Dog boarding can be one of the safest and most comfortable options for your dog when you're away. However, since not all boarding kennels provide the same level of care and safety, it's essential for pet owners to thoroughly research before choosing a facility. In this article, we’ll guide you through the key signs of a safe dog boarding facility and help you make the best decision for you and your dog. If you're in need of a safe dog boarding facility, you can always book a reservation at one of our locations.
Signs of a Safe Dog Boarding Facility
Dog boarding is a service that provides a safe environment for pets to socialize, play, and rest under professional supervision while their owners are away. Here are some of the criteria that make up a dog boarding facility that is safe.
Proper Screening of Dogs
Proper screening is essential for safety in a dog boarding facility. A thorough screening process involves evaluating each dog's temperament, behavior, and vaccination records before boarding. This helps in identifying dogs that may not be suitable for group settings, thereby preventing potential conflicts or overall health risks.
Additionally, understanding a dog's energy level, potential medical issues, and any special needs is crucial for creating the best plan of action. An orientation day before boarding is standard practice at Petropolis, so we can cater the experience to your dog's unique needs.
Supervised Play
If dog daycare is part of your chosen facility's boarding experience, play groups should never be left unattended. A staff member should be well equipped to supervise the group at all times and spot concerning behaviors that may present challenges (like resource guarding). An unsupervised play group is a recipe for disaster, so Petropolis makes sure your dog will never be left unattended with other dogs.
Experienced Staff
Aside from knowing how to spot concerning behaviors, boarding staff must know how to redirect a dog's attention, keep the group calm, and intervene during negative interactions. Petropolis doesn't believe in using pain or punishment with dogs, so we redirect dogs' attention with recall games, treats, and our play features. In addition, a safe dog boarding facility will also staff someone familiar with canine first aid and practice safety protocols in case of medical emergencies.
Healthy Balance of Activity and Rest
All-day play sounds fun in theory, but dogs need proper rest. Whether it's playing with other dogs or individual attention, regular activity keeps dogs engaged and happy as long as they have a safe space to relax afterwards. Petropolis breaks our play schedule into two sessions: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Then, dogs settle down in the evenings in their private rooms.
Spacious, Comfortable Rooms
No one wants to leave their dog in a cramped, uncomfortable room. A safe dog boarding room should have plenty of space for your dog to stretch out and walk around. Dogs should also have access to drinking water and a comfortable place to nap. And while no boarding space is silent, a boarding space broken into smaller bays is ideal for minimizing noise and stress.
Climate-Controlled Facilities
Dogs should be able to stay comfortable despite the weather. Here in Missouri, the weather can be unpredictable year-round. Petropolis always keeps indoor areas cool during the summer and warm during the winter. When they go outside for daycare, we have covered play yards, heaters, shaded areas and water features to keep dogs comfortable no matter the circumstances.
Tours of the Facility
Taking a tour of a boarding facility is an essential step in ensuring the safety and well-being of your dog. During a tour, pay close attention to the cleanliness and organization of the boarding areas, as well as the overall atmosphere. Observe how the staff interacts with the dogs and whether they are attentive and knowledgeable about their clients. You can always take a tour of one of our Petropolis locations before boarding as part of your orientation day.
Customer Reviews
When looking for a safe boarding facility, it's important to review feedback from previous customers. These reviews provide insight that you might not gather from a tour or orientation. They often reveal how staff interact with dogs, the cleanliness of the environment, and the overall safety and happiness of the pets. Moreover, customer reviews can highlight any recurring issues and demonstrate how effectively the facility addresses concerns. Both Petropolis locations proudly maintain a 5-star rating on Google, reflecting our commitment to quality care.
Key Takeaways for Dog Owners
Choosing the right dog boarding facility is crucial to ensuring your furry friend's safety, comfort, and well-being while you're away. Safely boarding dogs includes proper screening of dogs, attentive and highly trained staff, balanced activity and rest, spacious accommodations, and climate control. Taking the time to tour facilities, read customer reviews, and ask important questions will help you find a reputable facility that meets your dog's unique needs. With the right preparation and care, boarding can be a positive, stress-free experience for both you and your dog.
