Finding the Right Boarding Kennel

For most dog owners who have to leave their special friend in a boarding facility during travels over the holidays or on business causes nearly as much stress as the trip itself. Searching for the best place for your dog that will provide the specific services and attention to detail you require along with providing safety features and a responsible staff you can trust is equally crucial. Take the time to check out the various kennels online, getting several references from clients and actually visit the kennels before making a decision.

The best kennels are not necessarily the busiest ones. A busy kennel is a pretty good sign. It indicates a lot of repeat business and satisfied customers are signs of the best kennels. The best kennels will likely cost more than the less than perfect kennels, but you also might not need all the services the expensive kennel has to offer. It is as important to know what your needs are as it is to know what your budget can afford for the boarding.

Charges are normally on a flat rate basis either by day or by the week. If you will be traveling during the holidays you more than likely will have to make reservations and pre-pay for the stay several weeks or more often months ahead of time. Don't leave things like that until the last minute or you will not have a place for your pet to stay. Ask friends, family, co-workers as well as from your groomer, vet and trainer for recommendations. Someone of might have a friend or family member who either works at or is in the kennel business, make sure to ask for references from former customers. Make sure the kennel fills all your needs and is what you are looking for. In other words, do your research.

Once you know your budget, have a list together of your needs and wants, and have the names of a few kennels, start calling to schedule appointments to stop by for a tour. Professionally operated facilities will have real people to answer the phone during normal business hours and not depend on an answering machine or voicemail service. If you do happen to get a machine, your call should be returned promptly; otherwise it suggests poor supervision or lack of staff.

Once you arrive for the tour, observe the outside of the building. It should be neat, well kept, clean and organized. The staff should be available to answer any questions you have. Check out the conditions and sizes of the individual kennel spaces. If your dog will need an outdoor run or exercise yard check those out as well. Each kennel must be self contained regarding water bowls, food dishes and sleeping areas; make sure the indoor areas are well ventilated and well lit. These areas should also be clean and pleasant without dirt or "doggy" smell.

Speak with the staff regarding emergency vet care and discuss the handling of problems with the dogs. Also discuss what kibble the kennel feeds and whether you are permitted to provide your own and, if so, how and where it will be stored. If there is a medical concern with your dog you will also need to know how much experience the staff has with that condition and their general knowledge regarding administering medication if that is needed.

Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies, your top spot to buy tiny dog clothes online.

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