The most obvious and simple option is to
consider a kennel or boarding house for your pet, but before deciding on one, ask your friends and vet for their recommendation. Then call them based on your research. Naturally, you will have a number of
questions to ask but might not be sure where to
start. Here are some helpful tips:
Interview The Kennel
This is very important. Before making any
reservation, speak on the phone and if possible, in person with the people at the kennel. Ask for references and try to find out how much
experience they have in running the facility.
Give Them a Surprise Visit
After interviewing them, put aside one day to pay them a surprise visit. This will help you to determine how the place
works, how the handlers treat animals there, and examine closely the condition
of the cages and facilities.
Ask Important Questions Regarding
Exercise
There are some pet boarding facilities that
let dogs out only twice a day and for a few minutes at a time. You will need to
look for another place if their schedule isn’t suitable for your pet.
Inquire About Their Feeding Norms
It’s important to know what and how they
will feed your dog, what brand of pet feed they use, is it of good quality, etc.
Many pets can develop diarrhea and vomiting as a result of eating food that
they are not accustomed to.
Determine Interaction with Other Dogs
Find out whether your dog will be placed
with others (especially bigger sized dogs) or if your pet will be separate. If they
do allow dogs to play and interact together, make sure to observe the
attendants at duty during playtime. Remember to ask the facility about their
policies and protocol regarding playtime.
What Will Happen In the Event of a Sickness
or Injury
It’s essential to find out the
facility’s protocol when a pet gets sick or injured, how they address such
a concern, and treat the pet in question. Also find out whether the staff keeps logs about your dog and notes important information such as your dog’s appetite,
water intake, defecation, urination and other important points.
Provide Your Dog's Full Medical History
This will help them determine whether or
not the facility can facilitate your pet in the event that you require
some special treatment or has special needs. Include as much information as possible about your dog’s conditions, medications and any
other problems, such as behavioral issues.
Leave Special Instructions and Contact
Information
Last but not the least, provide the
handlers with a list of all special instructions you think are necessary,
regarding nutrition, medication, naptime, etc. Also provide them contact
information where they can reach you in case of an emergency or just to provide
a report about your dog.
Tips
offered by Mario Penn, a trained dog handler and owner of SpoiltRotten Dogs, a boutique dog boarding and day care centre in Sydney.