The Responsible Pet Owner’s Guide to Boarding

The Responsible Pet Owner’s Guide to Boarding

Your pet is precious to you, and if you need to use a pet boarding or pet-sitting service while on vacation, you may feel anxious. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to make sure that your pet is safe, happy, and well cared for while you’re away.

Visit Pet Boarding Facilities in Person
The only way to really know how well a pet boarding facility operates is to visit it in person. While at the pet hotel or pet kennel, take note of the sights, sounds, and smells that greet you. Ask yourself if the employees seem friendly, relaxed, and capable and if the customers and pets that you see look happy and satisfied. The pet kennel or pet hotel should be clean, comfortable, and well-ventilated. Any outdoor areas in which pets can play should be well maintained and completely secure.

Find Out How They Handle Pet Emergencies
While you’re at your local pet hotel or pet kennel, ask to speak to a manager about their boarding practices. Find out how the staff handles pet emergencies that may arise while pet sitting. Do they have a veterinarian on-site, or will they take your pet to its own veterinarian? Are all of the staff members trained on how to quickly and appropriately handle an emergency situation? Do they isolate pets that appear ill, or aggressive? Do they keep an easily accessible list of each pet’s individual allergies or health issues?

Ask About Their Boarding Requirements
Each pet hotel or pet kennel will have specific requirements that pets must meet before being boarded. Your local pet hotel should require that all pets be fully vaccinated before they are boarded. Pets should also be healthy and show no signs of illness upon arriving at the facility. You should also find out if you need to supply your own food, toys, blankets, and treats for your pet.