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Pet boarding is the practice of leaving pets in the care of a professional facility while their owners are away. Boarding facilities vary in size, amenities, and quality of care. When choosing a boarding facility, it is important to consider factors such as cleanliness, staff experience, exercise and socialization opportunities, and veterinary care availability. It is also recommended to visit the facility before making a reservation and to provide the staff with detailed information about your pet’s routine and medical needs. Proper preparation and communication can ensure a positive boarding experience for both pets and their owners.
Pets
Before you drop your pooch off at the kennel for your next vacation, there are a few things you need to know. Whether your pet is a seasoned traveler or a homebody, boarding can be a stressful experience for both pets and owners. However, with a bit of preparation, you can make the transition as smooth as possible and ensure your pet’s comfort while you’re away. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Different Types of Pet Boarding Facilities
When choosing a boarding facility, it’s important to know your options. While traditional kennels still exist, many have upgraded to offer more comfortable accommodations for pets. Some facilities offer large rooms where pets can socialize and interact with each other, while others provide individual crates or kennels for added security. It’s important to choose a facility that works for both you and your pet and has experienced staff who can handle animals with varying personalities.
Whether your pet is a seasoned traveler or a homebody, boarding can be a stressful experience for both pets and owners. However, with a bit of preparation, you can make the transition as smooth as possible and ensure your pet’s comfort while you’re away. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
While some pets settle into the boarding routine readily and seem to enjoy the change of scene, others may refuse to eat and be generally miserable for the entire stay. The best way to ease your pet’s stress is to find a situation that both you and your pet are comfortable with. This may involve preparing your pet for its time away from home by ensuring it understands basic commands or by exposing it to other animals and people. Remember that millions of pets spend time at boarding facilities each year, so your pet is not alone. With careful research and preparation, you can select a boarding facility that works for you both.
If you are considering leaving your pet at a communal boarding facility, make sure to visit the facility beforehand to observe the animals and look for signs of stress, such as shaking, scratching, or avoiding eye contact. Leaving your pet with your veterinarian is another option, especially if your pet has a health condition or is elderly. Although some vet offices may not have the most up-to-date facilities, your pet will be in good hands and can benefit from being under close supervision. Alternatively, some pet owners prefer to hire a pet sitter who can come to their home and care for their pet while they are away. Ultimately, the decision of boarding versus pet sitting depends on what works best for you and your pet. When it comes to adjusting to boarding, each pet is different and may react differently. Some dogs may be content at a boarding facility, while others may lose their appetite and long for home. Similarly, cats generally dislike change and travel, so they may not enjoy being at a boarding facility. Before leaving your pet at a boarding facility, consider the amount of exercise your pet gets on an average day and compare it to the amount the facility will provide. If your pet will be more sedentary at the facility, ask about paying for additional exercise opportunities.
If you plan on boarding your pet, there are a few things you should consider. Firstly, make sure to only feed your pet pet treats and not table scraps. It’s also a good idea to send a package of their favorite treats with them to the boarding facility. If your pet has a favorite toy or bed, it’s best to send it along, as long as the facility separates the animals. If the animals are kept together in an open area, it may cause problems as everything becomes community property.
If your pet experiences anxiety when alone, it can be hard to tell if it’s normal separation anxiety or something more serious. Signs of extreme anxiety in dogs include ignoring commands, lethargy, hyperactivity, biting, or growling. For cats, it includes refusing to eat, pacing, constant meowing, or hiding. Exercise is a great way to help with anxiety, so consider requesting extra walks for your pet while they’re boarded. You may also discuss prescription anti-anxiety medication with your veterinarian as a last resort.
When boarding your pet, it’s important to consider health concerns. Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations, heartworm preventative, and flea and tick control. If your pet is due for vaccinations, schedule them several weeks before your trip to allow time for immunity to build. Both dogs and cats should be immunized against several diseases. It’s also important to ensure that the other pets at the facility are immunized, as immunizations are not 100% effective.
Kennel cough, also known as Bordetella, is a contagious infection of the upper respiratory tract that affects pets that are boarded. Symptoms can range from a dry cough and a runny nose to lethargy, fever, and even pneumonia. Young and elderly dogs or those with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable and can even die from the disease. Signs usually appear within two to 14 days after exposure and can last for up to 10 days. The disease spreads easily since the dog can spread the bacteria and infect others for six to 14 weeks, even after symptoms are gone. Mild cases of kennel cough can be treated with bronchodilators or cough suppressants, while severe cases require antibiotics.
When looking for the right boarding facility, it’s essential to ask the right questions and visit the facility in person. Narrow down your options by asking about the facility’s membership with the American Boarding Kennel Association and the care they provide for sick or stressed animals. If your pet needs special food or medication, ask if they can accommodate your needs. Also, understand their billing process and exercise routine. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, visit each facility and look for a clean, well-lit environment with adequate ventilation, comfortable temperatures, and caring staff. Lastly, check with your state’s Better Business Bureau for any complaints before making a reservation with confidence.
What is the Cost of Pet Boarding?
After you have found the perfect kennel for your pet, you might wonder how much you should pay for it. Prices differ greatly across the country, so it is important to compare costs. You should also make sure that you understand what is included in the price. Some expensive kennels may provide two walks per day and free time for your pet to run in a large yard, while another kennel may charge extra for these services. Therefore, it is essential to compare similar services when choosing a kennel.
Lots More Information
More HowStuffWorks Articles
- How Pet Microchipping Works
- 6 Pets that Traveled Long Distances to Get Home
- Top 5 Risks When Driving with a Pet
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- Do pets suffer jet lag?
More Great Links
- Signs of Stress in Cats
- Signs of Stress in Your Dog
Sources
- American Boarding Kennels Association. http://www.abka.com
- Eldredge, Debra M. et al. “Dog Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook.” 2007.
- The Humane Society of the United States. http://www.hsus.org/
- Overall, Karen L. “Treating Anxiety is Different than Managing Problem.” DVM Newsmagazine. Jan. 1, 2003. (Jan. 8, 2008) http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/dvm/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=43492
FAQ
1. What is pet boarding?
Pet boarding is a service provided by pet care facilities where pet owners can leave their pets for a period of time when they are unable to care for them. These facilities offer a safe and comfortable environment for pets to stay in while their owners are away.
2. What types of pets can be boarded?
Most pet boarding facilities accept dogs and cats, but some may also accept small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds. It’s important to check with the facility beforehand to see if they can accommodate your pet.
3. How long can my pet stay at a boarding facility?
The length of time your pet can stay at a boarding facility varies depending on the facility and your specific needs. Some facilities offer overnight stays, while others may allow pets to stay for weeks or even months at a time.
4. What should I look for in a pet boarding facility?
You should look for a facility that is clean, well-maintained, and staffed by experienced professionals who are knowledgeable about pet care. You should also look for a facility that offers plenty of opportunities for exercise and socialization.
5. How do I prepare my pet for boarding?
You should make sure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations and medications before boarding. You should also pack enough food, treats, and toys for your pet to enjoy while they are away from home.
6. Can I visit my pet while they are boarding?
Most pet boarding facilities allow owners to visit their pets during their stay. However, it’s important to check with the facility beforehand to see what their policies are regarding visitation.
7. Will my pet be safe at a boarding facility?
Yes, pet boarding facilities are designed to provide a safe and secure environment for pets. Staff members are trained to recognize and respond to any signs of distress or illness in pets.
8. How much does pet boarding cost?
The cost of pet boarding varies depending on the facility and the length of your pet’s stay. It’s important to check with the facility beforehand to see what their rates are and what services are included in the price.
9. Can I bring my pet’s bedding and toys with them to the boarding facility?
Most pet boarding facilities allow owners to bring their pet’s bedding and toys with them. This can help your pet feel more comfortable and at home while they are away.
10. What should I do if my pet gets sick while boarding?
If your pet gets sick while boarding, the staff at the facility will contact you and seek veterinary care for your pet. It’s important to provide the facility with your contact information and the contact information for your pet’s veterinarian before you leave your pet in their care.
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