Holidays are coming soon! Find the right boarding house for your pet

Going on vacation is a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but for pet owners, it can also be a source of stress. Finding a good pet boarding facility to look after your pet while you’re on vacation is crucial to ensuring the well-being of your four-legged friend. Here are some tips to help you choose the best option for your pet.

1. Do thorough research

The first step in finding a good boarding facility is to do your research. Check online reviews on pet boarding sites and social media to see what other pet owners think of the facility. Recommendations from your veterinarian or friends can also be invaluable.

2. Visit the facilities

Once you have a list of potential pensions, it is essential to visit them in person. During your visit, pay attention to several aspects:

• Cleanliness: Facilities must be clean and well maintained. A dirty place can be a breeding ground for diseases.
• Living spaces: Animals must have enough space to move around and feel comfortable. Make sure cages or enclosures are adequately sized.
• Safety: Make sure the kennel is secure, with strong fencing and security measures to prevent escapes.

3. Ask the right questions

During your visit, don’t hesitate to ask lots of questions. Here are some examples of important questions:

• What is the daily routine for animals?
• How are the animals fed and how often?
• What types of exercises are planned?
• Is there staff on site 24 hours a day?
• What happens in the event of a medical emergency?
• Do animals receive individual attention?

4. Does the manager ask you for information?

Similarly, you should be asked several questions about your pet before taking him in. A daycare that asks nothing at all would be less likely to take good care of him. It is indeed important for the boarding kennel to know the profile and particularities of your pet (getting along with its peers, stress when faced with the unknown, tolerance to handling, allergies, etc.).

5. Check staff qualifications and experience

It is important that the staff of the kennel are well trained and experienced in animal management and animal behavior. Ask about the qualifications of the employees, their experience with animals and their ability to handle different situations. For example, are the employees familiar with body language and stress signals? Do they know how to recognize a good understanding between two dogs, or, on the contrary, the signs of discord?

6. Consider your pet’s specific needs

Every pet has different needs. Make sure the boarding facility you choose can meet your pet’s specific needs. For example, if your pet requires regular medication, check that the staff are able to administer it properly. If your pet is particularly outgoing, a boarding facility that offers interaction with other animals may be ideal. On the other hand, for a more reserved pet, a quieter environment may be preferable.

7. Check vaccination and health policies

A good boarding facility will require all animals to be up to date on their vaccinations. This helps prevent the spread of disease. Also ask about their policies in case of illness or injury. A responsible boarding facility should have a clear plan for handling these situations.

8. Try before you go

If possible, try to leave your pet at the kennel for a short period of time before your vacation. This could be overnight or over the weekend. This will allow your pet to get used to the environment and staff, and will give you an idea of how they are adjusting. It is also a great way to see how the daycare handles animals on a day-to-day basis.

Share