The family dog is very much an integral part of the family, and when you jet off to a paradise island for a few weeks every year, the last thing you want is to worry about your pet. Finding a good boarding kennels can seem like a daunting task, as they all profess to offer a second to none service, and with that in mind, here are a few things to look for when hunting for a suitable kennels to have your dog while you are abroad.
- Licensed Facility – It is essential that the boarding kennels are licensed by the state, so when looking at dog boarding in Sydney, or anywhere else for that matter, make sure they are licensed to care for dogs. Ideally, the kennels would have been in business for at least a few years, and if they have won any awards, so much the better.
- Comprehensive Facilities – You obviously want your dog to have as much fun on holiday as you will, and with a boarding facility that has a big enclosed exercise field, your pet can stretch his legs and get that much-needed daily exercise. If you can find a kennels that has a doggie pool, even better, as this is a sure sign that the guests are pampered. Swimming is great exercise for dogs and a wonderful way to cool down in the summer. Grooming facilities should also be available, which your dog will love.
- Licensed Vet on the Premises – It is critical that there is always a qualified vet on-site, as any dog could suddenly fall ill, so do ask the owners about a resident vet, as it is important. Any good dog boarding kennels would insist that your dog is up to date with his vaccinations and would want to see evidence of this, as they cannot afford to take any chances with the dogs in their care.
- Secure Facility – Access should be strictly controlled, plus you should expect the entire facility to be covered by video surveillance, so your dog can be viewed at any time. Security is very important, as your pet might be feeling distressed at being in a strange environment, and if there’s a chance of escaping, he may well do just that!
Make an Appointment to Visit
Once you have found the website of what you think might be the ideal kennels, book an appointment to visit the facility. There’s no need to take your dog, as this is an exploratory exercise to get a feel of the place and the people who work there. It’s never a good idea to turn up unannounced, as they may be very busy and don’t have the time or the resources to show you around. Once at the kennels, take note of cleanliness and the size of the cages, which should be shaded of course, and spend some time talking to the staff, and if they are true dog lovers, this will come to the surface.
Once you are sure about the boarding facility, you can prepare for your holiday, safe in the knowledge that you aren’t the only one who is taking a holiday.