How to Choose a Dog Kennel
What to Look for in a Care Giver for Your Pet; Finding a Pet Sitter
May 23, 2008
Going on vacation? Need somewhere for your pet to stay? Where to find a boarding facility or "pet hotel" you can be comfortable with.
If you watch the television commercials, you would think dog kennels or "doggy day care centers" are nicer than the hotels humans stay in. But the slick packaging that advertising agencies put together is definitely not the same as the actual facility. Before you leave your beloved pet in the care of a kennel you’ve never heard of, take a good hard look at the accommodations.
What to Look for in a Dog Kennel:
- Visit the facility at least four weeks before you leave. If you’re planning a vacation in July, make sure you begin touring kennels at the beginning of June. Be sure you stop by unannounced and ask for a tour. Look carefully at the accommodations. Granted, it won’t be like a four star hotel. But the animals should appear well cared for. The staff should be friendly and passionate about the pets in their care. Are the sleeping arrangements similar to what you provide for your dog at home? Is there enough room for the animals to run and play? Is the food nutritious and plentiful? Don’t be afraid to talk to the manager and ask to see the facility’s menu. Also take a look at the packaging that the meals are delivered in. Is it cheap, filler stuff, or good, quality dog food? These are questions you need to ask before leaving your cuddly canine in anyone’s hands, even if only for a few days.
- Ask for references. Of course the facility will only give you the telephone numbers of customers who are very satisfied. But if you ask pointed, specific questions, you can usually find out a lot. For instance, ask the person to compare this particular kennel with others he/she has used in the past. Probe the dog owner for any negative experiences he has had with this particular facility. Find out if the family’s animal came away from the kennel experience happy, or if the dog was somehow distressed, or not in the same playful mood as he usually is. These are clues that will give you a good indication of how your pet might experience the same situation.
- Bring your pet to the kennel for a trial stay. See if the facility will allow you to bring your pet for one night. That way, you’ll get a better idea of whether you want to keep your dog there for an extended stay. But only do this with a kennel you are serious about using. You don’t want to bring your pet to five different kennels for over-night visits. First of all, it can get expensive, and secondly, you don’t want to stress your pet unnecessarily.
- Compare prices. Of course, your pet’s safety and well-being is the most important consideration. But if all else is equal, look for the best value for the money. Before putting down a deposit, check online and in your local newspaper for coupons. And don’t be afraid to ask the facility if they will take their competitor’s coupons.
Finally, if you know your pet is well cared for, you’ll be more relaxed on your own vacation. And the entire experience will be less traumatic and stressful when you plan your next trip.
The copyright of the article How to Choose a Dog Kennel in Consumer Education is owned by L. Marie Dubuque. Permission to republish How to Choose a Dog Kennel in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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