Selecting a Boarding Kennel
Always inspect the facility yourself prior to selection. Ask friends and family, but don't rely on word of mouth alone. Meet the people who will be caring for your pet and ask about their experience.
If you feel uneasy in anyway, go to another location. Always follow your instinct.
On your visit, ask to see all the places your pet may be taken. Pay particular attention to the following :
- Cleanliness. How clean is the facility? Do the animals look well cared for and happy? Do you notice any bad smells? If there are signs that the facility is untidy (within reason), move on to another location.
- Check the accommodations your animal will be staying in. Ask about the facility's climate control. Is there heating and air conditioning? Check for good lighting, space and ventilation. Is there adequate shelter from the elements for your animal?
- What kind of individual attention is offered for your pet? How often will it be fed? Will it be pet, played with and exercised?
- Find out what emergency procedures the facility follows. Do they have a satisfactory disaster plan? If your animal gets hurt, what procedures do they follow for that? Is there some person on the property 24 hours a day?
- Prepare your pet in advance. Take them to the facility a few times before their stay to meet the people and see the facility. This helps them get adjusted to these new surroundings. Do it gradually, if possible.
- Leave a familiar item with your pet. A favorite blanket or a piece of your clothing is usually a good choice. A special toy is nice, as well.
- If your pet has special needs, make sure you leave it with the kennel. Tell them personally, and also give it in writing. Leave as much medication and special food as necessary for the duration of your absence.
- Vaccinations need to be current. Please contact the individual kennel for their requirements. If the kennel doesn't require vaccinations, select a different location.
- Leave your contact information with the kennel. This includes all the numbers of your destinations. Also, leave names and phones numbers of local friends and relatives in case of an emergency. Leave your veterinarian information, as well.
- Be sure your pet is wearing identification so that in the unlikely event that your pet gets lost, it can make a safe return to you.
