How To Find A Good Dog Boarding Kennel
When you have to go on a trip and you have a dog, you need to find a good dog boarding kennel. Pet owners often have to find a dog boarding kennel when they have to travel out of town. While you may be able to leave a cat on its own and ask a neighbor or family member to feed it, you cannot do this with a dog.
There are certain aspects of the dog boarding kennel that you will want to discover before you make arrangements to board your dog. When shopping for a dog boarding kennel, be sure to ask the following questions:
How much out time does the dog get?
You do not want to go on vacation and keep your dog cooped up in a cage all day long. You will want to know how much time your dog will get that he will be allowed to roam around. If you live near a big city, you may be lucky enough to find a dog boarding kennel that does not use cages and allows the dogs to roam freely. Make sure that the dog boarding kennel gives you dog plenty of time to stretch his legs.
Is the dog boarding kennel certified?
You will want to make sure that the dog boarding kennel is certified or licensed in the state in which you live. Although taking your dog to an unlicensed dog boarding kennel may be less costly, there is no state inspections of the kennel and no laws protecting your dog. Make sure that the dog boarding kennel where you choose to board your dog is a licensed kennel.
Does the kennel ask for proof of vaccinations?
Your dog boarding kennel should want proof that your dog is current on all of his vaccinations. If not, you are risking the health of your dog as he will be boarded with other dogs that may not have their vaccinations. A licensed dog boarding kennel will require that your dog is up to date on all of his shots, not just the rabies vaccine.
Is there a vet close to the kennel?
The best dog boarding kennel has a certified vet either on the premises or close by. This way, if something goes wrong with your dog while you are away, he can visit the vet. Choose a dog boarding kennel that has a vet close to the premises.
What type of staff do they employ?
Naturally, the people who are working at the dog boarding kennel should be people who are not only animal lovers, but those who have experience with animals. If the dog boarding kennel hires people to mind the kennel with no experience, or does not do background checks to make sure that no animal abusers are hired, this is not the dog boarding kennel for you.
Remember that you are entrusting the life of your dog to the dog boarding kennel so be sure to ask questions and ask to see the kennel and meet the staff before you leave your dog at any dog boarding kennel.