Choosing Dog Kennels: What Should You Ask?
It's almost vacation time, and you're looking for dog kennels. Even though you'd love to bring your pets with you, this trip is for humans only. What do you need to know about dog boarding and the kennel that you're considering? Check out some of the top questions to ask when choosing a place for your dog to stay while you're away:
What Types of Records Are Required?
It's more than likely that you'll need to provide current vaccination records before your dog can stay in any kennel. The core vaccines that most dogs get are canine parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis, and rabies. Depending on the kennel's policies, you may need to provide proof of additional vaccinations such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira. It's absolutely essential that your dog has their vaccinations before heading off to any kennel. Why? The close quarters are the perfect breeding ground for disease, even in the cleanest facility. Vaccinations will help to keep your dog healthy.
Where Do the Dogs Stay?
Before choosing a kennel it's important to tour the facility and see where the dogs stay. Do they stay in small spaces or large ones? Does the kennel have bigger 'rooms' available for a large breed dog? If the kennel only uses cages for all dogs (regardless of their size), skip this facility. Your dog needs room to stretch their legs.
How Much Playtime Is Available?
You make sure that your pup gets plenty of playtime at home. If they're used to several walks a day and time to run around the yard, you'll want to find a facility that offers a similar amount of time for your dog to engage in physical activity.
Are the Dogs Allowed to Play Together?
Some dogs adore the company of other animals. They thrive on dog-to-dog interactions and enjoy an afternoon at the off-leash dog park. But, others can get aggressive. If your dog doesn't seem to get along with other pets (whether they're aggressive, shy, or anxious), you'll want to ask if your dog can have playtime alone. If your dog is all about hanging with their canine companions, a group play-time is probably more than okay.
What Do the Dogs Eat?
It's common for dogs to have sensitive stomachs. A sudden food change can send your dog's digestive system into a backspin. Make sure that you can bring your own food so that they get the brand and formula they're used to.
Along with these questions, ask about any add-on activities or amenities (such as grooming) that the dog kennel offers. These may make the difference between a 'just alright' experience and one that's extra-special.
Contact a company like Houston Dog Ranch for more information and assistance.