A Positive Dog Boarding Experience

Dog boarding is even a bit difficult for me, but only because it's not home!

My family takes me to a great kennel when they have to go away without me. It's a wonderful place and I get outstanding care, but it still makes me a bit anxious.

Spa Dog

"Let's go to the doggie spa!"

Even if you have the best of experiences, you may feel the same way about dog boarding. There is, indeed, no place like home.

But, there are times, perhaps, when you can't count on a friend or family member to act as pet-sitter or take your dog into their home for you.

It's great to have a good dog boarding option that you know will provide good care for your guy.

How to Make a Good Choice

As with so many things regarding your furry family member, when venturing into something new, get as many personal recommendations as you can from people you trust.

Ask family, friends, your dog's Doc and acquaintances where they prefer to do dog boarding and about their experiences. Give serious consideration to everything they say.

Once you have at two or three good recommendations, make a surprise visit and ask for a tour! Tell them you're a little nervous about leaving your dog at a kennel and just want to check out the place. If they don't tour you or you are not comfortable with the cleanliness of the place, take them off your list.

Be sure to ask lots of questions while touring. How much space will your dog get? How often will he be taken outside? Walked? Is weekend care different from weekday care? How do they guard against sickness at the kennel? What about controlling kennel cough? What additional services do they provide? Is grooming available? Doggie spa trip! Ask anything that comes to mind.

Likewise, if you're not totally put at ease by the workers there, take them off your list. Both, your dog and you, are customers, and should be treated as such. You need to feel good about everything associated with where you will be leaving your furry family member.

If you have a good experience while touring, you can certainly also ask them for references. Give each of the references a call and ask about their experiences with dog boarding at the facility.

If you have any doubt whether a certain pet motel will take great care of your dog, try another. You must absolutely be able to fully trust that your guy is going to get good care while you're away.

The Big Day!

That first time you drop your fella off for dog boarding will be anxious for both of you. That's ok and normal. Be well prepared. Take him in and get out quickly. Don't linger with a long good-bye. You can enjoy the reunion when you return!

Be sure he is up to date with a bordetella vaccination. It provides protection against kennel cough. Many kennels will not take him unless his bordetella is current. In fact, most vaccinations should be up to date.

It is wise to verify exactly what vaccinations are required for boarding. There are also occasions, when dog boarding with a Vet, that they will update his shots while there. Perfectly fine... and convenient!

If you think it will comfort your guy to bring a favorite toy, blanket or an old, worn t-shirt of yours to help keep him calm while you are gone, please do so. The kennel should have no problem with it.

And, again, just drop him off and leave. A very short and immediate "good-bye" and don't be emotional. It will be best for both of you.

And, if you must, go ahead and call the kennel while you're away so you can be reassured that everything is ok!

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