What to look for in a boarding facility

You are going on a vacation or perhaps a business trip, you need someone to care for your companion while you are away. How do you choose a boarding facility? With so many kennels out there what should you look for? We at Currey's are here to help you figure out what is important to look for when boarding your dog.

Indoor/Outdoor access kennels

Some Businesses do not take your dog outside or even have windows in their kennels. This can make boarding stressful for a dog when they are unable to go outside or even know if it is day or night. Having indoor/outdoor access kennels gives your dog the option to come in or go outside as it pleases, preventing boredom and stress while promoting mental health and well being.

Large outdoor play areas

The majority of kennels take dogs from one kennel to another, this is the extent of exercise your dog will get during his stay. Some kennels may have an indoor play room for your dog to exercise in, while other kennels will take your dog for short bathroom breaks, if you pay extra for them.The ideal situation for your dog is to be able to have frequent breaks, three to five times a day, for 30 minutes at a time, in a large outdoor play yard. This gives your dog a chance to run and play out in the sunshine, while getting some fresh air. Getting a chance to go outside frequently and play promotes mental and physical health and reduces stress during your dogs stay.

Group or individual play sessions

Be sure to check if your dog will get a chance to socialize with other dogs, also inquire about the staff that will be monitoring the play sessions. Of the few facilities that offer group play sessions, even fewer have staff appropriately trained to properly monitor play sessions and ensure the safety of the dogs. Having group or individual play sessions, three to five times day, helps socialize your dog, burn energy, and promote mental and physical health. Getting a chance to go outside and play with other dogs makes a boarding stay a much more enjoyable, positive experience. Having fewer staff members with extensive behavior training ensures you will know exactly who is caring for your companion at all times. You should feel confident that they have the knowledge and expertise to properly care for your four-legged friend.

Facility tours

Be wary of a company that is unwilling or hesitant to show you every area your dog will be in prior to your pet's stay. It is important to have seen every area of the facility where your pet will be staying, and even more important for your dog to have seen the facility as well. Letting your dog see the facility and spend a few minutes in a kennel will help him to be more comfortable when it is time for him to stay overnight. Having seen the whole facility will allow you to feel more confident that your pet will be appropriately cared for while you are away.

Photos of your pet

Being able to 'see' your dog daily makes the separation much easier for you. You can see that your dog is comfortable and enjoying his "vacation". With websites like Facebook becoming more and more popular, it is enjoyable to log on and view photos of your pet playing daily.

Food and treats

Is food provided with your boarding cost? If so is the food a high quality? Does the facility have information on the food product for you to read prior to your pets stay? Does the facility provide daily treats for your dog? Having the option of high quality food and treats offered at no extra charge is convenient for you, and healthy for your companion. It is one less thing for you to worry about packing with all of the other concerns you have while preparing for your trip.

Hours of operation

You arrive home from your trip at 6:00 pm on Saturday evening, your kennel closed at 5pm and isn't open on Sunday. Even though you miss your furry friend you are forced to wait until the kennel opens on Monday morning to pick her up. Not only does your companion have to wait longer than necessary to go home and see you, you have to pay unnecessary charges for the weekend. Having a facility that is open 7 days a week and willing to work around your busy schedule means you can pick up or drop off your dog when it is convenient for you.

Cost and quality of care

Finally, what does a facility charge for its services? Do they charge extra for breaks, treats, or if your companion needs medication? Is your pet treated and cared for according to the size of your wallet? Most facilities will only walk your dog, or give him his medications if you pay extra. We believe a facility should charges a flat rate per day that includes play sessions, food, treats and any medications or special care your pet may need. Your companion should be treated as an individual, he should be well cared for and respected for who he is, not by how much you can afford.

Please call and speak with us at (734) 532-2013, if you have any questions or concerns with boarding your dog, we will help you feel confident in choosing a boarding facility for your companion.