Selecting
a Kennel
Stop by a kennel & visit with the owner(s). Get
acquainted with the people who will be caring for your dog. Ask
questions - take nothing for granted. “Are toys or bedding
welcome? How will Fido be exercised? What will you feed Fido?”
Talk about safety features. Discuss frankly any qualms you may have
about boarding. They will appreciate your frankness & interest.
The experienced personnel are trained to recognize
the warning signs of potential health problems & will contact
a veterinarian if they feel it is called for. Many times it is easier
for kennel personnel to detect problems than it is for the owner
of the dog, as the dog is exercised in a specific area which is
cleaned regularly.
However, it is not part of the kennel’s job
to diagnose or to prescribe. If Fido does require veterinary aid
while he is in the kennel, you should be aware that you, as Fido’s
owner, are financially responsible for such aid. Discuss, before
boarding, any medication or special care Fido might need.
Most kennels offer a certain amount of individual
care (playing with, talking to, petting the dog) but you must be
reasonable. Asking the kennel owner to check Fido at 2 a.m. to see
if he is uncovered is not reasonable.
During boarding, it is possible that dogs will step
in their stools or urine & become dirty. This can happen in
the cleanest of kennels! Also, some of the finest disinfectants
available for sanitizing are not always the most pleasant smelling
& the odor may cling to your dog’s coat. Grooming may
be indicated & you should advise the kennel owner if you want
Fido to have a bath on the day he goes home.
Make certain you understand the rate structure for
all services & hours of operation. The fee for boarding your
dog not only includes the care of your pet but the peace of mind
that goes with knowing that Fido is safe & with someone you
can trust.
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