Ready for your summer vacation?
While we prefer to bring our furry friends with us, we sometimes have to leave them in the care of someone else. Finding a trustworthy, caring, and clean boarding facility can be daunting, but knowing what to look for can mean all the difference.
At Petroglyph Animal Hospital, our vet clinic near Rio Rancho knows the last thing you need to worry about while on vacation is how your dog is being cared for. That’s why we want to offer some guidance on finding the right choice for your dog and preparing for their boarding experience.
Ways To Choose the Best Dog Boarding Kennel
Before engaging in an endless Google search for boarding kennels, start your search with the people you know:
● Groomers
● Friends
● Neighbors
Finding people with positive first-hand experiences will point you in the right direction. When in doubt, you can always call our vet clinic near Rio Rancho and ask for a recommendation. We’ll be more than happy to discuss some of the kennels we trust.
Do Your Research
Once you have some kennels in mind, begin your research online, looking for certifications, licenses, and reviews.
After you’ve narrowed down your choices, begin scheduling touring appointments with these facilities so you can meet their staff and examine their kennel conditions. While you’re there, be sure to have a list of questions to ask to better understand their experience and how they care for dogs under their supervision.
Questions To Ask Kennel Staff
● How long have they cared for dogs?
● What are the immunization requirements?
● How many dogs do they care for at one time?
● How many caretakers are there each day?
● What kind of food do they feed them?
● Do they allow you to bring your pet’s special diet?
● Is there staff on the grounds 24 hours a day?
● Are the staff certified in pet first aid?
● What are the protocols when a dog has a health issue or emergency?
● How often do the dogs exercise and are taken out to eliminate?
● Do they have emergency evacuation procedures if dogs must be removed from the facility?
If the facility offers dog play groups, ask how many dogs are in the group at one time and the ratio of dogs to humans in those groups. Also, inquire whether they separate groups by the dog’s size.
You also want to ensure the staff has canine behavior training, such as reading a dog’s body language and using positive reinforcement techniques.
Finally, ask about what kind of aversion techniques the staff uses to control dogs. Some protocols involve collar corrections, shaking cans to scare or startle, spray bottles, hoses, or alpha roll methods.
Points To Observe
The second piece of your on-site research is observation. Look at the cleanliness of the sleeping areas and observe for fresh drinking water, temperature control, and ventilation. Watch how the staff interacts with dogs currently staying there, and make sure the exercise areas are clean and secured.
Boarding Prices and Fees
You’ll want to make sure that you clearly understand what their rates cover. For example, you’ll want to know if their rates include the following:
● Walks
● Baths
● Individual playtimes
● Medication dispensing
● Special diet feedings
Also, find out when their check-in and check-out times are, ask about their cancellation policies, and when payment is due.
Prepare for Your Dog’s Boarding Stay
If your dog has never been boarded before, consider having them stay for an overnight or daycare visit first. That way, you’ll see how they handle the experience while introducing them to the new environment.
Ensure your dog is completely updated on all vaccinations required by the facility. If your dog needs an exam and updated vaccinations, call our vet clinic near Rio Rancho. We’ll make sure they’re healthy and vaccinated for their stay!
Also, make sure the kennel receives the following updated information:
● Vaccination and health records
● Your veterinarian’s contact information
● Your contact information
● An emergency person’s contact information
On the day you drop off your dog, make sure you bring the following:
● Your dog’s documentation
● Your dog’s bed and a favorite toy, if allowed
● Your dog’s medications, if allowed
● Your dog’s specialized or prescribed foods, if allowed
Through thorough research and preparation, you’ll be able to relax on your vacation while your furry loved one is taken care of.
Need More Advice? Contact Our Vet Clinic Near Rio Rancho Today!
At Petroglyph Animal Hospital, our team of highly knowledgeable and compassionate medical professionals will ensure your dog is ready for boarding. When needing references or personal boarding experiences, just ask. We’ll be more than happy to point you in the right direction.
Contact our vet clinic near Rio Rancho today to schedule your dog’s appointment! The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.