Boarding Your Dog

By Megan Blake

As with hotels for people, the choices are almost limitless and trying to narrow down options can lead to confusion. First question: Should your dog stay home or board away? If your dog can’t travel, a pet sitter in your home is usually the best scenario. Being separated from his human pack is stressful, and staying in familiar surroundings with his person’s smells, his own bed and regular routine minimizes that stress.

However, finding a qualified pet sitter who meets your needs may not be that simple. They should have references, experience with the types of pets you have, and should be willing to accommodate your dog’s schedule and medical needs. In addition to having rates that fit into your budget, he or she should be someone that you and your dog feel comfortable with. You should fully trust them with the care of your pet, home and possessions. To find your perfect pet sitter is to find a gem.

Even if you find this person, a boarding facility may still be the wisest choice. Constant monitoring, group playtime and spa treatments are among reasons to board. Puppies or dogs with certain medical conditions may warrant a vet stay. Vet facilities usually don’t offer the same amenities as more luxurious boarding facilities, and you might bypass the luxury prices for a basic cage or pen, but your dog will be in good hands trained for immediate attention. Many vets do offer dog walking, and some have group play facilities as well so be sure to ask.

If you are looking for more stimulation and interactions for your dog, cage-free boarding and boarding facilities that offer a wide variety of services may be your best choice. Ask your veterinarian, groomer, trainer and friends for referrals and browse the web and yellow pages.

General Manager Shoshana Weissman of The Kennel Club LAX located near Los Angeles International Airport says, “It is critical that dogs don’t feel like they have been abandoned, so we’ve designed activity packages to keep pets of all personalities involved and happier, and we believe healthier.” At The Kennel Club, LAX dogs get the royal treatment where guardians can choose from individually themed cottage suites, 24-hour socializing in the reception area, story time, cuddle time, and wellness programs including massage, magnet therapy and swimming.

Some boarding facilities offer cage-free slumber parties. In this situation, confirm that dogs are separated into groups according to size and temperament. It is a good idea to let your dog visit briefly before his stay to make sure he is comfortable.

Other resorts offer home-like environments nestled in the scenic outdoors with packages including grooming and training. At any boarding facility, be aware of how crowded they are. Notice not only how many dogs are together but also the dog to human ratio. For group activities, a 5-1 ratio of dogs to humans is ideal.

Before making a reservation, visit the facility and ask questions. Have they been inspected by local animal services and are they licensed as a boarding facility? What are their emergency policies and do they have a veterinarian on call? Is there someone trained in pet CPR always on-site? Will there always be someone there who can give medication? Will they personally be available to go over medication protocol and note your pet’s idiosyncrasies? What cleaning products or pesticides do they use and are the dogs kept away from chemicals and fumes? Can dogs have social time with people or other dogs? Do they have trained evaluators to determine if a dog is not ready to join in group play? Can you leave your own food, bedding and toys?

Ask to see exactly where your dog will be staying and playing. Ask about vaccine requirements. Can you pick up and drop off 24-7? Are the premises clean with a professional staff and do they seem willing to answer your questions? Most importantly, do the dogs seem happy and relaxed, and does the staff seem to have a genuine love for dogs?

In deciding whether to board, where to board, and which level of luxury is right for your pet, the final decision comes down to your and your dog’s instincts.

Megan Blake is a pet lifestyle specialist, columnist, author, and pet expert on Animal Attractions TV. She lives in Malibu, Calif., with her two dogs, two cats and two horses.www.MeganBlake.com