Boarding Options for Dogs - Choosing a Kennel | Dogs

By: Matthew Hick

If you’re going away and need to leave your dog somewhere, then you have several options. You can opt for home boarding, where the dog is cared for in a home environment, pet sitting, where someone will stay in your home to care for your pet or the traditional kennel boarding. Of course you want a clean, roomy, well-ventilated environment for your pet, but what makes for a good boarding choice?

If you decide to hire a pet sitter, then references from previous clients are the best determination if this is the pet sitter for you. Ask if they are insured and who will have access to your home. Find out how many hours they will be at the home a day and if they have emergency transportation. See how they interact with your dog. Determine if they are able to administer medicines. A pet sitter is ideal for the animal that may get stressed out at a kennel with all the activity and noise. For the home environment boarding, set up a visit. Your dog should receive the same care here as at home. It should be a comfortable welcoming environment with ample individual attention to your pet’s needs.

Boarding kennels are good options, especially if you are going to be gone for a week or two. They are also a good choice for the pet that has a need to be around people and other animals. The kennel should have a sheltered area and a dog run area. They typically range the gamut from your basic kennel to luxury like kennels.

Whichever you choose, there are some things to look for and questions to ask. Most importantly, visit the kennel. Ask for a tour of the facility. Look around and observe hygiene, temperature and ventilation. You should check to see if it is clean looking and clean smelling. Check the food and water bowls to see if they are clean. Also, look to see the type of food that is served. Is it high quality or low? Observe the number of dogs in the kennel in p

roportion to the number of employees. Can they provide what they say with this ratio? See how the staff interacts with the dogs. Ask questions about how they care for certain breeds, if they provide medical care, how they deal with aggression and behavioral problems. Find out if they provide twenty-four hour coverage. You also want to make sure your dog has access to an outside exercise area. And make sure they have adequate insurance coverage.

When looking for boarding options, consult your veterinarian, friends and family for recommendations. Figure out which option is best for your dog’s personality. Talk to the pet sitter or kennel employees. Pay attention to details, ask questions and expect them to ask questions also. By doing so, you will find a proper place to keep your dog, while you are away. He will be safe and well taken care of, and you can relax, and enjoy your time away, knowing this.