As much as you may love to take your pet with you everywhere, sometimes that’s not possible. If you’re headed out on a business trip, family vacation, or other getaway, it may be necessary to find someone else to watch your pets. When you’re only gone for a few hours or maybe overnight, it can be feasible to have someone stop in a few times to care for your pet, but for longer trips, boarding your pet is often the best option.
At a reputable boarding facility, you know they will receive the care and attention they deserve. You don’t have to worry about them making a mess of your house or getting into trouble while you are away. Staff will be there ensuring they are safe, have food and water, and get some exercise. Here are a few things to consider when you’re selecting the right facility for boarding your pet:
- Are there required vaccines/immunizations? Many facilities require dogs to be vaccinated for rabies, distemper, Bordetella, and sometimes canine influenza. This is to help keep all animals safe and healthy. You don’t want your pet to catch a preventable disease because they – or another animal – were not vaccinated.
- Can you take a tour? Go see the facility in person and check out all the areas your dog or cat will have access to. Does the facility look and smell clean? Is it relatively quiet? Do pets have enough room to move around in their designated space? Don’t be afraid to ask questions or look for potential safety issues.
- Is there indoor and outdoor space for exercise? You’ll want your dog to be able to run and play while you’re away, regardless of what the weather is like. Check to see what accommodations they offer as far as exercise and play time.
- Are dogs separated appropriately? You don’t really want your small chihuahua playing with a mastiff or vice versa. Find out if animals are separated by not only size and breed, but also temperament and energy level during play time.
- What accommodations are provided? What does the space look like where your dog or cat will be staying? Do they provide bedding or do you need to bring your own? You may also want to ask about bringing a familiar blanket or toy from home to help your pet feel more relaxed.
- Is staff trained? Does the staff seem knowledgeable and caring? Are they attentive to the animals in their care? If your dog requires any medication or special care, are they willing and able to provide that?
- Do they offer additional services? See if you have the option of getting your dog bathed and groomed while they are there so you don’t have to worry about it when you come back. They’ll be clean, styled, and ready to go!
- Do they accept cats too? Dogs aren’t the only ones who get lonely or cause trouble when left alone. Cats can also benefit from more attentive care while you’re away. Ask if there is a separate space for cats and what types of services are available to them.
It can also be a great idea to ask for recommendations from others about facilities they really enjoy and have had good experiences with. Lake Wylie Pet Resort offers luxury boarding for both dogs and cats to give you peace of mind while you’re away. Dogs and cats are kept in their own separate spaces designed to meet their needs, and staff checks in regularly to ensure they’re safe, happy, and healthy. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s stay!