What is Dog Boarding and Choosing the Right Service

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Posted Oct 25, 2024

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Black and White Long Coated Small Sized Dog
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Dog boarding is a service where your furry friend stays with a trusted caregiver while you're away. It's a great alternative to leaving your dog at home alone.

There are different types of dog boarding services, including in-home boarding, where your dog stays in a private home, and kennel boarding, where your dog stays in a facility with other dogs.

The cost of dog boarding varies depending on the type of service, location, and amenities offered. On average, dog owners can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per day.

Ultimately, the right dog boarding service for you will depend on your dog's needs and your personal preferences.

For another approach, see: Bernese Mountain Service Dog

Before Boarding

Before boarding, it's essential to know what to bring to make your dog feel comfortable and at ease. Your dog's favorite toy can provide comfort and familiarity in an unfamiliar environment.

Bringing your dog's food is crucial to prevent digestive issues or allergic reactions. Suddenly switching their food can cause problems, so it's best to stick to their regular diet.

A piece of clothing with your scent can also help your dog feel more secure. If your dog snoozes in a bed, consider bringing that too, to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort.

When Dropping Off?

Closeup Photo of Brown and Black Dog Face
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Before you drop off your dog, the facility will likely explain what to bring. This includes your dog's favorite toy and a piece of clothing with your scent.

Bringing your dog's food is a good idea, as suddenly switching their diet can cause digestion issues or an allergic reaction. They'll appreciate sticking to their regular meal plan.

If your dog has a favorite bed, consider bringing that too, as it can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity.

How to Handle Being

Every dog's response to boarding is unique, and it's essential to observe how your dog behaves during a trial run with a potential kennel.

Some dogs thrive in boarding environments, enjoying playtime with other dogs, new smells, and a temporary change of scenery.

You can expect staff members to take note of your dog's behavior and adjust their care accordingly.

Curious to learn more? Check out: What to Do with Your Dog's Ashes?

Finding Local Services or Sitters

You can start your search for a reputable dog-sitting service by asking friends, family, and neighbors about their experiences. This can give you a good idea of what to expect from a particular service.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Ada for Service Dogs

Credit: youtube.com, PET 🐾 SITTER | 7 Must Ask Questions Before Hiring A Pet Sitter For Your Furry Friend

It's also a good idea to call your dog's veterinarian and ask if they work with or recommend any local dog boarding services. They often have a network of trusted professionals who can provide top-notch care for your pet.

You may want to start your search early, as the sooner you start looking, the more options you'll have available. This can help you find a kennel or pet-sitter who puts your dog's comfort first.

Asking for recommendations from your friends, family, veterinarian, or groomer can be a great way to find a good dog boarding facility. They often have insider knowledge about the best places to take your pet.

Kennel Requirements

Before you leave your furry friend at a dog kennel, it's essential to understand the requirements and health measures in place to ensure their safety and well-being.

Many states require dog kennels to have proof of dogs' vaccination records to prevent outbreaks of life-threatening diseases like parvovirus and rabies.

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You'll want to ask about the kennel's immunization requirements and what vaccinations are necessary for your dog to stay healthy.

Some kennels may also accommodate dogs with health conditions, such as arthritis, by providing frequent playtime breaks and daily joint supplements.

Other kennels may have measures in place to ensure the overall health of their dogs, including regularly cleaning dogs' crates and quarantining dogs with concerning symptoms.

To get a better sense of the kennel's health practices, consider asking the following questions:

  • How does the kennel accommodate dogs with health conditions?
  • What measures does the kennel take to ensure the overall health of its dogs?

Facility Options

Dog boarding facilities can range from home-based operations to large, commercial kennels. Some facilities may offer separate areas for small and large dogs.

In addition to kennels, many dog boarding facilities also provide indoor play areas where dogs can socialize and exercise. These areas can be equipped with toys, beds, and other amenities to keep your dog comfortable and entertained.

Some dog boarding facilities may also offer private suites or rooms for dogs that prefer more quiet time or have specific needs.

Finding a Facility

Dog Inside a Kennel
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Finding a facility for your furry friend is crucial to ensure their comfort and well-being. A reputable organization should have no problem letting you visit the dog runs, ask questions, and meet the employees.

You should be allowed to see where meals are prepared, along with the space where the dogs play. If you visit a kennel and you're not permitted to view the entire facility, it's a major red flag.

A well-run dog boarding service would be eager to show you everything, as it would have nothing to conceal. Be wary of kennels that don't require immunization records, seem overbooked, or appear disinterested in your pet.

Their paws are free from dried urine or feces - a simple check can give you an idea of the cleanliness and hygiene of the facility.

To make sure you're getting the best facility for your dog, do your homework before reserving a new dog boarding service. Request quotes to see the diversity of dog boarding fees in your area and read websites to get a sense of each border's approach.

Short-coated White and Brown Dog
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Here's a quick checklist to help you evaluate a facility:

  • Is the facility willing to accommodate a site visit?
  • Is the exterior and interior of the facility clean and well-maintained?
  • Do the staff have training and certificates hung on the walls?
  • Are you allowed to see where meals are prepared and the space where the dogs play?
  • Are immunization records required?
  • Does the facility seem overbooked or disinterested in your pet?

Daily Kennel Activities

Daily kennel activities are a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a boarding facility for your furry friend. Dogs need regular exercise and socialization to stay happy and healthy.

A thriving boarding kennel should offer frequent playtimes, face-to-face contact with staff, and regular interactions with other dogs. This can help prevent boredom, anxiety, and destructive behavior.

Some kennels provide detailed daily itineraries, which may include training exercises, such as teaching basic obedience skills like "sit" or "leave it." This can be especially helpful for puppies or dogs that need to brush up on their skills.

Playtime with hand-picked groups of dogs is another great way to ensure your dog gets adequate exercise. Kennels often group dogs based on compatibility, age, and energy levels to prevent conflicts and ensure everyone has a great time.

Water-based activities are also a fun way to keep your dog cool and entertained on hot days. Many kennels have inflatable swimming pools, hoses, and sprinklers that are perfect for water-loving breeds like Labradors and English Springer Spaniels.

Credit: youtube.com, Proper kennel setup ideas!

If you're considering a boarding facility, ask yourself if the daily activities seem fun and engaging for your dog. Would you want to stay there? If not, it may be a sign that the kennel isn't a good fit for your furry friend.

Here are some specific questions to ask about daily kennel activities:

  • Is there a veterinarian on staff?
  • If not, does the kennel work with local veterinary services in case of an emergency?

Some Specifics

Dogs must be up-to-date on their vaccinations for rabies, bordatella, and DH-L or A-PP, with the H3N2 flu vaccine strongly encouraged.

All puppies must complete their final round of adult vaccines before attending their first visit.

To ensure a comfortable stay, owners can bring their pup's personal bedding, food, treats, and toys, except for raw hides and balls.

Boarding prices are based on room rate, and a completed and signed Boarding Agreement is required.

Daycare is included in every dog boarding stay, and checkout time is 2pm, after which the full daycare rate will be applied.

Here are the daily daycare costs:

A ten-day punch card costs $230 for one dog, $345 for two dogs, and $460 for three dogs.

Packages must be used within 30 days, and some facilities offer frequent visitor rewards programs for repeat guests.

Pampered Suites

Credit: youtube.com, Pet sitting vs. pet boarding facilities: Advice from the animal humane society

At Puppy Palace in Phoenix, the Pampered Suites offer a luxurious getaway for your dog. Each suite has a window, providing a comfortable and well-lit space for your pet.

You can choose from a variety of sized suites, capable of accommodating even large families. This makes it an ideal option for multi-pet households.

Puppy Palace guests receive three daily walks in addition to their own outdoor run, giving your dog plenty of exercise and attention.

A comfortable cot is provided for those not bringing their own bed, and each room is stocked with toys to keep your dog entertained.

Service

If you're looking for a reliable dog boarding service in Phoenix, consider Canine Country Club & Feline Inn. They offer a vacation-style experience for your furry friends.

Their dog boarding service provides a safe and comfortable environment for your dogs, allowing them to enjoy some freedom while receiving top-notch care. You can trust that your dogs will be in good hands.

One of the benefits of their service is that there's no rate increase for larger dogs, making it a more affordable option for pet owners with bigger companions.

Cost and Rates

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Dog boarding costs vary depending on the location and services offered. The average cost to board a dog overnight is around $35 per night.

The cost can range from $22 to upwards of $60 a night, depending on the services included and the type of boarding facility. Some facilities may offer discounts for extended stays or multiple dogs.

You can expect to pay around $45 per day for the first dog, with each additional dog from the same family costing $22.50 per day. Some facilities may charge the same daily amount for all dogs, regardless of size or breed.

Day boarding, also known as "doggy daycare", is a more affordable option, with costs ranging from $25 to $50.50 per day for one to three dogs. Some facilities may offer discounts for multiple dogs or extended stays.

Here's a breakdown of the costs for dog boarding and daycare:

Some facilities may also offer additional services, such as grooming or training, at an extra charge. Be sure to ask about these services when inquiring about dog boarding or daycare.

Accommodations and Care

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At Canine Country Club & Feline Inn in Phoenix, they have a spot suited just for your dog, whether it's small or large. Each dog or family of dogs has their own indoor space and an adjoining outdoor run to sixteen feet in length.

Dogs can go out to take care of business anytime, so there's no need to reacquaint them with the schedule you prefer when they return home. Canine Country Club & Feline Inn in Phoenix makes the transition back home smooth.

Expect your dog to have loads of fun with them, with playtime, naptime, and so much exercise and fun that they won't be feeling down while you're away.

Nighttime Care

We're proud to say that our nighttime care is top-notch, with 24/7 attendant presence to ensure your dog is always taken care of.

Our attendants conduct regular nighttime checks to keep an eye on your furry friend's well-being.

If an issue arises, we have a network of veterinary services that we can visit in an emergency.

Your Own Home

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If you're looking for a more personal and comfortable experience for your furry friend, consider dog boarding in your own home. This option is perfect for dogs with mobility challenges, separation anxiety, or anxiety around other dogs or unfamiliar settings.

Your dog gets to stay in the relief of their own home while the dog sitter keeps an eye on them, feeds them according to their regular pattern, walks them regularly, and gives them love and attention. This can be especially beneficial for dogs that are used to a routine.

In-home dog sitting has the added benefit of keeping your house occupied while you're away from home, minimizing the chance of break-ins. The extra cost also helps to pay for transportation.

Here's a breakdown of the rates for in-home dog sitting:

  • $21.25 for 1-6 hours
  • $42.50 for 7-12 hours
  • $63.75 for 13-18 hours
  • $85 for 19-24 hours

It's essential to provide the dog sitter with emergency contact information, access to any pet first aid supplies, and prescription instructions, just like you would with a dog boarding facility.

Return

Brown and White Short Coat Medium Size Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Brown and White Short Coat Medium Size Dog

Returning to your furry friend after a trip away is always a joy, but it's also a good idea to know what to expect in terms of costs. Dog Boarding Rates in Phoenix can vary depending on the accommodation.

If you're booking a dog suite, you'll pay $55 per night for the first dog, and $35 per dog per night for any additional dogs staying in the same space. This is a great option for dogs that enjoy their alone time or have different personalities.

The cost for additional dogs in a dog suite is a flat rate of $35 per dog per night, which is a significant savings compared to the $26 per dog per night rate for boarding in the same space.

To Expect

Your dog will have loads of fun with us at Canine Country Club, where they'll have playtime, naptime, and plenty of exercise and fun.

We keep your dog's happiness and health as our top priority, so you can rest assured they'll be well taken care of.

White and Brown Long Coat Small Dog
Credit: pexels.com, White and Brown Long Coat Small Dog

They'll receive more stimulation while boarding than they ever will at home, which might lead to some thirsty or exhausted behavior when they get back home.

Just let them adjust at their own pace, and keep an eye on them to ensure they're not overdoing it with the water or food.

Give them lots of love and attention, and they should settle back into their routine in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when a dog is boarded?

When a dog is boarded, it means they stay overnight at a facility, often referred to as a dog hotel, kennel, or resort, while their owners are away. This is a common option for pet owners who travel or need temporary care for their furry friends.

Is boarding good for your dog?

Boarding can be beneficial for some dogs, but it may also cause stress in others, depending on their individual personalities and needs

Bryant Blick

Senior Writer

Bryant Blick is a talented writer with a passion for storytelling. With a keen eye for detail, he brings readers into the heart of the stories he tells. His writing career has taken off with a focus on exploring the rich tapestry of food culture.

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