What To Ask When Boarding Your Pet

If you are planning to leave your dog at a boarding kennel while you're out of town, there are important things you need to keep in mind while making your arrangements. First and foremost, you want to make sure the kennel you choose is reputable. Ask for recommendations from friends, neighbors, or co-workers. Read reviews online. Ask your vet. Understandably, it's hard for some pet owners to trust others with the care of their beloved pet. By asking for recommendations, you can hear from real people about the quality of care afforded at the kennel, hopefully giving you the peace of mind you need to feel okay about boarding your dog there.

You should contact multiple kennels before making your decision. When you call, there are certain questions you should ask before making any type of reservation, such as:

• Where will my dog stay? You want to make sure the place your dog will stay is clean, organized, and free of any foul-smelling odors. You also want to make sure your dog will be staying in a place that is big enough to be comfortable. It's good to visit the kennel before making your reservation so you can see for yourself where your dog will be kept and if it's suitable.
• How often will my dog get exercise? Some boarding facilities only walk dogs twice a day for a few minutes at a time. It's important to figure out not only how many walks your dog will get, but also how long the walks will last for and if the dog gets any free time to run in a dog run or grassy area. Don't be afraid to ask for more walking time if that is something your dog needs to be healthy and happy.
• What will my dog eat? Some dogs don't react well to a change in diet. If you think your dog may be stressed by the boarding experience, ask the kennel if you can bring your own food. It's also important to let the kennel know if your dog is on a special diet or if there are restrictions as to what your dog can and cannot eat.
• Will my dog interact with other dogs? Most kennels let the dogs out to play together. If you are concerned about how your dog will interact with other dogs, ask the kennel if it would be possible to keep your dog away from the other dogs. You can also ask how many attendants will be present to supervise the dogs during playtime.
• What if my dog becomes sick or injured? It's important to ask the kennel what its protocol is when a dog becomes sick or injured. Also, find out where the kennel attendants will take your dog if it gets sick or injured, or if a veterinarian is on site.

Once you find a kennel you like, feel free to go ahead and make a reservation. The cost of boarding your dog will depend on the facility itself, so it's important to address any cost issues before you finalize your reservation.