Pet Services

How to Find a Boarding Kennel

Sometimes, it is impossible to take your furry friend with you when you travel. Extended business and holiday travel are the main culprits.  Leaving your dog behind can be just as stressful on both of you as the long absense will be.

Finding the best place that will provide all of the specific services and attentions needed as well as a staff you can trust seems impossible.  Start as soon as you know when you will be leaving and for how long.  Check out various kennels online, getting references from clients and make a personal visit to each one.The best starting point is to know exactly what your needs are and what services are necessary for your dog.  It is also important to know what your budget will allow.

The best kennels are not always the busy ones. A busy kennel is a good sign however, of repeat business, and satsified customers are the sign of a good kennel.  The most expensive kennel is also not always the best kennel.  The best kennel is the kennel that supplies the services you need at a price you can afford.

Ask your vet or groomer for refcommendations. Don't forget family and friends and coworkers. They, or someone they know may have used a kennel, or maybe even knows someone who works at one or is in the kennel business.  You never know- someone's Aunt Martha may have a neighbor that takes in one or two dogs at a time while the owner's are away. 

When you make your visits to the kennels you have picked out,  make sure to observe the outside of the building before you even go inside.  A neat, well kept exterior speaks well of how the kennel is run.  Once inside, staff should be knowledgeable and able to answer any questions you have.  On your tour, notice things like the size of the individual spaces, whether or not there is access to an outdoor run or excercise yard, and how well each kennel space is maintained.  Each space should have its own water and food bowls as well as sleeping areas.  The area shoulld be well ventilated with proper lighting.  The aroma should be clean and pleasant - no urine or dirty smell.

Don't forget to discuss emergency care, what type of food is normally fed, and if necessary, whether or not you are able to provide your own pet's food.  If so, how and where will it be stored.  If your dog takes medication on a regular basis, make sure you address their ability to administer the medications.