When you need to leave your dog in a kennel, you want to make sure you have chosen the best option for you and your pet. To do that, you need to ask the right questions, clearly communicate your wants and your dog’s needs, and make sure you get the answers you want. Being upfront about any special needs your dog may have will help you find a kennel that is willing to individualize your pet’s stay. The following questions are a good base to start with; you may have a few questions of your own to add based on your individual needs.
1. What are your professional affiliations? An affiliation with the Pet Grooming Services Association (formerly ABKA) lets you know that a dog kennel holds a higher standard of professionalism and ethics. You can also check with agencies like the Better Business Bureau, which might have information on any complaints filed against a kennel.
2. Describe your emergency care procedures. In the event that your pet becomes ill or injured, at what point does the kennel staff decide to call a veterinarian? Which vet will they call when your dog needs help? Make sure kennel staff are aware of any special medical needs your dog has.
3. What are your immunization requirements? Find out what immunizations are required and what kind of proof you need to provide regarding immunizations. A reputable kennel will require current rabies vaccination, Bordetella bronchicepta (kennel cough), as well as annual booster shots. Be sure to allow enough time to take your dog to the vet for any shots or boosters he needs.
4. What exactly am I paying for? Some kennels charge a flat fee and some fees based on the weight of the dog. Sometimes there are additional fees for walking your dog, feeding your pet their own food, administering medications, and providing any additional care needed.
5. What types of special care will you provide? Will the kennel administer her pet’s medication? (Note: A licensed kennel will require medications to be in the kennel’s original container with the vet’s name, number, and instructions.) Will the kennel allow her to bring her own food for her dog to eat during her stay? Will your dog have a ‘come home’ bath before leaving the kennel?
6. What will the kennel staff do to help ease some of your dog’s anxiety? Are you allowed to pack your dog’s favorite toys, her own bed or blankets? What will the kennel staff do if your pet gets too anxious? Most dogs will experience some level of anxiety, you know your dog’s disposition and how important this issue will be to you. Some dog kennels may be more suitable for you than others if you have a particularly nervous dog.
7. What do you do for social activity and exercise? What kind of playtime will your pet have? How do the kennel staff decide which playgroup they will be placed in? Are dogs allowed individual play time? How often do they come out (double is the absolute minimum)? Make sure your dogs get plenty of downtime to nap too, relaxation is just as important as activity. Finding the right kennel for your dog is vital to making sure he gets the best possible care. The right one to choose is the one that will be able to meet the individual requirements of it based on your questions. Once you find a great kennel in Richmond, you will be able to leave your dog there and feel confident that he will be well taken care of.
