Every pet wants to be with its master; however, it’s not always possible. You might be craving for a vacation or a long trip. Or sometimes, you have to go out of town due to unforeseen emergencies. While it’s possible to travel with your pooch, it may not be feasible at times. Though you can leave your pet with your friends or family, they too can have urgent situations, making this option unreliable.
Well, no need to put yourself and your pet in so much stress! A little planning and research to find a pet boarding facility, and you’re good to go. Read on to know how to choose the best dog boarding or daycare facility for your precious one-
Decide What Type Of Pet Boarding You Want
Many of the dog boarding facilities offer a wide array of features and services. Know what type of boarding you want-
Kennels
These establishments offer private or semi-private kennels for dogs or puppies. Kennels keep your pets isolated from the others at the boarding facility. This type of boarding is best for aggressive dogs or those who don’t mingle with the other dogs.
Cage-Free Boarding
These boarding facilities provide homely experience to your pet. This type of boarding is mostly run by pet-loving individuals who love to house the furry guests at their home. Home or cage-free boarding is a good option for shy or timid dogs.
Pet Resorts
They offer private and semi-private spaces for pets, along with big, open fields or a pool. This facility provides kennel-type, as well as home-style boarding for your pets. These are perfect for playful and energetic dogs.
Look For The Pairing Criteria
If your dog is going to share space with the other dogs, discuss the boarding criteria in detail. Discuss your pet’s nature with the administrator so that they can decide what other dogs they can pair with yours. Some facilities keep small and large dogs separate, whereas others keep them grouped by age. Also, check the property’s arrangements to isolate your pet in case of a fight.
Inspect The Food Arrangements
When you leave your pets to a boarding facility, they miss you! If they don’t get good food during this time, it may put them at serious health risks. Check if the facility serves non-processed, organic food to your pet. Or, you can hand over food packets while dropping your pet there. A balanced diet will reduce stress and help them have a comfortable stay.
Ask What Vaccinations Are Required To Admit The New Guests
The next step is to talk to the administrator about the essential vaccinations. The vaccination protocols followed by a boarding facility define how safe your pet will be with them. As pets are susceptible to several infections when they get together in a big gathering, they must be vaccinated for Rabies, Distemper, Kennel Cough, etc.
Ensure That The Supervision Staff Is Well-trained
Leaving your pets alone when they are anxious isn’t a good idea. Even the most docile dogs tend to behave unpredictably under stress. However, you can lessen their anxiety with some necessary precautions.
Check if the boarding arranges well-trained and qualified staff members to supervise your doggy’s stay. The boarding administration is responsible for your pet’s well-being while you are away. So, ascertain that your dog is in experienced hands.
Stay Vigilant All The Time
Even if you’ve prepared your pooch, it’s crucial to check in on them periodically during their stay. Many boarding facilities offer a 24x7 live camera feed to your pet’s kennel. Make sure that the boarding staff has your contact information handy if there is an emergency.
These are some of the essentials you must consider while searching for a pet boarding. It’s good to visit the facility a few times before you drop your dog there for his stay. The boarding may have good reviews online but may fall short of your expectations in reality.
So, in order to avoid this disappointment, don’t believe anything unless you see it for yourself. It may sound like too much effort, but it is better being safe than feeling sorry later.
