A boarding kennel can provide your pet with quality care while giving you peace of mind.

Your pet depends on your good care even when you're not home. Your friends might not have the knowledge to look after your pet like you do. Pet care is usually best left to a professional boarding kennel.

Boarding kennels normally specialize in the care and overnight boarding of your pet.

 

How do I find a good kennel?
Ask someone related to the kennel field. A friend, or veterinarian, can be used for a recommendation. You can also check online in your particular town.

Make sure you find out if the state requires boarding kennel inspections. If it does, make sure the place you are considering shows a license showing that the kennel meets state standards.

Check with your Better Business Bureau to see whether any complaints have been lodged against a boarding kennel you are considering.

After selecting a kennels, make sure they can accommodate your pet for your special dates and can handle your pet's needs.


Visiting the boarding kennel, what should I look for?
During your visit to the boarding kennel, ask to see where your pet may be taken.

• Does the facility look and smell clean?

• Is a comfortable temperature maintained?

• Does the staff seem knowledgeable and caring?

• Are pets required to be current on their vaccinations?

• Does each dog have his own adequately sized run or a scheduled exercise period?

• Is bedding provided to allow dogs to rest off the floor?

• Is there enough space for cats to move around comfortably?

• Is there enough space between the litter box and food bowls?

• How often are pets fed?

• Can the owner bring a pet's special food?

• Are veterinary services available?

• Are your pets going to be exposed or interact with other pets and animals

• Are there any hidden fees associated with your stay at the boarding kennel?

• Is the boarding kennel USDA approved, as some states require this.

• Do they require flea and tick preventatives for the animals?

• Do they require a negative fecal float for internal parasites?


How do I get my pet ready for a boarding kennel?
Make sure your pet knows basic commands and is socialized. If your pet has an aggression problem, they may not be a good candidate for kennel boarding. Make sure to let the kennel know about any behavioral issues prior to your scheduled drop off time.

Before you head for the kennel, make sure that you have your pet's medication and any special food, and your veterinarian's phone number.