What is pet boarding, and how to identify which type is best for your furry friend’s comfort? Leaving your pet at a boarding facility ensures it will be well-treated while you’re on a trip. Some provide daytime care, while others offer overnight and longer stays for traveling pet parents. There are different types of pet boarding facilities. There are boarding kennels, doggy daycares, pet hotels, and boarding kennels run by veterinarians. This article will guide you through various pet boarding options so your furry friend can enjoy a comfortable and safe stay while you’re away.
Discover the various pet boarding facilities accessible and what you need to do and know before leaving your dog or cat with a boarding facility so you can make the best choice for your fur baby.
Most people think of dog kennels when they hear about traditional pet boarding. This type of dog boarding is more traditional because each pet has its own space. Owners might choose to keep them isolated if a dog is aggressive, small, shy, or doesn’t get along with other pets. The majority provide three to four everyday walks and opportunities for group socializing, or you can choose alternatives like an individual run or pen.
Many doggy daycares are places where you can leave your pet for a couple of hours during the day, but some also provide pet boarding. This option has gained popularity among working pet owners, as they provide their dogs with everyday socialization with other pets in addition to numerous free-range exercise and group playtime activities. This is helpful for social pets that like to play more than rest.
Similar to dog kennels, cat boarding facilities place cats in specific areas. If your cat is not used to dogs, boarding with cats may be less stressful. Cats may be housed individually in cages or, if the facility is cage-free, they might share condos or suites with other cats.
Vet hospitals and clinics with pet care plans can be helpful when your dog or cat has a serious health condition, needs regular care, or is still recovering from surgery performed weeks ago. The pet’s health can be observed by a veterinarian, who can also provide medication as needed. Although pet boarding with a vet can be more expensive than regular pet boarding, it gives pet parents peace of mind.
A pet hotel offers high-end accommodation for pets in a facility more commonly called a kennel or cage-free boarding. Facilities might offer entertainment options like TVs, spas, pools, individualized and group playtime, and exercise and socialization opportunities. Review each pet hotel’s layout and structure, and contact the facility to find out more. They may provide different services and packages, but all will treat your pet like royalty.
Private, in-house boarding is an alternative to traditional pet boarding, whereby you bring your furry friend to someone’s home. These facilities are rarely accredited, yet their affection for animals and home-like atmosphere give your pet the comfort of a home environment, fewer pets to handle, giving your pet more attention and playtime than other boarding facilities.
When pet parents have to leave their pets behind, there are different boarding options from which to choose. Pet owners can locate the best boarding facility for their pets and themselves by discovering the various options. You can rest assured and enjoy your travel, knowing your pet is in good hands.
