Leaving your canine companion in a dog boarding kennel for the first time can be nerve wracking for any dog owner. However, knowing what to look for in a boarding facility and understanding proper dog care can ensure that your dog has a great first boarding experience. This article will cover the 10 most important things to know and take into consideration when choosing a boarding facility for your dog.
What Are the Vaccination Requirements for Boarding?
One of the most important things to know before boarding your pup is that vaccination requirements must be up to date. Many common dog illnesses and diseases can spread quickly in kennel settings if dogs are not properly vaccinated. Most boarding facilities require that your dog’s Rabies, Bordetella, Distemper and Parvovirus vaccinations are all current. Checking with your veterinarian to ensure your dog is up to date on his shots helps keep your pooch and the other dogs at the facility safe.
Does The Boarding Facility Look and Smell Clean?
A dog boarding facility should still look and smell clean, even after a busy day of daycare and overnight boarding. When finding the right boarding kennel for your dog, visit the kennel and make sure it is kept organized and clean. Illnesses and diseases can spread quickly in unsanitary environments. A clean and tidy kennel helps prevent the spread of viruses. Please make an appointment with the facility to see it in action and give you a good idea of their daily operations. This can help put your mind at ease before boarding your pup.
Is There Monitoring and Supervision of The Dogs?
One of the main things to look for in a boarding facility is proper monitoring and supervision of the dogs. There should always be an attentive staff member present to care for your dog. Some key questions that you may want to ask are: Does a staff member supervise the dogs at all times? Even when dogs are napping? Are dogs monitored even when they are in their kennels overnight? Knowing that your dog will have continuous care and supervision can provide peace of mind when leaving your canine companion.
What Safety and Emergency Procedures Are in Place?
It’s a good idea to understand the kennel’s safety and emergency procedures before boarding. Do they have protocols for natural disasters or medical emergencies? Is there always a staff member on site overnight in case of an emergency? Are doors and gates secure to keep dogs safely contained? Ensuring the facility has proper procedures to keep dogs at the facility safe can help you rest easy. It may also be a good idea to look for another boarding option if safety procedures seem inadequate.
Are There Options for Individual and Group Play?
One great thing about boarding and daycare is that dogs get to play and socialize with other pups! However, every dog is different when it comes to their socialization preferences. Many facilities offer options for both separate boarding accommodations and play groups. This allows dogs that prefer resting quietly to board individually, while more rambunctious pups can enjoy group playtime. Checking if the kennel offers different boarding options can ensure your pooch and the other dogs are most comfortable.
Does The Staff Get to Know Each Dog Individually?
It’s important that the kennel staff takes the time to get to know each dog and their unique care needs. A great facility will have staff that knows every pup by name and understands their likes, dislikes, and daily routine. The staff should be knowledgeable about your dog’s temperament, favorite activities, and health needs. Facilities that take a customized approach to caring for each dog individually helps ensure your pooch will be happy and comfortable during their stay.
Is Your Dog’s Food and Medications Accommodated?
Be sure to discuss your dog’s dietary needs and any medications ahead of time with the kennel staff. Many boarding facilities require you bring your dog’s own food to avoid tummy upsets from diet changes. It’s also important that staff properly administers any medications your pet needs. Confirming that the boarding facility can accommodate your dog’s nutritional needs and medications is key to their health during their stay.
Does The Staff Have Pet First Aid/CPR Training?
While injuries and illnesses are uncommon at most kennels, it’s still important to ensure the staff is properly trained in pet first aid and CPR. These skills allows staff to respond quickly and knowledgeably in the unlikely event of a medical emergency. Many facilities require staff to undergo certified training courses to keep their skills up-to-date. Don’t be afraid to ask about the staff’s credentials and expertise when it comes to pet first aid.
Is There a Meet and Greet Prior To Boarding?
Reputable facilities encourage new clients to bring their dog in for a meet and greet prior to their first stay. This gives your dog a chance to meet the staff and explore the facility in advance. Meeting the staff helps reduce your dog’s anxiety about being left with strangers. It also allows the kennel staff to get to know your dog’s temperament ahead of time. Scheduling a meet and greet session ensures a smoother drop off and great first boarding experience for your pup.
Do You Feel Comfortable and Confident with The Staff?
Lastly, it’s important to choose a boarding facility where you feel your dog is in good hands. The staff should demonstrate extensive knowledge about canine behavior, health, and body language. They should be passionate about the health and happiness of every dog in their care. Ensure staff encourages questions and is readily available to discuss your pet’s condition or boarding needs. Choosing a facility with competent, caring staff helps give pet parents peace of mind.
Boarding your dog for the first time inevitably brings some anxiety, but understanding what to look for in a facility can give you confidence. Keeping your dog’s health, safety and comfort the top priority when choosing a boarding kennel helps ensure they have an enjoyable stay while you’re away. If things don’t settle after the first few days, don’t be afraid to look for another boarding option that is a better fit. With the right boarding facility, you can rest assured knowing your furry friend is getting excellent care.
To summarize, here are some key things to remember when boarding your dog for the first time:
- Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date prior to boarding
- Tour the kennel to ensure it is clean, well-supervised and secure
- Look for options that allow both individual and group doggy playtime
- Choose a facility that gets to know each dog and their needs
- Discuss any dietary and medication needs in advance
- Ask about staff’s pet first aid/CPR training and credentials
- Schedule a meet and greet prior to the first stay
- Make sure you feel fully comfortable and confident with the staff
- Don’t hesitate to look elsewhere if the facility isn’t the right fit
Boarding your dog should reduce your worries, not increase them. Keeping these tips in mind when selecting a boarding kennel can help set your dog up for a fun and safe stay while you’re away!
Exploring Personalized Dog Boarding Options Beyond Traditional Kennels
For those seeking alternatives to traditional dog boarding facilities, options like WoofConnect offer a more personalized approach to dog care. This innovative platform bridges the gap between dog owners and a network of dedicated, experienced dog sitters. WoofConnect emphasizes a home-like environment for pets, focusing on the unique needs of each dog, including factors like breed, age, and temperament. The service strives to pair your dog with local dog owners who understand and value the distinct characteristics of your four-legged friend, ensuring a blend of essential care, love, and companionship. This approach is especially suited for owners who prioritize their pet’s well-being and are comforted by the thought of their furry family members receiving individualized attention in a nurturing setting. With services like WoofConnect, the concept of dog boarding is reimagined to prioritize the happiness and comfort of your pet during your absence.