What types of services do pet boarding facilities offer?
When you go out of town, you need to figure out where to leave your pets. A boarding facility is a good option as it keeps them supervised, safe, and protected. Here are some different services you can expect from a pet boarding facility.
Dog Walking and Yards
If you are planning on having your dog stay in a boarding facility, they will likely offer a variety of ways to let the dog go potty. Depending on the location and size of the facility, it might have a grassy area in the front or back, which has a gate around it so dogs can run free. This is often part of the dog's play time in addition to being able to go potty. If it is a smaller facility without a yard, dog runs for exercise are also common. There may also be additional services where a staff member takes each dog for a nice walk every day, though this depends on the individual facility.
Play Rooms for Cats
Cats also get some special services. They won't be taken on walks and are often not placed in the same play area as the dogs. In this case, they will have their own room inside or outside the facility where they get plenty of play time. If the outdoor area is closed off, the fence will be placed higher so the cats can't jump up and escape. Some kennels for cats have multiple levels inside the kennel so the cats have more space for jumping and playing, while still being kept from other animals. Other boarding facilities don't use any type of cages or kennels and leave the cats in an open room at all times.
Medication Administering
If your pet is currently in need of regular medication, a good boarding facility will be able to administer them. You should ask about this service before choosing a boarding facility, as some of them might not feel comfortable giving medications. You will likely have to sign a release form when you place your pet in the facility that states you are entrusting them with administering medications and release them from liability if there is a problem with your pet due to the medications. However, in a medical emergency, they will call your vet or have the animal taken to the nearest animal hospital.
One-on-one Attention
A service you should look for when you want to choose a pet boarding facility is one where the pets get individual attention. The dogs and cats should not just be placed in kennels or a room with other pets. There should be humans that are there to walk dogs, play with cats, and help them socialize. This attention is an important way to make them feel more comfortable in the facility while you are gone.