Boarding your dog at a kennel for an extended period can be daunting.

However, sometimes there isn’t another alternative.

Here are the right questions to ask when searching for a place to leave your dogs for an extended period.

What the best method of contact is and how often can you check in on your dog?

Now every situation is different whether you are on an extended vacation, in the hospital, moving, renovating your house, or any other reason and you have to leave your dog at a facility. The first thing you have to ask is; what the best method of contact is and how often can you check in on your dog? You may be able to call, stop in for a visit, or have them send you pictures or videos. If possible, all of the above are ideal. Depending on how long your dog is boarding if you are capable of stopping by it is beneficial for both of you. If your situation doesn’t allow for that pictures and video are a great way to boost your mood and check the status of your dog. Has it lost or gained weight? Does it look stressed? You know your dog and will be able to keep tabs on if this is a situation that is ideal or if you need to look into alternatives.

How will they deal with your dog’s personality?

A lot will have to do with your dog’s personality as well if they are prone to be shy or skittish ask how the staff plans to handle it. Do they give them a little extra one on one time? Do they make sure your dog is getting a little extra love and attention? How many dogs with personalities like yours have they dealt with in the past? Most times just getting to know the staff better and becoming more comfortable with them eliminates much of the anxiety.

What do you need to bring?

Some facilities are full service and don’t need you to bring anything. Others may want you to bring your own blankets, toys, etc.

What do they feed?

Your dog’s nutrition is of the utmost importance. You either want to make sure the food they provide is of the same quality as yours or make sure you leave enough and extra for the time you’re away.

What is their exercise program?

For dogs especially getting out and being able to run around in a yard either by themselves or with some friends is ideal for any boarding situation. It becomes crucial when they are there for an extended period. Fresh air is good for everyone, the more the facility is willing to let them out, the better. The exercise for your dog will get rid of excess tension, allowing them to relax more fully during downtime. Cats may need less exercise but ask if they have access to a full room to explore or extra snuggles from staff. They most likely won’t need it every day as a dog would but a few times a week to every other day would be more than sufficient. It also again depends on your dog’s energy level and age, however, even older dogs still need stimulation and to stretch their legs. Are you able to watch the dogs interact with the staff and each other? There should be some combination of tail wagging, wrestling, playing with the other dogs, and sniffing exploring the yards. As well as sunbathing or break constant interaction is not necessarily ideal. They should also have continuous access to water wherever they are whether it be in a daycare yard or their suite.

Are you able to tour the facility?

It is crucial; you want to know what the facility looks like and all the areas your dog will have access to during its stay. On your tour, you want to monitor the environment where dogs stay and cleanliness of a facility. If a dog knocked it’s food or water over is a common occurrence to be overlooked and is no big deal. However, is their molding dog kibbles in nooks and crannies that aren’t easily reached? If a dog had an accident in its space, how long does it take for them to clean it? The stale smell of urine? Not only are these things unpleasant, but they also raise the chance’s your dog will get sick while they are there. You also want to check the security of the areas. Are there holes that a dog could dig out under a fence, that haven’t been filled? Is there a chain link that has sharp points, your dog could catch itself? Suitable facilities will do this regular maintenance fixing these issues. Look at the dogs already there. Look to see how they are interacting and their overall countenance.  

Will they take your dog to your veterinarian if something happens?

In an emergency and you or someone you know can’t take your dog to the veterinarian if something happens. Are they willing and able to have a staff member transport your dog to the veterinarian? If they can’t get in touch with you are they willing to do it regardless? They should, at check-in, a protocol should be discussed with you about what to do in emergency situations if your emergency contact can’t be reached. Now if your veterinarian is too far away from the facility. You can research or ask for a recommendation of which veterinary hospital they would bring them to in the area.

Get your dog used to the facility

Drop your dog off for shorter stays to get them comfortable with the staff and facility. If they offer dog daycare, you can leave them for the day or if you’re going away for a weekend let your dog check it out and know that you’ll be back to pick them up.

Can they groom your dog before it goes home?

It doesn’t matter how clean the facility is you want your dog to at least get a bath before they go home. So you can give your furry friend lots of snuggles and hugs you missed while you were away.

If you do your research and ask the right questions, both you and your dog can have peace of mind in a situation that may not be ideal. These questions will ensure your dog will have the best pet care in your absence