What to Look for When Boarding Your Puppy

To provide a happy, safe experience for your pet during time away from home, consider boarding him. Start by checking out local kennels, and ask if they are members of the American Boarding Kennels Association, which requires certain professional and ethical standards for membership. If you decide to board your puppy, contact the kennel well in advance. Ask as many questions as you like and be sure to inquire about immunization requirements. Many kennels will require a bordetella shot, along with rabies, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.

It is essential to observe the general appearance of the kennel; safety; supervision and staff; sanitation; health care, such as dispensing medication and veterinary services; access to drinking water; feeding procedures; exercise area; provisions for animal comfort, such as temperature control, ventilation, adequate light, and protection from outside elements; and sleeping quarters. If your puppy hasn’t been boarded before, consider a short overnight stay before an extended stay—or even an afternoon of dog daycare. This will help him get more comfortable with the experience. Once he becomes familiar with his new surroundings, chances are he’ll have a great time, not unlike a kid at summer camp.

After picking him up from the boarding kennel, don’t feed your pup or give him water for at least four hours after returning home. He will be overexcited, which may trigger food-gulping, vomiting, and diarrhea. If he seems thirsty upon arriving home, provide a few ice cubes rather than water. Then let him calm down and rest.

If you are going on vacation this summer check out our Summer Care Tips for taking care of our pet.