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Boarding Your
Dog
If it's not possible
to bring your dog along on your vacation,
you'll have to arrange for his care while
you're away. One choice is to have a
reliable person come to your home several
times a day to feed, water, exercise, and
spend time with your dog. You could always
hire a professional pet-sitter, these
services are springing up in many places.
This however is a whole separate topic. You
would need lots of references before you
could trust someone to come and spend so
much time with your pet. Another
consideration is that dogs have a tendency
to "look" for their masters. So make sure
that your dog will not be able to escape to
find you, wherever you chose to keep your
dog. Dogs can be great escape artists, and
will practically do anything to look for
their masters.
I own three dogs, and the very few times I
have left my dogs was with my vet. That is
not always the best choice for everyone.
Remember you must feel comfortable about
where you leave your pet. Don't leave you
pet in a place if you have doubts. These
doubts could nag you on your vacation.
Another solution is to board your dog at a
reputable kennel. Prices and services for
kennels vary, but whether you choose your
vet's office or a lavish "dog spa" , pay
special attention to the following.
Trust your common sense when visiting a
kennel as a possible spot for your dog.
Meet the staff. Do you like them? Are they
naturally happy? Again, trust your
senses.
Make sure that the whole kennel, outdoor
and indoor runs included, is clean and
safe.
Make sure there are no offensive odors. A
kennel should NOT stink of doggy smells. I
remember one place I went into, it stunk so
bad I just turned right around again.
Terrible.
Check the temperature. It should not be too
hot or too cold. Also, see if there is
ventilation. You don’t want your dog in a
stagnant air situation. I know that goldens
and labs do not tolerate heat well.
The pens should be spacious for the size of
your dog.
The running area should be clean and made
of concrete. Outdoor areas must be
shaded.
It should be will lit.
If they are responsible kennel owners, they
will ask you for proof of shots for your
dog.
I believe a very important point is to take
a tour of the boarding facility. You should
be taken in to where the pets are housed.
It should be clean.
Make sure your dog is secure in the kennel.
Could he escape to try to find you? This is
a very important step.
Doggy Ideas...
Bring along your dog's bed or blankie and
favorite toys. Try not to be stressed when
you drop your dog off. A dog can sense
this. Once you have chosen the place for
your dog, you should feel comfortable and
guilt free to leave your pet there. If you
are confident, your dog will feel this.
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