Boarding your dog can be a stressful experience for both you and your furry friend. Choosing the right facility and properly preparing your dog can make the process smoother and ensure your pet has a comfortable and safe stay. Here’s what you need to know about dog boarding, including a comprehensive checklist and what to expect during and after boarding.
What is Important when choosing a boarding facility for dogs?
When choosing a boarding facility for dogs, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure your pet’s well-being:
- Reputation & Reviews: Research the facility's reputation. Look for reviews online and ask for recommendations from friends, family, or veterinarians.
- Cleanliness & Safety: Visit the facility to check for cleanliness, proper ventilation, and secure fencing. The environment should be safe, free from hazards, and well-maintained.
- Staff qualifications: Ensure the staff is trained and experienced in handling dogs. Ask about their training in pet first aid and CPR.
- Health policies: Check the facility’s health requirements. A good boarding facility will require proof of vaccinations and protocols to prevent disease spread.
- Emergency procedures: Ask about the facility’s emergency procedures. Is there a veterinarian on call? How do they handle medical emergencies?
- Comfort and enrichment: Look for a facility that provides comfortable sleeping areas, regular exercise, and mental stimulation. This can include playtime, socialization with other dogs, and individual attention.
Understand the boarding facility's rules and policies
Before you board your dog at a new facility, it's essential to discuss their rules, regulations, and the services they provide. For instance, inquire about the type of food they provide, what personal items you can bring for your dog (like toys and blankets), their emergency procedures, and if they can administer any necessary medication. Getting details about the facility's policies, procedures, and services will help you choose the best place for your dog's home away from home.
We've included some important information from our team at our boarding facility in Jackson.
Ensure that your dog's vaccinations are up to date
Each dog boarding kennel has its own criteria, but all reputable boarding facilities have one requirement in common: your dog's vaccinations must be up to date. They will need proof that your dog has received all the required immunizations because many common dog illnesses and diseases can spread quickly in kennel settings. This requirement is in place to keep your dog and the other dogs at the facility safe.
Check out the facility well ahead of time.
Kennels that house a lot of pets can get messy quickly. While a boarding facility can't be kept fully sterile, a high-quality boarding facility will still look and smell clean. So, before booking your dog's stay, visit the kennel and make sure it's kept organized and clean.
Keep your own emotions in check when you drop off your dog.
Dogs are experts at reading the emotions of their pet parents. Your pup can tell if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying goodbye. Your dog's mood and behavior will reflect this, making it harder for them to relax once you leave. Keep things simple, short, and positive to make the separation easier.
Does someone stay overnight at dog boarding?
Not all boarding facilities have staff on-site overnight. It’s important to ask if someone stays overnight at the dog boarding facility to monitor the pets. Facilities with overnight staff can provide additional peace of mind, knowing that your dog is supervised around the clock.
If you are boarding a dog, who is responsible for the health & safety of the dog?
The boarding facility is responsible for the health and safety of the dogs during their stay. This includes providing a safe environment, monitoring the dogs, administering medications, and handling any emergencies. However, as a pet owner, you should ensure that the facility has a solid reputation and adheres to high standards of care.
Are kennels bad for dogs?
Kennels are not inherently bad for dogs. What matters most is the quality of the kennel and the care provided. A well-run kennel with trained staff, clean facilities, and a focus on the dogs’ physical and emotional needs can be a safe and positive environment for your pet. By choosing a reputable facility, preparing your dog, and knowing what to expect, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your furry friend.
Trust your gut when looking for the best place to board your dog.
We believe trusting your instincts is a great first step when choosing a kennel for your dog. If you don't feel comfortable with a place, look for another. If they have a policy you don't like, look around at different kennels until you find one you can trust completely.
Dog Boarding Checklist: What to Bring
Bring the following items when boarding your dog at Jackson Animal Clinic :
- Vaccination records: Bring proof of up-to-date vaccinations.
- Identification tags: Ensure your dog’s ID tag and microchip information are current.
- Medications: Provide any necessary medications with clear instructions.
- Enough food: Pack enough of your dog’s regular food, along with feeding instructions, to last the entire stay.
- Comfort items: Bring familiar items like a blanket, toys, or a piece of clothing with your scent.
- Veterinary information: Provide your veterinarian’s contact details.
What to expect after boarding?
After boarding, your dog might be a bit tired from all the activity and excitement. It's important to understand that they may behave a little differently during the first few days after coming home from the kennel.
Your pup might be clingy, lethargic, or have diarrhea. They may even eat or drink more than usual. However, this is a normal response to your dog's excitement for coming home. But if things don't settle down after a few days, contact your vet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition or boarding needs.