My Pet Boarding

You may worry about your pet if you have to go out of town for a long period and cannot take him along. A better idea than a pet sitter in this case, is a pet grooming and boarding facility.

The pet grooming and boarding facility should be such as to take proper care of your pet in both physical and emotional terms, in your absence. So, you should look for a facility that has a complete package of all your pet’s needs.

The grooming aspect of your pet involves nail clipping, cleaning the ears, controlling parasites like ticks and flea, brushing teeth and most important, looking out for infections, lumps and any other internal or external health problems, all this along with the regular shampooing and hair cutting.

It is important to find a professional pet grooming and boarding facility because the trained staffs are adept at tackling all needs of the pets properly. A trained person can safely do medical bathing, remove harmful substances, odours and matted fur and carry out other procedures that an untrained person cannot do easily.

The pet grooming and boarding facility should be clean and well lighted all over. The employees must handle the pets gently, should be aware of and accordingly meet their physical and emotional needs. The pet must be given special care and supervision so that he does not feel your absence and should not be under stress.

The trained staff should be quick to spot any health problems. The pet grooming and boarding facility should provide a complete record of medical, grooming and vaccination schedule. Some facilities even have report cards for the pets so that you can know how your pet behaved in your absence.

In spite of all the care and supervision, there are some drawbacks of leaving your pet with a pet grooming and boarding facility. The most important thing is that even though they may be looked after well, a pet could feel greatly stressed while living with strangers in an alien place. He may miss you a lot. Apart from this, being in close contact with other pets could lead to exposure to some health problems.

However, with no other alternative, it is best to leave your pet in the safe hands of a pet grooming and boarding facility with the hope that your pet will feel at home there.

Every time a pet owner travels they’re faced with the dilemma of how to care for their loved ones when they’re away. While some pet owners opt to bring their pets with them, others look to inexperienced friends or neighbors to care for their animals while they’re away.

What most pet owners need is a professional pet boarding service - a safe, secure and entertaining environment where they can leave their pets. Pet boarding gives pet owners peace of mind that their pets are in good hands, being fed and lovingly cared for. Statistics show that more than 30,000,000 pet owners every year make use of full-time, experienced boarding kennel operators or pet boarding service providers, a figure big enough to convince you that pet boarding is a booming business.

If you’re offering pet boarding services in your area, or are planning to do so in the future, the best way to lure in customers and build a regular clientele is by advertising your services through the internet. Online resources can help you get in contact with many potential customers with just one posting, but how do you do that?

Keep reading to learn how you can use the power of the web to grow your pet boarding business.

Online Forums:
Joining online discussion and forums is a great way to interact directly with pet-owners and people who share your passion for animals. You can exchange information, advertise your business and address questions from other users. Remember, some of the users joining these forums could be potential customers who will surely find your pet boarding services useful.

Social Networking Sites:
With the power of networking sites like MySpace, Multiply, Facebook, LinkedIn and others, you can get a free web space where you can upload pictures and information about your pet boarding services and connect directly with potential customers. The extensive networks on these sites provide you with maximum access to potential customers not only in your locality, but all over the world.

Web Communities:
Posting your profile in pet-related websites and online communities is another method to attract potential clients. Usually, these websites offer simple profile forms which can then be accessed by potential customers looking for your business.

Online Classifieds:
Online classifieds are a simple way to advertise your pet boarding services. Having your ad listed in the right place would point potential customers directly to you. A direct method is to advertise your business using an online pet services classifieds website. Utilize websites such which target pet lovers all throughout North America.

Classified ads will help you interact with the customers you want for your niche market.

A dog-boarding kennel is a safe and secure place for your pet to stay while you are on vacation or at times when you may not be able to have your pet with you. One of the best benefits of having your pet in a boarding kennel as opposed to leaving your pet with family and friends is that you know your pet will be kept safe, secure and well looked after by the kennel owners and staff. The best boarding kennels fill up quickly over the holidays and at favorite vacationing times. If you intend to go away at this time, make sure that you book your pet into the facility as early as possible.

Putting your dog into a boarding kennel will provide you with the peace of mind that you need in order to enjoy your vacation. A professional facility will provide around the clock care of your pet. The employees will be well trained and have experience in detecting the signs of distress or illness in your pet. There will usually be a vet either on premises or on call at the boarding kennel at all times.

Most of the time, a boarding kennel facility will be a member of the boarding kennel association. This means that the facility has been provided with proper training and direction and will adhere to strict guidelines in the quality care of your pet. A qualified and professional center will provide you with a tour of the facility and provide information about the care of your pet including the type of food it will be given and how often it will be exercised.

If you have special needs or your pet needs to be given medication, the staff at the boarding kennel will be able to provide this for your pet. You should make sure that the boarding kennel that you are thinking using is well ventilated, clean and comfortable for your pet. You ensure this easily by going to visit the boarding kennel and taking a tour of the facility. It will help ease your mind if you visit the boarding kennel and meet the people who will be taking care of your pet. This is a great time to ask any questions and express any concerns that you have about leaving your pet while on vacation.

Many boarding kennels will require that you bring proof of your pet’s immunization history and have your pet come to the center free of fleas and ticks. This is in the best interest of both you and your pet as you will know that the other pets in the facility are clean and free of parasites and disease.

Prices for boarding are quite reasonable and usually start as low as $12 per day. Luxury suites will be more expensive. There are many kennels that provide discounts for long term boarding. When leaving your pet at a boarding kennel it is a good idea to make your farewell quick and formal. This will reduce the amount of stress that your pet will suffer after you leave.

Chances are, at one time or another you will need to turn to someone else to care for your dog. Perhaps you’ve accepted a work assignment that will keep you out of town for a month. Maybe you’re finally going on that long awaited cruise. Whatever the reason, you find yourself in need of someone dependable and trustworthy to care for Rover. Although some dogs do best at home with a pet sitter, other dogs do better in a boarding kennel. Consider your dog’s personality and needs before making a decision.

Things to know up front: For kennels, pet boarding is a business. Their success depends on volume as much as quality care. Kennels care for many animals at the same time and your pet will probably be kept in a cage or run. Don’t expect a kennel to give your pet the same kind of attention and affection that you do; it just won’t happen. But good kennels employee people with a natural love of dogs that will be kind and gentle and care for your pet to the best of their ability.

Kennel choices: Most vet offices offer boarding services. While vet office care may be limited, with smaller cages and limited exercise opportunities, many people, especially those whose animals have medical needs, feel more secure leaving their pets with a trusted vet. Other owners turn to private boarding kennels that can range from bare-bones to luxurious. Sparse facilities do not differ much from vet offices. Cages are usually small and exercise is limited to two walks a day. More expensive facilities offer mixed playtime for dogs that are socialized, outdoor exercise areas, larger runs rather than cages, and grooming services (all of which may be at an extra charge). Upscale doggie hotels are all the rage in some areas. Your dog may receive a massage, bath and haircut, obedience training, soothing music and luxurious bedding while you’re gone.

Where to start: Whatever level of care you decide on, there are some basic things to know and do before making a final decision on where to board your pet. Price, comfort, health and safety are all valid concerns. After all, you’re entrusting someone else with one of the most emotionally valuable things in your life.

Ask friends, neighbors, family, and your vet or dog trainer for recommendations. Then do a little background investigation. If your state requires licensing and inspections, make sure the kennels you are considering are in good standing. Also ask whether the prospective kennel belongs to the American Boarding Kennels Association. This trade association promotes professional standards, requires members subscribe to a code of ethics, and offers accreditation for professionalism, safety and quality of care. If you’re satisfied that a kennel meets basic requirements, schedule a visit.

What to look for: First impressions are important. Sniff the air as soon as you walk in. There should be no strong antiseptic smell or odor of urine or feces. Some antiseptic odor is understandable in concrete areas, but if odors assail your nose as you walk in the door, you may want to consider another kennel.

Look for a pleasant atmosphere. Do the current boarded dogs look happy? Do they come to the front of the kennel to greet you? Dogs that lie to the back and do not interact are a bad sign. Is the staff competent, confident, friendly and caring or do they seem harassed and irritable? Are there a sufficient number of workers or are they short-handed and overworked? Is the kennel owner ready and willing to show you where your dog will be housed and exercise areas? If not, cross this one off your list.

Make mental notes as you tour the facilities. Are dog beds clean? Look for clean food bowls and water bowls without scum or floating objects. Are the runs clean or is there feces lying around? It’s impossible to keep all runs clean 100% of the time, but you’ll be able to tell the difference between filth and recent deposits. Is the kennel yard full of debris? Is the building in need of serious repair? Is there good ventilation and a comfortable temperature? If possible, take a look at the kitchen. A clean kitchen is a good indicator of a clean pet area. Get a tour of outdoor exercise areas and runs. Are they protected from the elements? Is the noise level overwhelming? Although it is impossible to prevent dogs from barking, especially while someone is walking through the facility, the kennel should not be overcrowded to the point where dogs are constantly barking. Observe any activities offered. Note especially how aggressive dogs are handled.

Brass tacks: If your first impressions are favorable, then get down to details. You need to know if pets are required to be current on vaccinations. Some kennels now require that your dog be vaccinated against Bordetella, canine kennel cough. Many kennels will allow you to bring your dog’s regular food. It not only cuts down on their costs, but helps your dog adjust to kennel life. If it is important that your pet stay on his regular diet, ask; don’t just assume. What veterinary services are available? Does the kennel have a vet on call? You may prefer that the kennel call your vet if there is a need. Make this information readily available and let your vet know that your pet will be staying at a kennel while you are gone. Ask questions about feeding schedules. If your pet needs regular doses of medication, make sure this service is offered. Find out how much exercise your dog will be getting and how often they are allowed to potty. Can you bring your dog’s bedding from home and his favorite toy? Is it important to you that a staff member be on the property around the clock? If so, make sure this is the case at your chosen facility. Be sure to get a breakdown of charges. Some services are included in basic daily rates, some are not. If price is an issue, get the details worked out up front so you won’t be surprised when you get home. And last, but not least, trust your instincts. If you just don’t feel good about a particular kennel, go somewhere else.

Prepare your pet: So, you’ve taken all the preliminary measures and selected a kennel for your pet. Now you need to prepare Rover for his stay. If the facility offers doggy day care services in addition to longer term care, give your pet the chance to try it out. Take him once or twice for just the day. Take special note of his first impressions and reactions. Quiz the staff on his behavior and interaction with the other animals.

Be sure your pet knows basic commands. Make sure he is current on vaccinations and is flea-free (most kennels require it). If your pet is going to be at the kennel for an extended time, you may consider a trial run of a weekend excursion. This allows you to work out any kinks before the longer stay. If necessary, teach your dog to sit before being petted or fed and to walk quietly on a leash. Socialize him to strangers, especially if medication or grooming will be provided at the kennel. Make sure he is accustomed to a crate if he will be in one at the kennel. It will make the stay less stressful and fearful for your pet.

Prepare the kennel staff: No one likes surprises, not even kennel staff who are accustomed to working with all animal personalities. If your dog has any unusual fears, aggression triggers or other idiosyncrasies, be honest for the safety and well-being of all involved. Let them know if Rover is not reliably housetrained, hates men or eats things he’s not supposed to.

On kennel day: Exercise Rover before you turn him over to the kennel staff. Leave the kids at home. Walk in the kennel door, give Rover a gentle pat, tell him you’ll see him soon and let him go. Long goodbyes, hugs and tears will only stress out your pet (and you). He’s not going to hate you for leaving. Go have fun.
Coming home: One last thing, don’t be surprised or alarmed if your dog segregates himself and sleeps a lot upon coming home. He is not upset with you or had a miserable time. Dogs in kennels are awake from the crack of dawn until nighttime. They are excited by barking dogs, meal times and visitors walking past them. He may simply be exhausted.

Boarding kennels can be a good solution for those times when your pet has to be left behind. Do your homework and find the best facility for you and your pet. It is well worth the time. Your peace of mind and your pet’s health are your reward.

Copyright 2007 Sherry Massey

About the Author:

Sherry Massey is the owner of Barker and Friends Natural Pet Treats. Our mission is to provide healthy all natural treats and food to help your dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives. Please visit us at http://www.naturalbarker.com for a great selection of all natural tr
Article Tags: dogs, kennel, pet

Read more articles by: Sherry Massey
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Article published on January 16, 2008 at iSnare.com

When the Smith family went on vacation last summer, they left Ralph the cat and Maxine the dog at home. A friend stopped by each day to replenish their food and water and spend a little play time with them. One would think the pets would have faired just fine, but that was not the case.

For days Ralph continuously meowed at the door while Maxine moped in the garage waiting for the car to arrive, unable to understand why their owners weren’t responding. By the time the Smiths finally returned, Ralph had hardly any voice left, looked thin and unhealthy and Maxine was clingy and despondent for days.

We take steps to insure our pets are safe and fed while we’re away, but sadly their emotional needs are left to chance. Even leaving your pet with an expensive boarding kennel can be like going to jail from your pet’s perspective.

Meanwhile, you are so worried about your pet back home that you can hardly enjoy your trip. It can spoil a long awaited vacation or hamper your effectiveness on a business trip.

Here are some ways you can leave your pet in good hands while feeling confident he or she is having just as much fun as you are.

* See to it that whoever it taking care of your pet also takes time to pet, play with, and walk your pet. Pets need love just as much as they need food and water. Sure, the caretaker isn’t the same as you, but pets enjoy affection from almost anyone who takes a sincere interest in them.

* Check in advance that the location keeping your pet is safe. Fences should be secure and your pet shouldn’t be in the same area as other animals who could harm him or her.

* Plan to call or email your pet’s caretaker while you’re away. Just hearing how your pet is doing can take a load off your mind and relieve stress you feel over your absence.

In recent years pet day camps have started to appear around the country. These services, operated by devoted professionals, gives your pet pampered care and treatment while you are away. Care not only meets the nutritional and safety needs of your pet, but caretakers pet, play, and even teach your pet new skills.

Pets can sometimes be boarded with specially trained host families. Such services can let you leave your pet in a "home like" environment complete with all the fun and love a caring family can give.

Why should your pet go to jail when you go on vacation? By following these simple tips, you can ensure your pet is safe, well taken care of, and has just as much fun as you do.

About the Author:

Pam Mathison is founder of Paws’N Play Pet Camp and Host Family Boarding in San Diego, CA. See her site at http://www.pawsnplay-pet-camp.com. For information on boarding your pet or on how you too can become a certified host family. Contact Pam at pawsnplaypetcamp@san.rr.com or 888-320-PETS.
Article Tags: care, fun, pet

Read more articles by: Pam Mathison
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Article published on October 05, 2006 at iSnare.com

Is your family headed for a great Spring Break vacation? How about your pet? Not long ago, many sent their pets off to a boarding kennel, but the newest trend is to find a good pet sitter to watch your pets at home.

When our family started looking for a dog…we had some rules. It must not shed, be hypoallergenic and be able to go to the kennel so we could still go on trips and vacations without the dog.

We managed to accomplish the first two, but after the first time taking our dog to the kennel…we changed our minds on the third. He is used to being the king of the castle, having free reign of the house and getting lots of attention. He hated being locked in a kennel by all these strange dogs and only getting minimal one-on-one attention.

This is when we started looking into pet-sitters for our family, but we are not alone.
In fact, pet sitting has steadily become more popular among pet owners over the last several years. Many prefer it to kennel boarding because it allows their sweet pets to remain home- in safe, familiar environment. Fido and Fluffy can have their own normal routines, their own toys and their own food. They also won’t pick up any new nasty habits from other pets.

Many people are also finding it easier to find pet sitters by going online. Sites like SitterCity not only match sitters for children, but also match sitters for your house and your pets! These sitters can watch the house, water your plants, check you mail and more. Other companies like Pet-Sitters Biz and Pet Sitters Network also have very extensive lists of pet sitters all over the country who would love to care for your pet.

So if you are heading out for spring break, give your dog a break too…and call a pet sitter!

About the Author

Beth Howland is a reviewer of products for parents like Sittercity. If you need help finding the right sitter for your family, visit http://www.SittercityReview.com for more information.

Author Beth Howland

So you’re ready to go on vacation! You’re ecstatic about your chance to escape to paradise. However, you care for you pet like your very own child and you realize that leaving your pet at a questionable boarding kennel will only make you worry yourself sick while you’re supposed to be enjoying yourself. Because, let’s not lie… you could be hanging upside down somewhere in Mexico and sucking margaritas through a straw and you’d still be worried about your little pooch. So, its time to find a kennel that will give you that peace of mind.

First of all, let’s dispel a myth. Dogs are NOT humans. While a kennel doesn’t seem like the best place for a human to stay, try to get inside the head of a dog. Think about dogs in the wild. They naturally seek out dens. Their den provides them with a feeling of safety and protection. Domestic dogs are the same. Domestic dogs will voluntarily seek out an area like a cage or under a coffee table or some type of enclosed area.

I’ve also heard people say, "I can’t board my dog in a kennel. Think about all those dogs barking." First of all, dog runs usually become loud only when there is some kind of excitement. i.e. visitors, feeding time, etc. And, once again, keep in mind that dogs are NOT humans. Sure it would be annoying to a human. But, barking is the language of dogs! Ever think how dogs feel in an area where there are a lot of humans talking? It probably sounds to them like a kennel sounds to us!

Finally, boarding can actually be a fantastic opportunity to socialize your dog. Dogs run in packs. They’re naturally sociable with their own kind. Interaction with other dogs is important for the development of your dog. You don’t want to deprive your dog of this completely natural part of being a dog.

With modern, sophisticated boarding kennels, this can absolutely be a pawsitive experience! This is not just a place where your dog gets shut away while you go on vacation. The modern, sophisticated boarding kennel actually provides an environment for your dog to also go on vacation and actually have a great time! Owning and operating our boarding kennel in citrus county FL has given us some unique perspective into the industry that we would like to share with you to help get that peace of mind while you’re away.