Nearly half of American households contain at least one dog. Of course, the joys of having a dog around are endless. These four-legged friends offer unconditional love, companionship and loyalty. However, dogs also require regular care, which can be difficult when you have to go out of town on business or on vacation. That’s where dog boarding can help.
What is dog boarding?
Dog boarding centers offer a safe, comfortable and cheerful place for your dog to stay while you have to be away from him. Such facilities offer spacious suites, complete with television, plush pet beds and even web cams. They also have ample space, both indoors and outdoors for your dog to socialize with other dogs and get exercise. A designated care giver is assigned to each pet, so you know that your dog is getting personal attention. In the event of an emergency, boarding facilities all have access to veterinary care.
Dog owner responsibilities when using dog boarding services
Dog boarding is convenient, affordable and provides a safe and fun place for your dog to spend the time that you have to be away from him. However, before you just drop him off, there are a few things you need to do:
- Make sure the dog is healthy and vaccinations are current. Before bringing your dog to the boarding facility, you need to make sure that he is current on all of his shots. Your dog will be exposed to other dogs at the boarding site. Having his vaccinations up to date helps protect your dog and the other dogs.
- Bring his medications. If your dog is taking any kind of medication, it’s important that you bring the prescription to the boarding facility with written instructions to let the staff know how and when to administer the medication.
- Bring any special food. If you dog only eats a particular kind of food or if you have him on a special diet, you’ll need to bring the food to the boarding center when you drop off your dog.
- Provide an emergency contact. The boarding center will need to know how to get a hold of you in case they have a question or if there’s a medical emergency. Just as you wouldn’t leave your dog with a friend without giving him your contact information, you won’t want to leave the dog with the boarding center without their knowing how to get a hold of you.
- Designate who can pick up the dog. Dog boarding facilities have security protocols just like children’s day care centers. If you won’t be able to pick up your dog, you’ll need to give the name and contact information of the person who will be picking him up, so the center will be able to release him. Such procedures are put into place to protect you and your dog.
Dog boarding can make your having to be away for a night or two much more enjoyable and less stressful for both you and your dog. Make sure to do your part before you drop him off so that the boarding facility has everything they need to care for your dog properly.
