Do you travel a lot? Or do you only go out of town once in a while? No matter how often you go away, it’s a good idea for you to develop a strong relationship with a reputable kennel. Not only will your dog find being boarded easier if he is familiar with his second home, but this will be easier on you as well! Of course, you don’t want to let just anyone take care of your beloved canine companion. What you really want is an outstanding kennel that you can go back to time and time again. That sort of solid, trusted setup will give you peace of mind and confidence that your beloved pet is secure, comfy, and being properly cared for in your absence. Read on for some helpful tips from a local Cumberland County veterinarian on choosing kennels

Take In The General Atmosphere

You can usually get a pretty good impression of a kennel by observing how the personnel and pets interact. If every employee appears to be anxious and dissatisfied, that’s not really a good sign. And, while some of the pets may be less than delighted to be away from home, they should be comfortable and well-cared for. This also pertains to phone etiquette and the way you are treated on the phone.

Inspect For Cleanliness

When touring a kennel, look at how clean it is (or isn’t.) Cleanliness should be a top priority. A messy kennel indicates that the personnel are not committed to keeping their facilities clean and sanitary, which speaks volumes about their overall quality standards. That is not to imply you should expect it to be completely immaculate. Dogs and cats aren’t the neatest roommates, after all. However, it should normally appear clean and well-kept, and it definitely should not reek of urine and/or feces.

We recommend asking how often kennels are cleaned and sanitized.

Confirm Feeding/Packaging Policies

different kennels have varying policies about whether or not you can bring Fido’s bed. However, most should permit certain toys or comfort items. They should also be clear about food requirements.

Ask About Pet Exercise Opportunities

Many kennels provide additional walks, cuddle sessions, or playtime as an add-on. However, your dog should be walked at least twice a day as part of the basic package. If Fido has his own run, once per day should suffice.

Consider Pets’ Privacy

While some pets are very social and like spending time with their friends, others are apprehensive and would feel uncomfortable with too many neighbors. Pets should always have their own sleeping spaces. Kitties should also be kept in a separate area from dogs.

Check The Kennel Setup

A boarding kennel should be substantially larger than one seen at a veterinary office or groomer. Your pet should be able to sit, stand, stretch, stroll, and turn around without being constrained by the kennel walls or roof.

Ask About Safety Protocols

You should also consider the kennel’s safety and security measures. You’ll want to choose a location that includes safety elements like high walls, double gates, and security cameras. These things help to ensure that pets cannot escape.

Consider Air Quality

A good kennel will have a decent ventilation system. This not only reduces foul odors and keeps the air fresh, but it also lowers the chance of germ transmission.

Verify There’s Climate Control

Climate control is another important feature to look for. Even if you live in a relatively steady climate, you have to make sure that your pet is protected from heat and/or cold.

Read Over Standards/Policies

Good kennels also have certain restrictions for the pets they accept. For example, many would not accept puppies or kittens that have not finished their first round of vaccinations. They’ll also be picky about their customers, and they may evaluate each pet before booking them to ensure that they only allow nice, well-behaved guests inside their facility. That is critical for the safety of both the kennel staff and the other pets they are caring for.

Look Into Options For Emergency Veterinary Care

While we hope none of you will have to deal with your pet having an emergency in a kennel, it is vital to know that if something happens, your pet will receive swift attention. Inquire if the kennel has a veterinarian on staff or if they work closely with a certain clinic.

Of course, there is a lot to be said about boarding with your vet. They would already know Fido and be familiar with his medical history. There’s also a lot to be said for one-stop shopping! 

Ask About The Available Perks and Upgrades

Kennels all work a little differently. Many are becoming more like luxury hotels or spas for their canine companions. Inquire about the extras you can get for your four-legged companion! These may include things like extra cuddles, treats, catnip, playing, or walks.

Find Out About Documentation/Vaccination Requirements

Avoid any kennel that does not require confirmation of your pet’s recent vaccinations. Good kennels would require that Fido be up to date on not only his core vaccines but also a few non-core ones, such as Bordetella and Parvo. This is crucial, as these immunizations can protect your pet from very dangerous viruses. 

They may also require information or documents regarding your pet’s medical history. Make sure to provide all necessary info clearly. Ideally, it should be in both written and verbal form. 

Kennel Setup

Many boarding kennels allow both dogs and cats. However, Fido and Fluffy should never be kept close together. Being in a room with a lot of dogs can be quite distressing for cats! Cats should have their own space. This should be kept isolated from the dogs so that the cats don’t see (or, ideally, hear) their canine neighbors.

Look Into Reservation Procedures

Booking policies will vary because each kennel operates differently. However, you should ensure that the kennel has appropriate cancellation and extended stay policies. Go over any documents thoroughly, and make sure you are clear on (and okay with) rates.

Check The Kennel’s Reputation

Just as part of your due diligence, look for reviews regarding the kennel. One or two negative reviews among many positive ones may not be a dealbreaker, as they could indicate difficult customers. You want to find a place where the vast majority of feedback is good.

You can also ask friends, coworkers, neighbors, and family members to recommend a reputable kennel.

What Are The Staff Members’ Qualifications?

One thing you should ask about is the training and experience of the staff members running the kennel. While it may be appropriate to delegate some chores, such as cleaning, to newer employees, more experienced employees should always be present.

Pets require a significant amount of attention and care. Making sure the dog boarding kennel has a reasonable guest-to-staff ratio is appropriate.

Conclusion: When looking for a kennel for your pet, you should consider numerous aspects of the kennel’s design, protocols, and procedures. Some of these include immunization needs, as well as safety features, cleaning schedules, veterinarian access, ventilation, temperature control, and booking procedures. Researching a kennel does not have to take long, but knowing what you’re looking for and what to avoid will help you limit down your options and guarantee that you’re choosing the greatest setting for your furry bestie.

Book A Stay At Our Cumberland County Pet Boarding Kennel

Are you seeking a fantastic place away from home for your pet? Please feel free to contact us here at your Cumberland County veterinary clinic and pet boarding facility.