Ask These Questions Before Boarding Your Dog
Going away and leaving a Dog at home is like leaving a member of the family behind and care should be taken when picking a location for his care while you’re away. Take the time to ask the right questions before choosing a place to care 
for your friend. I have listed a few questions that should help you make a wise decision and ease your mind while you are away.
Ask if you can tour the dog boarding facility?
Always take the time to visit the kennel before booking a reservation. If you are deterred from making a visit, that is a bad sign. If they do not want you to see the facility, then they most likely have something to hide.
If the facility does not want you to see the environment that your pet will be staying, then it most likely means that the kennel runs are kept unclean, or the crates are too small.
If you are not allowed to tour the facility, find one that will allow you to visit and tour. Business owners should be happy to show-off their business and not afraid to allow customers in. That’s why I suggest a smaller facility like Bull Valley Retrievers.
How clean is the dog kennel?
Areas that house with several dogs in it is never going to have a pleasant scent, or be totally clean. However, is the staff an effort to pick up any visible dog droppings? Is the facility kept dry? If you notice the ground being wet, is it because the kennels were recently cleaned? This will only be noted if the owner allows you to visit and you can see the area where housing takes place.
Will My Dog Be Allowed to Interact with Other Dogs?
I hear this question a lot and to be perfectly honest with you, I do not think that they should have interaction with other dogs while being kenneled. Yes, dogs are social creatures and need to be socialized, but not in that type of 
environment. As a kennel owner, the last thing I want to do is have to call the owner and tell them that their Dog was involved in an altercation with another dog. Keep in mind that they are animals and though owners may say that their dog will never get aggressive with another dog. That is until it happens! I have seen the calmest nicest animals get upset and retaliate in an environment where there are multiple animals running around and violating their space. I only let dogs out one at a time, unless they are from the same family. Yes, it takes more time, but is the safest means for the dog to get out and do his thing. However, you need to make the decision that is right for you.
How much is Dog Boarding Going to Cost?
Going away, unless in an emergency situation should include a budget for your dog’s boarding. When finding a facility to
house your dog, be sure to ask the total cost of the stay. Be sure to ask for any additional costs for amenities such as extra yard time, to administer medications or special diets. If necessary, get a written estimate before the stay.
How clean is the dog kennel?
Areas that house with several dogs in it are never going to have a pleasant scent, or be totally clean. However, is the staff an effort to pick up any visible dog droppings? Is the facility kept dry? If you notice the ground being wet, is it because the kennels were recently cleaned? This will only be noted if the owner allows you to visit and you can see the area where
housing takes place.
Tip: Tip the Kennel Staff
Why not slip the staff member an extra something? Just like the doorman or the garbage man, a little tipping can go a long way when it comes to a little extra care. If you feel uncomfortable tipping, you could make a nice gesture like bringing in cookies or donuts when dropping off your dog.
Ask all the questions you can and find the kennel that answers them the way you want. Not until then will you feel
comfortable with your dog boarding decision and then you will be able to enjoy your time away without the worry of your dog being taken care of correctly.
I hope this has given you a bit of information and will help ease your mind when you decide to kennel your dog.
Joe Scarpy
Author Bio: Joe is the founder of HuntEmUp.com, The Worldwide Sporting Dog Superstore and Owner of Bull Valley Retrievers, Northern Illinois Retriever Training, specializing in all-breed obedience and Retriever Field and Gun Dog work. Joe brings to the table years of training and hunting experience as well as knowledge of the latest hunting and training products on the market, to help you make your hunt and dog the best he can be.
At HuntEmUp.com, we know sporting dogs. From the time they’re a puppy, through their senior years, we’ll keep you informed on the latest news and information. For more information on Training, Preparing and Caring for your Dogs, read our Hunting and Sporting Dog blog.
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