Sorting out your pet boarding options
October 17th, 2009 | By: Denise Stringfellow
In the Spring issue, we discussed how to spend quality time with your dog when you are home more than usual. In this issue, we’ll look at the reverse – when you need longer-term care for your dog while you’re away from home.
Leaving one’s family pet in the care of others can be worrisome and stressful, especially if the dog is frantic or frightened in unfamiliar environments. Fortunately, the dog care industry now offers a variety of care solutions. To ensure finding the right place for your dog, begin your search early and consider your dog’s age, temperament and behavior when making your choice.
For long-term pet care, boarding kennels often come to mind first. Established kennels are usually very safe and provide excellent care. A good boarding kennel will have solid fencing, an impeccable cleaning schedule, separate runs and ample space and opportunities for exercise. Boarding kennels are a good solution for adult dogs that are social, easy going, and not bothered by a change in environment. Some kennels specialize in caring for difficult dogs, a good option if your pet has aggressive tendencies.
Young puppies, however, do not do well in large boarding kennels. A responsible neighbor or family member is a better choice. If you purchased a purebred puppy, the breeder may offer boarding, which can be a great option. If none of these options is possible, look into a smaller, home-based boarding operation that takes in only a few dogs at a time. Generally, these caregivers spend more individual time with each pet, continue housetraining, and allow more free time in the house than larger, institution-style boarding kennels.
Shy, sensitive, or geriatric pets have the most difficult time adjusting to an owner’s absence. In these cases, sometimes it’s best to leave the pet home and purchase the services of a pet sitter. Usually licensed and bonded, pet sitters come to your home daily and engage in agreed upon activities such as feeding, walking, massaging, etc. Pet sitter services are perfect for mature pets that are happiest at home and don’t engage in destructive or anxious behavior.
Sometimes a combination of two caregivers is a great solution. For instance, if your pet goes to a dog daycare regularly, enlist a friend to transport the pet to and from the daycare and watch the pet, in his home or yours, overnight. A perfect solution for someone who wants to help you out, but works during the day.
Whatever pet care solution you choose, look for caregivers with a good reputation, references, and proper facilities—always take a tour before you make your decision. Remember, holidays fill up fast, so book your reservation well ahead of your departure date. While leaving your dog is never fun, one thing’s for sure: your pet will always be happy to see you when you come home!
