Holidays are everyone’s preferred time of the year. However, these trips can also pose challenges for dog owners. The initial thought I have before departing from home is where to care for my canine companion during my absence.
Certainly, many of us have someone from our family or friends to look after our pets while we are gone. Nevertheless, this might not be straightforward if our trip extends for 10 days or more.
Fortunately, there are dedicated facilities where we can leave our dogs – somewhat like their own accommodations!
Dog boarding facilities are a practical alternative, yet you should also be mindful of potential drawbacks of such establishments.
Advantage: Your Dog Will Be In A Secure Environment During Your Absence
A dog boarding facility is where your furry companion will receive sleep, physical activity, nutrition, and social interaction. This environment will resemble your home – just without your presence!
The optimal choice would be to select a kennel based on recommendations from trusted individuals or your veterinarian.
If the facility boasts favorable online reviews – even better! If you want total assurance that you are opting for a reputable boarding kennel, you can visit with your dog prior to leaving him there. This allows your pet to familiarize himself with the kennel.
If the boarding facility provides updates through images and videos of your dog, you can be certain that this place is trustworthy!
Additionally, having surveillance cameras in the kennel is a positive indicator. This is the primary feature I look for when selecting a kennel for my dog.
This demonstrates that the kennel’s proprietor understands dog owners and recognizes the importance of ensuring our dogs’ safety.
Disadvantage: Not All Boarding Facilities Are Ethical
It would be beneficial for you to learn how to identify signs of an unethical boarding facility. Check out the video below that elucidates these indicators.
If the facility’s staff does not instill confidence with their demeanor, you should consider alternative options.
Dogs of varying sizes engaging together is also a concerning sign.
If the kennel’s outdoor space isn’t fenced and appears unclean, this is not a suitable environment to leave your dog.
Benefit: Your Dog Will Have Social Interaction
I have acquaintances and family members whom I can ask to care for my dog during my absence. However, I always prefer a dog boarding kennel. Why?
Because I want my dog to experience meaningful socialization while I’m away. I could not request any of my contacts to devote extensive time to him, especially considering their hectic schedules.
Moreover, my dog always seeks more of their companionship! He is accustomed to receiving a lot of my focus, and I often have to modify my schedule to ensure I dedicate ample time to my furry companion.
I believe many dog owners can relate, particularly those whose pets belong to the breeds prone to separation anxiety.
A boarding facility is a wonderful solution in this case, as this is where your dog will engage socially – both with the kennel staff and other dogs.
Drawback: Not Every Dog Will Enjoy This Type of Socialization
Boarding facilities may not be the ideal choice for every dog.
If your dog is not well socialized, the boarding facility may not suit him. Interacting with numerous other dogs could traumatize your pet, leading to destructive behavior. Furthermore, this could negatively impact the other dogs in the facility.
Some dogs might be socialized, yet still fall into the category of shy breeds. If your dog prefers your company alone, or a select group of individuals, the boarding facility might not be the best fit.
Dogs that crave significant attention from their owners may feel dissatisfied with the level of attention they receive at the boarding facility.
High-energy dogs may find the activities inadequate, regardless of how engaged the staff is. Plainly, there could be too many dogs for each one to feel entirely content.
Advantage: Your Dog’s Routine Will Stay Consistent
My dog is accustomed to his regular puppy routine; his days generally follow a similar pattern, incorporating meals, playtime, potty breaks, walks, and naps.
When he misses any of these elements, he often becomes irritable. I am confident this resonates with your dogs, as canines generally dislike changes.
The wonderful aspect of a dog boarding facility is that your dog will continue having all aspects of his daily schedule.
The staff at the facility will provide meals for your dog, ensure he has a dedicated sleeping area, take him out to run and play, and give him attention.
In this manner, even while you are away, your pup will maintain his routine.
Drawback: Dog Boarding Facilities May Not Be Budget-Friendly
Quality service comes with a cost.
According to the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA), a single night of your dog’s stay in a boarding kennel in the United States may range from $30 to $60.
What accounts for the price variation? Some facilities provide the most essential services, such as a separate space for your dog, offering three meals daily, and taking him outside for potty breaks and exercise.
Others may offer a cozy dog bed, a heated space, or even a grooming session for your dog.
Unfortunately, the expense can be a drawback for numerous dog owners. If you are away for 10 to 15 days, the total cost can become quite substantial.
Is a Boarding Facility a Good Choice for Your Dog?
I would assert that yes, boarding facilities are a viable option for placing your dog in a safe environment while you are away on vacation, a work trip, or during an emergency.
I comprehend that many of you may be concerned about whether staying in a facility could be a stressful event for your dogs.
Nevertheless, there are even scientific studies indicating how boarding facilities can be beneficial for dogs.
A study published in the Physiology & Behavior Journal [1] analyzed the physical, behavioral, and physiological changes in dogs that spent time in boarding facilities.
Findings revealed that, based on their behavior, the majority of dogs did not view their stay in boarding facilities as stressful, but rather as a change in environment, at least in the short term.
Therefore, if you are comfortable with the service fee, and if you trust that your dog is socialized and prepared to be temporarily separated from you, I would recommend going ahead!
Just ensure that you select an ethical facility – a place where your dog will be completely safe until you return.
References:
[1] Part, CE: Physiological, physical and behavioral changes in dogs (Canis familiaris) when kennelled: Testing the validity of stress parameters. Physiology & Behavior, 2014; 133: 260 DOI, Retrieved March 22, 2023.