How to Find the Best Dog Kennel

If you’re not comfortable hiring a pet sitter to stop by or stay at your home while you’re gone, a dog boarding kennel is a great alternative. How do you know which one is the best dog kennel? There are different things to consider when you’re choosing a kennel for your pets. Keep the following in mind in order to find the top kennel in your area.

Cleanliness

You know that living with pets comes with a certain amount of mess, but the best dog kennels provide a clean environment. Look for a place that cleans up accidents and other messes as quickly as possible to prevent the spread of germs. This helps lower the risk of your pets becoming ill during their stay.

Fresh Water

When you take a tour of dog boarding facilities, look for bowls of fresh water. The best facilities ensure that dogs have access to fresh, clean water on a regular basis. If you don’t see water or if you see bowls that look dirty, keep looking for a boarding facility that is better and safer for your pets.

Exercise and Play

Some boarding facilities offer minimal services. Dogs in these places usually stay in their kennels most of the day and only leave for a couple of short walks. The best dog kennel will provide dogs with opportunities to run around and play, which helps them burn off energy and stimulates their minds. This helps keep dogs happy and prevents boredom during their stay.

Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff

The environment and available activities are important factors when choosing a dog kennel, but it’s also crucial to find a place with staff members who are great with dogs. Keep in mind that the top dog kennels have staff members who are friendly, patient and knowledgeable about dogs. They should be able to deal with any issues that occur and help keep dogs happy while they are there.

When you find the best dog kennel, make sure that the dates you need are open. The top kennels tend to get booked fast, so make your reservations early.

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.

10 things you should know about dog boarding

If you’ve never boarded your dog before, it’s understandable that you might be a bit concerned about what to expect. Here are some important things to keep in mind to ensure that you have some peace of mind.

1. Make reservations early.

Some boarding places get booked up fast, especially around holidays. Reserve your dog’s spot as early as possible.

2. Your dog won’t necessarily spend all day in a kennel.

Some places offer dogs playtime so they can stay active and be social. This is a good way for your dog to get exercise and make friends.

3. Dogs need to have updated vaccines.

Dog boarding facilities typically require dogs to have up-to-date vaccines, including rabies and distemper.

4. You can usually bring your dog’s food.

Many boarding places allow you to bring your dog’s usual food instead of eating the food that they provide.

5. Some facilities aren’t staffed 24/7.

Some only have someone come in for walks and feeding. Other places have someone there around-the-clock.

6. Some places offer special perks.

Some dog boarding facilities offer spa services and other perks for an additional fee, such as treats at bedtime.

7. Your dog will receive emergency care.

This usually means bringing dogs to the closest emergency clinic when immediate care is needed.

8. In person visits are a must.

It’s important to take a tour of the boarding facility to make sure it offers a clean, safe and friendly environment for your dog.

9. Boarding facilities can handle special care instructions.

If your dog needs medication, a special diet or any other special care, leave instructions with the boarding facility.

10. Information on your dog’s temperament is important.

Let the boarding facility know if your dog has any behavioral issues, such as being shy around other dogs.