What to Expect From a Puppy Hotel

When you’re traveling and staying in a hotel, but can’t bring your pets with you, they can stay in their own hotel. Puppy hotels provide a great place for pets to stay while their owners are away. What can you expect from one of these facilities? These are some of the benefits your pets will enjoy while staying at a puppy hotel.

Comfortable Place to Curl Up

Places that offer basic boarding services generally just have dogs sleep in plain kennels that don’t provide much in the way of comfort. Puppy hotels usually offer sleeping environments that are much more comfortable. Some places even give pups their own plush beds and private rooms to stay in. Others offer cozy blankets or pillows to make sure pets are able to get a good night’s sleep.

Perks for Pampered Pups

When your pets stay at a puppy hotel, there are usually perks available. In some cases, these perks are included when you book your stay. Other places offer these perks for additional fees. Some of the perks that puppy hotels offer include spa services, where pets can get facials, baths with special shampoos and conditioners to keep their coat and skin in great condition, and have their nails trimmed and even painted if requested. Some places also offer puppy massages, extra special treats and one-on-one playtime with a staff member, so pups won’t feel lonely or bored.

Peace of Mind for Pet Owners

Puppy hotels typically have a camera set up that allows pet owners to check on their pups. Some hotels have these cameras installed in play areas, which gives owners a chance to watch their pets play. Puppy hotels will usually provide pet owners with regular updates to let them know how their pets are doing. Owners can find out if their pets are eating ok, if they’re adjusting well to being away from home, and if any special requests they’ve made are being honored.

A Chance to Make Friends

Some puppy hotels have play areas set up where dogs are allowed to spend time together. This gives them a chance to meet new friends, burn off energy and work on their social skills. This is especially important for puppies as they learn how to play nice with other dogs and how to adapt to new surroundings and encounters with other pets and people.

Local Dog Kennels

Arranging for your dog to stay in a kennel is sometimes necessary when you need to travel without your pet. One of the most difficult parts of doing this is choosing a facility. When you compare local dog kennels for your pet, it’s important to keep certain factors in mind. This can help you decide which kennel to choose and provide you with peace of mind that your pet is in good hands.

Is It Clean?

Dogs should stay in kennels that are kept clean on a routine basis. While accidents can occur, they should be cleaned up promptly by staff members. Leaving messes around, or not wiping down surfaces on a regular basis, makes it easier for germs to spread, and infect dogs with illnesses such as kennel cough. Look for local dog kennels that have a clean appearance when you visit the different facilities.

Is It Safe?

Choose a kennel where you’ll feel safe leaving your dog. If your pet is a jumper or escape artist, make sure the place has sturdy fences and enclosures to prevent dogs from getting out. If your dog will be participating in playtime, check the facility’s policies. For example, do they screen dogs for temperament? The safest kennels perform these assessments in order to ensure that no aggressive dogs are around during playtime. If you’re concerned about emergencies, look for a facility that has staff on site at all times. Whether there’s a fire, flood or medical emergency, you can be assured someone will be around to make sure that your pet gets to safety or receives prompt veterinary care.

Are Staff Members Knowledgeable and Friendly?

Staff members should have enough experience to be able to provide high quality care. They should also make you feel comfortable about leaving your pet in their care. Talk to staff members at local dog kennels to find out more about their experience and skills. They should be able to answer any questions you have about dog boarding or your dog’s upcoming stay.

Is It Available?

Some dog kennels can fill up quickly, especially around the holidays. Although you might have found the ideal place for your dog to stay, you’ll need to make sure that they'll have space available. Try to find and book a dog kennel as early as possible, so you won’t miss out on being able to have your pet stay there while you’re away.

What You Should Know About Pet Boarding Costs

Boarding your pets help ensure that they’re taken care of while you’re away from home. If you’re traveling and need to look into boarding facilities, you’re probably wondering what to expect in terms of cost. Keep the following pet boarding cost information in mind, so you can stick to your budget while making sure your pets are being cared for at a quality boarding kennel.

Boarding Rates

Boarding rates vary depending on how many pets will be staying and how long they’ll be there. Charges are typically on a per night basis for dog boarding facilities. These prices will also vary based on location. For example, DoGone Fun charges $50 per night per pet. Additional dogs staying in the same kennel are $30 per night each, while additional dogs staying in separate kennels are $50 per night. Afternoon checkout after 12 p.m. is also available for $20 per pet if you need to pick up your pets later in the day.

Perks and Amenities

Some dog boarding facilities offer certain perks and other amenities for an additional cost. These can range from treats to cuddle time and upgraded bedding. DoGone Fun offers several added luxuries for an additional fee. Biscuits at bedtime are available, as well as frozen yogurt treats, which are great treats for helping dogs stay cool in summer. Other amenities that are available include a home cooked Sunday brunch or a home cooked holiday dinner if you’ll be away during the holidays. Your pets can also have extra comfortable beds, one-on-one cuddle time with a staff member, a 15 minute walk outside and a Kong filled with treats. Freshen up services with dry shampoo are also available.

Cost vs. Quality

When you’re searching for boarding facilities and comparing rates, keep in mind that going with the lowest rate isn’t necessarily the best or safest option. Some boarding facilities have very low prices, but that doesn’t guarantee quality. It’s important to look into each facility to make sure they have well trained staff, clean kennels and play areas, and secure enclosures. At DoGone Fun, your pets stay in a clean and safe environment and are cared for by highly trained and skilled staff members. While our pet boarding cost might be higher than others in the area, we offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your pets are staying in a high quality boarding facility.