Choosing a Kennel

Our animals are more than just animals. Most of us consider our dogs and our cats as family members, as our best friends. For that reason we are willing to pay the money and do the extra work necessary in keeping them happy and healthy. We also try to keep them with us as much as humanly possible. But with the summer months approaching many of us will be going on more business and personal trips. These trips mean that we will have to board our babies in kennels.

At first, this thought is usually a scary one for us to contemplate, especially if this is the first time that we are to be separated from our beloved animal. But there are steps you must take before you choose the appropriate place to leave your animal.

Most kennels are great. The people who run them are like us. They love animals and are willing to do the work to make them as happy as possible. But there are the few others who are just doing the work for the money. For that reason, first you must do the research. Don't just pick up the phone book and call the first kennel you see listed.

Personally, I recommend you ask your friends, people at your favorite pet store and even your vet for recommendations. But don't just stop there. Go to the kennel yourself. Don't call ahead. Get into your car and show up at their front door. Explain that you are searching for a kennel to leave your beloved animals. Then ask them to show you around the place. Look at the accommodations, the beddings, the area for runs, the area where food is stored and of course the animals that are there at the moment.

Here are a few basics all kennels should have. Ask to make sure they have them.

Cleanliness.

The first step here is to smell the place yourself. Does it smell clean and fresh?

Cleanliness is important because you want to protect your animal from disease. Also ask about the indoor ventilation and what types of disinfectants they use.

Running area.

This is the area where they allow the animals to exercise. Does it look safe? Do the animals get at least one walk or run a day? Is it possible for them to get more than one walk a day, if your animal is used to walking more?

Diets