Dog boarding - sometimes you need to have your dog boarded while you are away. Maybe your friends or family are too busy or away. Some people have pet sitters, but they are not always available during the holidays. While it's great to take your dog on vacation / trips, sometime you just can't bring them with you. So we've come up with a list of things you will want to ask and do before sending your dog to a boarding facility.

Go Visit

We think it's super important to visit the facility first. You'll want to see how clean it is an how it's maintained. Where are the dogs are kept during the day and at night? What other dogs are at the dog care facility? Do you like the dog handlers? Do they have all the appropriate licenses and training?

For our dog, we prefer a boarding facility that is cage free and has private stalls and a den for the pack. Some friends send their dog to an ranch where the dogs sleep outside like horses do in stalls. Every dog is different, so find a place that works for your and your dog's lifestyle.

Questions to Ask About Dog Boarding Care

• Are all dogs required to have a personality test / examination before they stay at your facility?
• What is the dog to handler ratio?
• Where do the dogs sleep?
• Does a handler stay in the same area where the dogs sleep?
• Are large and small dogs separated?
• What is the feeding schedule?
• What is the sleeping schedule?
• Do they have emergency procedures? Is a vet nearby or on staff?
• Do they ask for your vet's details and a release form so they can send your dog to your vet in case of an emergency?
• Do they ensure your dog has all the required vaccines / shots?
• Do they ask you to food for your dog? This is preferable as your dog can get sick if their food is changed quickly.
• Do they ask you to bring an old t-shirt or something that has your sent? While not necessary, this can be comforting for your dog. Generally they will not want you to leave toys with your dog and they'll probably get lost and /or other dogs might get jealous or steal the toys.
• Will they send you photos and updates on how your dog is doing while you are away?
• Can your dog get a bath / grooming before you pick him/her up?
• Do you provide drop off / pick up service?

Doggy Cam

Personally, we think it's better if there is a doggy cam so you can log in and see your dog. The online doggy cam should be password protected so not everyone can check in on your dog. It's a nice comfort to check in and see your dog is ok. It's also good to know that the facility is confident in their care facility and don't mind owners checking in.

Questions to Ask About Dog Boarding Costs

• What is the cost of boarding?
• Is the cost of day care included?
• Are there costs for feeding?
• Are there costs for dog walks / relief walks?
• Consider getting a cost estimate for your dog's dog boarding before you commit.

Want to check out country boarding? Check out our post Country Dog Boarding - Vacation for Your Dog!