Choosing a Boarding Kennel for Your Dog

Summer time means vacation time for many families. And while we would all love to take our dogs with us (because, after all, they are members of our family , too), we know that doing so isn’t always practical.

If you decide you need to leave your dog behind while you travel this vacation season, a boarding kennel can give your four-legged baby top-quality care, plus give you peace of mind knowing that s/he is well taken care of while you’re away.

The first thing to consider when choosing a boarding kennel is to plan ahead. Good kennels tend to fill up fast, so you’ll want to decide on a kennel well in advance to be sure the kennel will be available to keep your dog on the dates you’ll be gone.

The best source for finding a good kennel is to ask for recommendations from people you know. Check with family, friends, neighbors, even your vet. Once you’ve got a few recommendations, however, it’s important that you do your own background check.

Although it may seem incredibly time-consuming, it’s extremely important that personally visit each kennel you are considering so that you can properly evaluate its conditions. You’ll want to be sure the kennel looks and smells clean, and that there is adequate ventilation, as well as light. You’ll want to make sure the temperature in the kennel isn’t too warm, or to cold. Verify that all pets that are kept at the kennel are required to be current on their vaccinations, including the vaccine for kennel cough.

Check that each dog has his own indoor/outdoor run. If there is no outdoor run, ask the kennel staff about any set schedule for providing exercise for your dog. You’ll also want to check that adequate bedding is provided for your dog. And if the floor is concrete, be sure the bedding is up off the concrete floor.

If your state requires boarding kennel inspections, make sure you see a license or certificate displayed which shows that the kennel meets the state mandated requirements.

Check with the kennel staff to find out if the kennel is a member of the American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA). This is a trade association that was founded by kennel owners and operators to promote professional standards of pet care. To become a member of this association, kennel owners are required to follow a strict code of ethics.

Ask the kennel owner about his/her procedure in the event of an emergency, and find out if any other services are available for your dog while you’re away, such as bathing and/or grooming. And be sure to discuss with the staff any medical or behavioral problems about your dog that may be important.

It’s also extremely important that you understand exactly how the kennel’s rates are calculated!

You’ll also want to check with your local Better Business Bureau to be sure no complaints have been filed against the kennel you are considering.

Once you’ve decided on a kennel, you’ll want to take some time to prepare your dog. Be sure s/he knows basic commands and is well socialized. If you’re planning a log vacation (a week or more), it’s a good idea to consider boarding your dog for a 2-3 day “practice” run. This is a good way to find any potential problems (either with your dog or with the kennel) before leaving your dog for an extended period of time.

When the day arrives, you’ll want to remember to pack any medication your dog may be taking. If your dog is on a special diet, remember to include enough food for his entire stay.
Type up a list of emergency contact phone numbers to give to the kennel staff, including your vet’s phone number, your phone number, and the name and phone number of a friend or relative who lives in the area who is willing to be a “back-up” in case you can’t be reached.

When you arrive at the kennel, it’s always a good idea to go over a quick reminder of any medical or behavioral issues with the staff. Although you’ve previously advised them of any of these issues, and it is written down in your dog’s chart, a quick verbal reminder is a good idea.
Now, just hand your dog over to the staff, say a brief good-bye, and promptly leave. Just as with a child, a long, drawn-out, emotional departure will only cause your dog to become confused and upset.

You’ve done your research and found the best possible care for your beloved dog. Now trust that he’s in good hands and will be well taken care of. Go have a good time!

~Lisa Pallardy
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