Leaving your pet alone with other people isn’t easy, but these questions you should ask before choosing a boarding kennel will guide you through the process of making the tough decision. We all want the best for our furry companions.
What Vaccinations Are Required?
Most kennels will require vaccinations, but the industry is still unregulated, so make sure to ask. This is a list of what vaccinations should be required:
Canine Vaccinations
- Canine distemper
- Infectious hepatitis
- - Canine parvovirus
- Rabies
Feline Vaccinations
- Feline panleukopenia
- - Feline herpesvirus
- Feline calicivirus
- Rabies
It’s important to remember to ask what quarantine procedures they have in place to prevent infection if the kennel doesn’t require vaccinations. Bodily fluids and even air can spread diseases. There is a chance your pet will get a disease even if they’re vaccinated.
How Often Are the Dogs Taken Out?
Five times is the best answer, but three times is the minimum. Be sure to ask what times they’ll be taken out and for how long. Additionally, ask if they’ll be taken out on a lease or released into a pen. Your pet deserves exercise and fresh air while you’re away, so don’t forget about this question when you’re finding the right place to board them.
Will They Feed Your Pet Their Regular Food?
Veterinarians advise against changing your pet’s food because it will lead to digestive issues. Additionally, consistency is important when it comes to feeding animals; for example, consistency gives them a feeling of security, which is important since you’ll be away. Make sure to ask about this while you’re choosing the right boarding kennel for your pet.
Do Staff Play With or Pet Them?
Ask if there are designated times for the staff to play with and interact with your pet. Question how long they interact with them and how they play with them. Mental stimulation and physical exercise are, of course, vital for all types of pets, so you want to make sure they’re getting their fill.
How Are They Housed?
Kennels should have good ventilation, but the animals shouldn’t be able to see or hear one another as this could cause aggression. Most kennels put up barriers to avoid this. Make sure your pet has adequate space to move around and go to the bathroom. All cats should have a litter box in their kennels.
Do They Offer Additional Services?
Many will provide free extra services such as teeth brushing, bathing, training, and extra playtime. Some kennels even offer playgroups. If it’s a veterinary boarding kennel, they also could provide minor procedures and vaccinations.
Warning Signs
If you show up at the boarding kennel and these signs are on display, it’s not the right one.
- It doesn’t smell good.
- The outdoor pens don’t have shelter from the sun.
Boarding your beautiful pet can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding how the kennel operates and asking the right questions before choosing a boarding kennel will help ease your mind.
