Common Questions When Boarding Your Pet

Finding the right boarding place for your pet is important, perhaps as important as finding the right nanny for your children. You need peace of mind knowing that your pet is in capable and caring hands.

To make a good decision on a boarding place, you must do your homework. Part of doing your homework is asking questions. Here are some good questions to ask boarding places.

May I Take a Tour?

Never leave your pet anywhere without touring and checking out the facility. If they are not willing to take you on a tour, leave immediately. It is a bad sign that there are things they do not want you to see.

Even if they say they cannot take you for insurance reasons, do not believe it. The owner should be happy to show off their business. If you cannot see the place your pet will be staying, find another place.

What Vaccinations Do They Require?

Most boarding places require vaccinations, but it is not mandatory. So, you need to ask them. The minimum requirements of a kennel are:

• Rabies.
• Canine Distemper.
• Canine Parvovirus.
• Infectious Hepatitis.
• Feline Calicivirus.
• Feline Panleukopenia.
• Feline Herpesvirus.

Are the Staff Trained?

Make sure the staff have training and certification, especially if you are not using a veterinary place. Do not just assume that they do. If you do not find the information on their website, ask them.

How Many Staff Are On-site?

The ideal ratio is one staff member for every ten dogs. It ensures that every dog gets the attention and care it needs. If the staff are less than that, there may be a problem in case of an emergency.

Does the Facility Have an Emergency Plan?

An emergency could include an act of nature, fires, or your pet becoming sick. Check to see if the facility is prone to storms or floods. Also, make sure to ask if there is a member of staff or vet on call. Ask them to contact you before taking any drastic measures.

Do They Take Pets With Special Needs?

You must ask for this information. You will need it if you have an elderly pet or one that has special needs. Ask them for details of how they will take care of and accommodate your pet.

Will They Feed Your Pet Their Regular Food?

Veterinarians advise against changing a pet’s food. This is because it can upset their digestion. You need to make sure they can give your pet the food they normally eat.

How Often Do They Walk Dogs?

Dogs should go for a walk at least two times a day. Make sure to also ask how long the walks are. This is because some dogs take longer to defecate than others. If they release the dogs into a pen outside, get to know how big it is. Also, find out if a staff member stays with them or goes back for a certain period.

Lastly, find out how many times they take dogs out and for how long. Three times in 24 hours is okay, although five times is better.

For more information on boarding your pet, visit R Veterinary Group at our offices in Linn Creek, Columbia, and Waynesville, Missouri. You can call (573) 346-5733, (573) 443-7274, (573) 774-3337, or (573) 245-1027 to schedule an appointment today.