the staff board and updated the check-in board to show Rex as an overnight boarder. The morning team arrived, saw the note, gave Rex his 8 am dose, and logged the administration. The day proceeded without a missed dose.

What the reader can verify

After the handoff, check that the staff board note and the check-in board status match for each overnight boarder where both are used. Both should list the same dog and the same pending tasks.

Preventing forgotten duties

A consistent handoff routine means the morning team starts with a clear list, and the evening team finishes with a documented close.

Exception

If a boarder becomes ill overnight, the evening staff should document the symptoms on the strip, alert the on‑call veterinarian, and include a brief update on the handoff note so the morning team is aware of any special care needed.

Related: Dog Daycare Manager features.