Finding a boarding facility where you can leave your dog for days or weeks can be stressful – after all, pets are part of the family! You want them to have a safe, positive experience that also allows you to enjoy your time away without worry.
When looking for a boarding facility, give yourself plenty of time to do your research so that you have options and aren’t rushing into a decision.
Below is a list of topics to consider and questions to ask when choosing a boarding facility for your dog.
Tour the Facility
All facilities should be willing to show you around during regular business hours. You should be able to see where dogs are housed, and any areas they have access to for play, exercise and socialization.
Cleanliness
The facility should look clean, organized and well-maintained. Food and cleaning supplies should be stored safely, waste promptly removed, and spaces free of clutter. Strong odours, whether from waste or harsh cleaning products, can be overwhelming to a dog’s sensitive nose. Ask how often the kennels are cleaned.
Nutrition and Medical Conditions
You should be able to bring your own food, ideally the same type your dog is used to. Sudden changes in diet can cause stomach upset. Ask how often the animals are fed (twice a day is typical) and what happens if your dog doesn’t eat right away. If your dog prefers to graze, ask how this will be accommodated.
Ask how dogs with medical or behavioural needs are managed. Will they administer necessary medications, or make special accommodations for dogs with special needs?
Socialization
Ask how the facility manages playtime. As not all dogs get along, it’s important to consider how safe socialization will occur. Are dogs exercised individually or in groups? If group play is allowed, are dogs of similar size and temperament placed together? Are they supervised during this play time?
Dog Accommodations
Each dog should have their own private space with enough room to accommodate a bed, food and water dishes, and space to move comfortably. Check what separates each dog’s areas, solid barriers are ideal, and sound insulation is a bonus. If dogs can see one another, stress and tension may arise. Dogs feel safest in cozy, private areas they can call their own.
Monitoring of the Animals
Ask if the facility’s staff monitor your dog’s eating, drinking, and bowel movements. Issues in these areas could be indicators of health issues or stress.
Find out the facility’s plan for after-hours monitoring of the animals. Is someone onsite or able to check on animals outside of regular business hours?
Medical Emergencies
What is the protocol if your dog becomes ill or injured? Will they call your veterinarian or consult their own veterinarian? Who is authorized to make the medical decisions in your absence? You should provide written consent authorizing someone to act on your behalf. Veterinarians require informed consent to treat an animal.
If an animal in the facility shows signs of illness, is there a quarantine protocol?
Facility Emergencies
Does the facility have an emergency evacuation plan in place in case of events like wildfires or extreme weather? What happens in an emergency such as power outage? Is there a backup plan should the climate control fail?
Vaccinations
All dogs entering the facility should be up to date on vaccines. This helps protect your dog from illnesses.
Exercise and Enrichment
Ask how often dogs are let outside for toileting breaks and how exercise and enrichment are incorporated into their day.
Are walks and ball play sessions offered? Is indoor/outdoor access available, and if so, how do dogs access it? Not all dogs are comfortable using doggy doors. Are there limitations for outdoor dog access during extremely hot or cold weather? How is this monitored? How are other replacement enrichment activities implemented?
Staff Training
All facilities should provide staff training programs to ensure the safety of both staff and animals. While it’s unrealistic to expect that everyone on staff will be a certified trainer or behaviourist, it is reasonable to ensure that all staff are familiar with dog body language and can respond appropriately in emergencies.
Can I Bring My Dog’s Personal Possessions?
A facility should be willing to let you bring a familiar bed/blanket and toys to make your dog feel more comfortable. They should also ensure that those possessions remain only with your pet. Dogs can be possessive and sharing toys can lead to a resource guarding situation.
As a caregiver, you know your dog best – their personality, needs, and quirks. A good boarding facility should be willing to adapt to meet those needs. Finding the right facility may take some time, but it’s well worth it for your dog’s well-being and your peace of mind.