Enjoy Your Pet’s Affection

So, you're going out of town and you need somebody trustworthy to watch your dog while you're gone. You decide to research pet kennels in your area, but you've never boarded your dog before, so you're a little nervous and unsure of what to expect. Of course you want your dog to be comfortable and well taken care of until you return. By keeping some important tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to a successful pet boarding experience.

DO Pack Food and Toys

First of all, understand that while most kennels will provide food for your dog at no extra charge, it's always a good idea to back a bag of your dog's regular kibble. After all, not all dogs adjust well to new food, and some may even refuse to eat what they're not familiar with. Furthermore, ask the kennel workers ahead of time how many of your dog's toys you can bring; most will have a one- or two-toy limit, but having access to one familiar toy can make all the difference--especially for naturally anxious dogs who may otherwise feel out of their element in a kennel.

DO Inquire About Payment

When it comes to pet boarding, most kennels price their services similar to that of a hotel. In other words, if you pick up your dog past the schedule "check-out" time at the kennel, you'll automatically be charged for another day. It's important to inquire about how a kennel prices their services so as to avoid unexpected fees. Furthermore, some kennels have designated drop-off and pick-up times, so if that's the case, you'll need to make sure you arrive within that window.

DON'T Forget Play Sessions

Finally, depending on how long you're going to be gone, you might want to consider purchasing some add-on packages for your dog. At the very least, most kennels will provide you dog with daily walks, feedings, and trips outside to go potty. However, many kennels also provide the option to purchase "play packages," where an employee will take a certain amount of time out of his or her day to play with your dog one-on-one. This is definitely recommended if you're going to be boarding your dog for an extended period of time.

When it comes to boarding your dog for the first time, there's a lot to learn. By keeping these tips in mind, however, you and your dog will be on the right track. Talk to experts like The Pets Place Animal Hospital for more information.