Whether you decide to leave your pet with us or another facility, there are a few things you should now before you board.
First, start boarding your pet at an early age. We accept pets older than six months of age if they have received all necessary vaccinations. If you wait until they are 5-6 years of age and up, they usually have a more difficult time adjusting than the younger dog that may still have a memory of "litter socialization". If a dog is 7 years or older, and boarding for the first time, we suggest trying it out for an overnight stay, and in that way we can see whether he/she will adjust to a longer term. Dogs older than 12 years of age, and never boarded, should consider a home sitting service, they just do not adjust well to boarding. However, you may wish to have them visit for a day and see how they adjust.
Second, if you decide that boarding is for you, make a personal visit to all the kennels. Only you can decide which kennel is for you. Looking at the yellow pages gives a small picture of what you might expect, but the best idea is to make a trip to the kennel for a visit. A physical tour will introduce the kennel's staff and give you an opportunity to see just how they will be taking care of your pet. You will also be able to see how clean the facility is and what extra services are available. Choose a kennel that allows YOU to structure your pet's routine. Remember, however, that kennels MUST have a structured daily routine to accomplish their services. Work with the kennel to blend your requests into their capabilities. Most of all do not be fooled by "new" facilities, the age of the facility does not always indicate how experienced the staff and management are.
Third, when checking in your pet in (and on the trip to the kennel), try not to make your pet feel like he's being left behind, accompanied with a lot of tears, and guilt. Your dog can sense your feelings and will think there is something wrong if you are sad and treat he/she like they are going to jail. If you act joyful and like the pet is going to "camp" he/she will not become frightened and fearful, not think you are abandoning him, and will have a less difficult adjustment period for the first day or two. The proper thing to do is to reassure your pet that everything is all right, with a pat on the head, and tell him/her that you will be back soon. When you are preparing for your trip (packing your bags & the car) tell your pet that he is "ready to go to camp". Make the experience an upbeat and positive experience.
Lastly, give the Kennel Operator as much information as possible about your pet, along with past health problems and any medication that he/she might be on. Make sure that you have a telephone number where you will be able to be contacted during your trip. Do not give a neighbor's or friend's number. If your pet suffers a medical problem needing veterinary treatment the veterinarian wants to be able to speak directly with you, and only you, about the situation.
We hope that you will choose The Dogg House for all of you pet's boarding needs. But, please keep these things in mind wherever you decide to leave you pet. It will make their experience a more pleasant one, and will give you the piece of mind that your pet is being well cared for while you are on vacation.
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