Top 5 Questions To Ask When Boarding Your Pet In A Kennel

Posted on: 13 June 2016

Whether you're family is going on vacation or you have a planned business trip, it isn't always possible to find a pet sitter to stay with your pup. One great alternative is to board your dog in a reputable kennel, such as Alpha K-9 Kennels. Before deciding on a facility, it is important that you arrange for a tour and have a few questions ready for the tour guide. 

Will My Dog Get Time Outside?

Look for a kennel that schedules plenty of walks and outdoor time. Is the outdoor area secure? You don't want your dog escaping and being alone in an unknown area. Are there toys in the yard, like balls and puppy igloos? Pets need stimulation just like humans and a few toys will keep your dog active while you're away. 

Will Anyone Check on My Dog at Night?

Make sure you ask about the kennel's staff and if anyone is on night duty. The best facilities have staff do regular checks throughout the evening in case any of the dogs get sick or just need a little extra attention. If the kennel is under staffed, you can be certain that your furry friend won't get the attention it needs. 

Will You Stick to My Feeding Schedule?

Some kennels feed their boarded animals at the same time each day; however, if your pup is used to a certain schedule, you'll want to find a facility that will stick to it. Dogs can easily become stressed in new situations and there's no reason to add to it by not feeding the canine when he is expecting to eat. Make sure the staff can work with your schedule before you sign on the dotted line. 

Is There a Flea Control Policy?

Inquire as to whether the kennel has a flea control policy. Some facilities will simply check your pet upon arrival, while others require all dogs to be taking a vet prescribed flea medication. The last thing you want is to bring your dog home after your business trip only to discover he got fleas while at the doggy daycare facility. 

Are There Any Vaccination Requirements?

Kennels differ on their vaccination requirements. This can be a good thing or a bad thing. You may not want your dog to have a long list of vaccinations, in which case, you'll need to look for a boarding house that doesn't require anything but a rabies vaccine. On the other hand, you may want to make sure your dog is protected from catching something another dog might have. Then a kennel with strict vaccination requirements is the better option. 

Don't forget to browse the crates the dogs are housed in to make sure they are clean and spacious enough for your pet. Then review the boarding contract carefully before making your final decision. 

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