Do you want the best pet care facility for
your pampered pooch or finicky feline? Choosing a reputable safe environment
means doing your homework way ahead of your travel plans or event. And the best
place to start is with a list of your needs, deal breakers and budget then
taking the time to visit various locations to see if they fit your requirements
and expectations.
Preparation
Word
of Mouth
Recommendations are always a great place to
start - ask your friends, vet, neighbors, local rescue groups, shelters or your
dog park buddy. Keep in mind that everyone has a different standard, need and
budget so it’s best to visit the referred facilities in advance to make sure it
meets your level of expectation.
Also if you are a cat parent, you may want
to consider a cat only facility.
First Impression and the Environment
How do you feel when you walk in to the
facility?
What is your first impression? Is it clean?
Is it warm and inviting?
Do the dogs look happy or anxious?
Do they offer web cams? It’s a nice way of
checking in when you have some time.
Is it climate-controlled?
Daily Dog Care
Are dogs in their individual kennels or do
they share?
How is the ventilation, heating and
cooling?
What are the exercise options - are the
dogs let out to run around? Is there space on the property for this or are they
taken for daily walks outside of the facility?
What is the daily routine? What kind of
activities- social group play, toys,
play equipment are provided?
Do they offer grooming services?
Doggie Comfort
How big is the sleeping area?
How long do they stay in enclosed area?
Do you need to bring a crate pillow to
place in the kennel for added comfort?
Do they offer special care for dogs with
arthritis or disabilities? For instance, dogbeds that provide additional comfort or are they on the floor and can you
bring your own if you need too?
Daily Cat Care
If in same facility as dogs, are they kept
in separate areas?
How often is the litter changed?
What’s the daily routine - activities?
Health
Are pets required to have vaccinations? How
do they manage disease control?
Emergency
Procedures
Is there a vet on the premises? If not, is
there one on call? If there is an emergency will they call your vet in case of
emergency?
Food
How often are they fed?
What food do they provide? Do they provide natural or organic food and treat
alternatives? Will they allow you to bring your own brand of food or treats?
Staff
What training does the staff have in general
and with difficult or sick dogs?
Fees
What are the daily and weekly rates?
What are the charges for late or early pick
up?
Are there additional charges for emergency
care in addition to vet?
Can they provide any references?
General
Are dogs required to be spayed and
neutered?
These basic list of questions should get
you on the way to finding the best home away from home for your furry family pet
when you have to travel or entertain.
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