Dog boarding reviews

Why: Every dog has unique needs regarding socialization, medical care, and anxiety levels that dictate the type of facility required.

How:

• Document medical history, including allergies and current medications.
• Assess social temperament: Is your dog 'dog-neutral,' 'dog-social,' or 'reactive'?
• Note specific triggers like thunder, resource guarding, or separation anxiety.

DoneWhen: You have a written one-page profile of your dog's needs.

Why: Reputable facilities invest in staff education and carry liability insurance to protect your pet.

How:

• Look for certifications from the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC) or the International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA).
• Ask for proof of commercial general liability insurance and animal bailee coverage.
• Confirm the facility holds a valid local business license for animal boarding.

DoneWhen: You have confirmed the facility's credentials and insurance status.

Why: Safety standards for active play require one trained staff member for every 10-15 dogs to prevent fights and monitor health.

How:

• Ask specifically about the ratio during peak hours versus overnight.
• Ensure at least one staff member is present 24/7 if the facility advertises 'supervised' boarding.
• Verify that staff are trained in canine body language and pet first aid.

DoneWhen: The facility confirms a ratio of 1:15 or better.

Why: Proper airflow prevents the spread of respiratory diseases like Kennel Cough, and non-porous flooring is essential for sanitation.

How:

• Check for high-quality HVAC systems or specialized air purifiers.
• Ensure floors are made of epoxy, sealed concrete, or specialized rubber (not wood or carpet).
• Smell the air: It should smell clean or like mild disinfectant, not strongly of urine or heavy perfume.

DoneWhen: You have physically walked through the kennel and play areas.

Why: Escape prevention is a critical safety metric for any boarding environment.

How:

• Verify that all exits have a 'mantrap' or double-gate system (two doors must be passed to exit).
• Check that outdoor fences are at least 6-8 feet high and buried or reinforced at the base.
• Ensure gates use heavy-duty, dog-proof latches.

DoneWhen: You have visually confirmed that no dog can exit the facility through a single open door.

Why: In a medical crisis, every minute counts; the facility must have a clear plan.

How:

• Ask which 24-hour emergency vet they use if your primary vet is unavailable.
• Confirm they have a vehicle available for emergency transport at all times.
• Sign a medical release form that specifies your budget limit for emergency care.

DoneWhen: You have a copy of their emergency procedures and have provided your consent.

Why: Boarding environments increase exposure to pathogens; high-quality facilities require proof of protection.

How:

• Ensure Rabies and DHPP (Distemper/Parvo) are current.
• Administer the Bordetella (Kennel Cough) vaccine at least 7-10 days before boarding.
• Ask if the Canine Influenza (H3N8/H3N2) vaccine is recommended for your region.

DoneWhen: You have a digital or paper copy of the updated vaccination record.

Why: A short stay (4-8 hours) allows the dog to acclimate and the staff to assess the dog's behavior without the stress of an overnight stay.

How:

• Book a half-day session at least two weeks before your planned trip.
• Ask for a detailed 'report card' on how your dog interacted with staff and other dogs.
• Observe if your dog is overly exhausted or stressed upon pickup.

DoneWhen: Your dog has successfully completed one trial session without incident.

Why: Keeping the dog on their regular diet prevents digestive upset (colitis) caused by stress and food changes.

How:

• Use individual airtight bags for each meal.
• Label each bag with the dog's name and 'AM' or 'PM'.
• Provide medication in original bottles with clear, written dosage instructions.

DoneWhen: All food and meds are packed and labeled for the duration of the stay.

Why: To identify any injuries, parasites, or illnesses contracted during the stay immediately.

How:

• Frequency: Perform this after every boarding stay.
• Check the skin for hot spots, ticks, or nicks.
• Monitor stool consistency and appetite for 48 hours.
• Watch for 'kennel cough' symptoms (honking cough or lethargy).

DoneWhen: You have completed a full body scan and 48-hour observation period.

Why: Communal environments are high-risk areas for fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms.

How:

• Frequency: Monthly (ongoing).
• Use a broad-spectrum preventative (flea, tick, and heartworm).
• Ensure the application is done at least 3 days before boarding to allow it to dry/absorb.

DoneWhen: The monthly dose is administered and recorded in your pet's health log.