Pet Boarding

Guide Note

Pet boarding ensures the care of a pet while the owner is out of town or otherwise unable to care for it. Pet boarders vary in quality of care. Many will provide the essentials of care including food, water and exercise, while others will provide extras such as one-on-one attention and rooms with a view.¹

Fast Facts

1. Some provide the basics food, exercise and a place to sleep¹
2. Some veterinarians will board pets¹
3. Alternative: Pet-sitters²
4. Avoids stressing pets with travel²

Look around the facility. The place should look and smell clean. The play and housing areas should be adequately sized. The temperature, light and ventilation should be comfortable. Kennels that exclude non-vaccinated pets will prevent diseases from spreading.^{2 1}

Find out the state requirements for kennels; if they need to be certified be sure that the kennel chosen has the appropriate certifications. Check the to see if the kennel is a member of the American Boarding Kennel Association or if any complaints about it have been submitted the Better Business Bureau. Ask how the rates are calculated.²