Choosing a place to leave your pet during your move can be an intimidating experience for anyone, especially if you have never previously boarded your dog or cat. Will my pet be well-cared for and happy? Will they receive the proper medications? Will my pet be safe? These questions, and many more, should be asked prior to leaving your pet anywhere for the first time. Here are some important tips to ensure your best friend receives the highest level of care and attention.

First, check out all the resources available to you. The more information you gather, the better the decision will be for your pet. Log on to the ABKA (American Boarding Kennel Association) website at www.abka.com. They not only offer great pet information, but will also help you locate a reputable pet resort in your area. Your veterinarian, local Humane Society, and asking neighborhood friends and co-workers where they take their pets are also excellent sources. Go one step further and phone your community Better Business Bureau. Asking about the reputation of a specific pet resort is wise, as well as asking if any complaints have been logged against them and if those complaints were resolved. Now that you have a list

of trustworthy pet resorts in your area, it’s time to visit a few and investigate so your pet has the ultimate, happy and safe experience.

Telephone the resort of your choice and ask to arrange a tour. The facility should suggest you tour anytime during their normal operating hours instead of booking a tour appointment. A good resort is always prepared and “tour ready” for visitors. Once you arrive at the resort, notice the general appearance of the building and surrounding area. Ask yourself the following questions: Is the building clean and well-kept; is there proper and secure outdoor fencing and gating; and is the area outside free of pet waste and odor? Remember, first impressions are lasting impressions. Once inside the resort, observe the staff and daily business procedures. Working at a pet care facility can be a demanding job, but personnel should remain professional and neat. Is the staff friendly and courteous; were you greeted in a respectful manner; and is the lobby area clean, well-maintained and odor-free? Take notice of your surroundings and explore the resort further. Also ask if the resort offers a free, overnight stay for pets who have never boarded there before. This can be a huge stress reliever for not only your pet, but you as well.

Many pet resorts offer various types of accommodations to choose from, so ask to see all of the options available. Rooms will vary in size, so take into consideration the size of your pet in accordance with the size of the room. Are beds and blankets included, or will you have to provide those items? Are you allowed to bring your pet’s favorite items or toys from home? Other items to note: temperature control, protection from the elements, ventilation and lighting. Observe the other pets currently boarding in the resort as you are touring. They should appear happy and comfortable, not stressed or anxious. A very critical question to ask on your tour is if the boarding area has 24-hour care and supervision. Not all resorts require on-duty staff 24-hours a day, and this can make a huge difference in an emergency situation with your pet. The answer to this question should help determine the credibility of that particular facility. This is also a great time to ask about any formal training required for the resorts’ boarding staff, such as pet first-aid or other pet-care classes.

Another important place to tour at a pet resort is the outdoor play area. Notice if it is clean and spacious with sufficient fencing, both in height and gating. What material comprises the play yard ground; real or artificial grass, gravel, concrete or asphalt? This may make a difference for your pet during their stay. Ask if dogs are separated into groups of the same size and temperament, which is important for the safety of your pet, as well as if a staff member is always present with the dogs in the play area. You do not want your Shih Tzu playing unsupervised with a Rottweiler! Also ask if play time is included in the boarding price, or if it is extra. Each resort operates differently and it’s important to understand your pet’s options. And what other activities and extra services are available for purchase? Treats and play time sessions can usually be added during the check-in process to make your pet’s stay more enjoyable.

Bon appétit! The kitchen is where all meals and treats are prepared, in addition to where pet medication may be stored. Ask to see this area, even if it is not on a scheduled tour. While in the kitchen, check that all foods and medications are labeled and organized individually. This will ensure your pet will receive the correct food and prescription during their stay. Ask how often your pet will be fed. Most resorts can accommodate any feeding schedule if they are informed. It’s important to keep your pet on the same feeding schedule as home, which will help your pet better adjust to the boarding process.
Now you can make an educated decision on what a pet resort includes and leave your pet with trust and confidence. Use these tips and suggestions as a guide when selecting a high-quality, boarding resort. For questions or further information on boarding your pet in St. Louis, contact our Ask the Expert section at www.kennelwood.com.