How to Choose a Pet Boarding Kennel

Pets can be like children. It is very important, then, that if you are heading out of town without your furry friend, you find the most suitable pet boarding facility. Knowing your pet is happy and well taken care of will give you peace of mind and also make your absence less traumatic for your pet.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Ask for recommendations from friends who have pets. Then check with your veterinary clinic. Many (but not all!) offer boarding services, which might be a good option if your pet is already familiar and comfortable with the environment and staff.
2. Start calling local pet boarding kennels. Ask questions regarding the facilities, the types of animals cared for, staff on hand, if there is a veterinarian on-site, cost and additional details you may be interested in, including cleaning, feeding and exercise schedules. Find out if each kennel is a member of the American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA). Keep track of each facility's responses on paper by listing the name and phone number of the kennel, followed by answers to your questions and any additional notes.
3. Visit the pet boarding kennels you are interested in based on your phone conversations. Ask for a tour of the facilities and introduce yourself to the staff. Ask yourself: Is the staff friendly? Are the facilities neat and tidy? Are cages of adequate size and separated by solid panels? Are the facilities safe? Do currently boarded pets seem happy? Do they seem comfortable with the staff?
4. Ask the boarding kennel about their "rules." For example, are you required to provide documentation of vaccinations and treatments, such as flea and tick control? Does the kennel feed a certain type of food, or do you need to provide your own? Will you need to provide your own leash? Are you allowed to bring in pet blankets and beds from home?
5. Make a final decision on your pet boarding kennel of choice. Double-check that the kennel has space available for the dates you will be gone. Ask to bring your pet in for a "tour," as well, so the environment is somewhat familiar before you leave.
6. Enjoy your trip, knowing your pet is happy and healthy at a quality pet boarding kennel!

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the pet boarding kennel in question.
• Plan well in advance, especially if you plan to travel on or near a holiday. Begin this process at least 1 or 2 months in advance!
• If you and your pet are not completely comfortable with any of the pet boarding kennel options, you may wish to consider hiring an in-home pet sitter.
• If possible, get your pet used to shorter stays at the kennel before leaving him there for an extended period.