Dog - Boarding Kennels

Many owners are concerned when they have to board their dog, particularly for the first time. Today there are several alternatives:

1. Pet sitting agencies are available that will arrange for someone to live in during your absence. This person will look after your pet(s) and sometimes your garden. Many such agencies advertise on the internet and their terms and conditions seem to vary widely. There are, however, many reputable agencies that have been in business for some time, e.g. Animal Aunts and Homesitters.
2. Over the last few years there has been a growth in agencies offering to find a local person who will take your pet into their own home. Again terms and conditions vary considerably and in the first instance time spent researching availability pays dividends. It is worthwhile always asking regarding insurance cover, etc. Some local authorities have recently started to take note of people offering pet sitting services from their own home and you will find that some of them are licensed and insured.
3. Traditional boarding kennels. This is probably the safest option since well planned kennels are safe and secure. Under the 1963 Boarding of Dogs Act all commercial kennels have to be licensed by the Local Authority and therefore meet certain standards.
4. Another alternative is the 'unofficial' looking after of your dog, either a friend or relative comes to stay in your home while you are away or alternatively your pet(s) is taken to their home. Once the animals get to know this person the risks are usually minimal but it is unlikely that they will be covered by insurance should anything untoward happen.

Is my dog likely to be happy in kennels?

Many dogs spend very happy holidays in kennels and look forward to going. Plan the visit well ahead just as you do with your own holiday and make sure that you visit the kennels beforehand to satisfy yourself that the accommodation is up to your expectations.

How will I know if my dog will settle in kennels?

Despite the fears of owners, most dogs settle into kennel life very quickly. However it is always worthwhile boarding your pet for a weekend or a few days to see how the dog settles. When you collect, check general condition, the standard of grooming etc. which gives an indication of the overall standard of care received. Also ask the kennel staff about his behaviour and appetite. If a nervous dog, have there been any problems handling him etc. etc. The replies (or lack of them!) will quickly help you to form a view.

How will I find suitable boarding kennels or pet sitting services?

Kennels advertise in Yellow Pages and your local directories. Local Authorities should be able to help with a list of licensed kennels in your area. It is worth asking if there are any licensed pet sitters. Some Local Authorities consider these to be commercial kennels since they are taking dogs in for financial gain. Standards do vary despite the mandatory licencing and it is worthwhile obtaining recommendations from friends or neighbours. We will provide you with the names or addresses of local contacts.

How will I locate kennels in an area unfamiliar to me?

The local authority and local directories (Yellow Pages) etc. are helpful. Telephone local veterinary surgeons, explain your problem and request their help. We can help with details of local practices. Do not be afraid to contact kennels and request details of fees etc and also discuss any special medical problems or dietary requirements.

Request an appointment to see the kennels prior to making a firm booking.

Are there any requirements necessary before kennelling?

Veterinary recommendations regarding vaccinations and boosters are changing but kennels at present have to observe local authority regulations regarding the control of infectious or contagious disease and this sometimes involves more regular boosting than is presently advised. Check this with the kennels. It is important that your vaccination certificate is up-to-date and readily available. Many kennels require kennel cough vaccine (Bordetella) to be up to date and may insist that this is administered a few days before entry since the vaccine only lasts approximately 6–8 months. Such requests are again an indication that the kennels are endeavouring to maintain their premises as disease free as possible.