Finding The Most Suitable Boarding Kennel For
Your Dog
Owners all love their canine friends, but
unfortunately it is not always possible they can always go with
them. When it is time to travel, many dog owners will turn to a
boarding kennel. Here are some tips to help you find the best dog
kennel.
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Before you go, make sure that your dog is current on all of his
vaccinations. A reputable boarding kennel will require proof from
your vet that the dog is vaccinated, healthy, and on flea and
heartworm preventative. Check with you vet to see if any
additional vaccines are recommended since your dog will be in the
contact of other animals. You will want to do all of this ahead of
time some kennels will not allow dogs in if they have been to the
vet within the last 14 days. Remember that all of this is for your
dog’s protection, as well as the protection of other pets in the
dog kennel. A kennel that does not require proof of vaccination
should send up a red flag. Not every dog kennel is created equal.
You will also want to consider what type of kennel you would
prefer to use. Some are just a standard kennel with a pen or cage
for each dog. For those who do not mind spending the extra buck,
there is the bed and breakfast style kennel where either the dogs
stay in the home of the kennel owner or their rooms are furnished
to look more like a real home. Remember that your dog is going to
be missing you more than his bed at home, so he might not need the
extra pampering unless that is more of what he is used to.
Before signing your dog up for his vacation, you will want to
visit the location first. Ask to see the areas that the dogs are
kept. Are the cages clean? Do the animals have food and water? Ask
how often dogs are taken outside. Are they taken for walks or just
let out into a run? Will they have access to other dogs? Does
kennel staff take time to give personal attention to each animal?
Be wary of kennels that appear dirty or have a lingering odor.
Check the outdoor areas to see that waste is being picked up. A
kennel that is dirty is more prone to disease, and might also be
giving a clue to the type of care your pet will be getting while
staying there.
You will also want to find out what supplies you will need to
bring with your pet. Does the kennel supply food or should you
bring your own? What about bedding and toys? Do you need to make
special accommodations for medications? Some kennels prefer that
you bring your own supplies for your pet so that he feels more at
home, while others prefer that the favorite chew toy stays at home
so that it does not get lost.
Also ask about emergency procedures for your pet. If your dog gets
sick, will they contact you or take him straight to the vet? Is
there a vet on staff or one that they use regularly?
If interested, talk with staff about other services that the
kennel may offer. Some will provide additional services like doggy
day care or grooming services that your dog can enjoy while
staying.
When you take your pet to the dog kennel, it is preferable to make
as less of a fuss as possible. You do not want your dog picking up
stress from you. Make sure that you have everything you need pet
supplies, vet papers, medications, and food. Say all good-byes to
children at the house, and if possible, leave them at home while
you drop the dog off. At the kennel, make sure that the staff has
all the information that they need from you, including emergency
numbers where you can be reached. It is also helpful to review the
pick-up policy for your pet so that you are able to get him as
planned.
With a little planning, both you and your best friend will have a
wonderful vacation
