Stop by a kennel and visit with the staff. Get acquainted with the people who will be caring for your pet. Ask questions; take nothing for granted. "Are toys or bedding welcome? How will your pet be exercised? What will your pet be fed?" Talk about safety features. (Discuss frankly any qualms you may have about boarding.) They will appreciate your frankness and interest.

The experienced personnel at an American Boarding Kennels Association are trained to recognize the warning signs of potential health problems and will contact a veterinarian if they feel it is needed.

But it is not part of the kennel's job to diagnose or to prescribe. If your animal does require veterinary aid while in the kennel, you should be aware that you, as the animal's owner, are financially responsible for such aid. Discuss before boarding, any medication or special care Rover might need. Most kennels offer a certain amount of individual care but you must be reasonable. (Asking the kennel owner to check your pet at 2 a.m. to see if he's uncovered is not reasonable).

One standard for measuring the kennel owner's interest in his/her profession is the membership in the American Boarding Kennels Association. You can be certain ABKA members are trying to keep current on the latest developments within the industry, and that they truly care. Their membership certificate will be proudly displayed.

Make certain you understand the rate structure for all services and hours of operation. The fee for boarding not only includes the care of your pet but for the peace of mind that goes with knowing that Rover is safe and with someone you can trust.

Let us suppose that you do choose to board your pet. Boarding is a shared responsibility. As a responsible pet owner there are a few things you must attend to before bringing your pet into board.

• Make certain all immunizations are current, including the parainfluenza vaccine for protection against tracheobronchitis.
• Your pet should be free of internal and external parasites and not have been exposed to any contagious diseases.
• Do not feed your pet for at least 4 hours prior to kenneling to minimize the possibility of stomach upset.

Boarding at a kennel is the best alternative, but separation from master and/or being in strange surroundings can produce stress in an animal, and stress can result in lowered resistances and even temporary changes in behavior. Be sure to inform the kennel personnel of any special habits or medical problems your pet may have, such as a history of epilepsy or fear of thunder, etc., that may aid in keeping your pet healthy and happy.

You should understand the possible affects of stress on an animal and not be shocked if, temporary behavior changes  occur as a result of unfamiliar surroundings. Eating habits change under stress,   They may put on a few pounds. Others can lose weight though eating well or lose weight by not eating enough.

Remember your boarding kennel owner is in the business because he/she loves animals

Pet Boarding