When you travel, you want to board your sweet pets at the best possible facility. But how do you know your pet will be comfortable, safe, and well cared for at a kennel? Here’s how to find a great pet boarding facility for your dog or cat.
What to look for in pet boarding
Pet boarding has come a long way since a dog or cat spends most of its time in a cage or small pen. Today, boarding can often be like sending your animal to a resort with top-quality food, spacious rooms, and areas for romping with new furry friends.
To find the best spot for pet boarding, get personal referrals and read online reviews of facilities near you. Contact a few, then make an in-person visit to determine the following:
Comfort
- Is the facility clean?
- How big will my pet’s individual and the common play area be?
- How often will my pet leave her space and spend time in the common play area?
- What is my pet’s bed like, and how often is it washed?
- How often will my dog be taken on a leashed outside walk or released into a fenced area?
- Is there a solid partition between each pet’s kennel?
- Is the kennel well-ventilated and kept comfortable in both warm and cool seasons?
- Can I tour the facilities?
- Can I bring my pet’s favorite toys?
Daily care at boarding facility
- What food, if any, does the boarding facility provide? Can I bring my pet’s food?
- How often are pets fed?
- Is fresh water continually monitored and replenished?
- Are the bowls in a spillproof mount?
- Will my pet get periodic treats?
Health and Safety
- Are all pets required to be current on vaccinations to stay at the facility? If so, what vaccinations are required?
- Are all pets examined upon admittance to the facility?
- Is a veterinarian on staff, or is one available if needed?
- Is emergency care available?
- Are pets allowed to play together?
- Are pets that don’t get along with others sequestered?
- Will there be staff on site all day, every day? If not, is the building monitored remotely by staff using a camera and microphone? Is remote monitoring available to pet owners?
Related – Planning Pet-Friendly Travel