Can’t Bring your Dog on a Trip? Tips on Choosing a Caring Boarding Kennel
Pet owners all love their furry friends, but unfortunately they cannot always go with them. When it is time to travel, many people will turn to a boarding kennel. Here are some tips to help you find the best one.
Make Sure Your Dog is Current on Vaccinations
Before you go, make sure that your dog is current on all of his vaccinations. Reputable clinics 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 kennel. A kennel that does not require proof of vaccination should send up a red flag.
Consider How Active Your Dog Is
Now it is time to choose a kennel. First, think about what your dog is used to. Is he highly energetic and used to long walks, or is he content to sleep on the couch all day? Does he enjoy the company of other dogs? What sort of meal schedule does he need? Is he on any certain medications? Is he dependent on human contact to be happy? You will want to consider all of this when choosing a kennel.
How Much Are You Willing to Spend?
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.
Visit the Kennel Before Committing
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.
Ask about Emergency Procedures
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?
Find Out Which Supplies You Will Need to Bring
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.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Any Other Questions
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 dog to the 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!
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