Welcoming a new pet into your family is an exciting time, and ensuring their comfort and safety when you’re away is paramount. This guide provides essential information for pet owners considering boarding services, focusing on understanding kennel charges, required vaccinations, and what to bring to ensure a stress-free stay for your beloved canine companion. Making informed decisions about your pet’s care contributes significantly to their well-being, especially when they are away from home.
Boarding Charges and Drop-off/Pick-up Times
Understanding the fee structure is the first step in planning your pet’s stay. Boarding facilities typically offer various pricing tiers based on the number of dogs sharing a run. For instance, a common structure includes charges for Day Care, boarding for a single dog, and additional rates for multiple dogs sharing the same space. It is crucial to inquire about the specific daily rates for one, two, or even three dogs sharing a run, as these can vary significantly.
Drop-off and pick-up times are usually seven days a week, with extended hours to accommodate various schedules. A typical operating window might be from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. However, most kennels require scheduled appointments for both drop-offs and pick-ups to ensure smooth operations and adequate staffing. It’s also common for facilities to have a brief closure period each day, often between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., for cleaning and rest. Some facilities may offer a half-day rate if pick-up occurs before a certain time (e.g., 2:00 p.m.) and drop-off is after a specified time (e.g., 2:00 p.m.), with pick-up concluding by 7:30 p.m. This flexibility can be beneficial for owners with demanding schedules, but it’s essential to confirm these details with the specific kennel.
What to Bring for Your Dog’s Comfort
To ensure your dog’s stay is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, bringing familiar items from home is highly recommended. Most importantly, bring your dog’s regular food. Sudden changes in diet can disrupt their digestive system, leading to discomfort and an unhappy pet. Consistency in food is key to maintaining their health and a positive boarding experience. Additionally, pack any medications or supplements your dog is currently taking, along with clear instructions for administration.
Beyond essentials, consider bringing comfort items like your dog’s own bed, favorite toys, or a piece of clothing that carries your scent. These familiar objects can provide a sense of security and help your dog adjust more easily to their new environment. For owners concerned about their dog’s overall health and well-being during their stay, researching best supplements for dogs with heart disease or other specific health needs prior to boarding can be beneficial, allowing you to discuss any concerns with the kennel staff.
Bordetella Vaccine (Kennel Cough Vaccine) Guidelines
Preventing the spread of contagious illnesses is a critical aspect of boarding kennel operations. The Bordetella vaccine, commonly administered intranasally along with parainfluenza, is frequently used to protect dogs against kennel cough. However, it’s important to understand that vaccinated dogs can still shed the virus, potentially causing mild infections in other dogs. This shedding period usually lasts less than 72 hours, and the vaccine takes up to four days to provide full protection.
Given these factors, it is strongly advised not to vaccinate a dog with the intranasal Bordetella vaccine within 72 hours of their scheduled boarding or participation in dog shows. Ideally, vaccinations should be administered at least four days, and preferably seven days, prior to any contact with other susceptible dogs. This timeframe helps protect both your dog from exposure and other dogs from potential transmission. Some kennels, like Puddleduck, have specific policies, recommending the Bordetella vaccine be given at least two weeks prior to boarding. If a dog is vaccinated seven days or less before boarding, they may be unable to accept the dog to prevent outbreaks. For any specific questions or concerns regarding vaccinations, it is always best to contact the kennel directly. For those seeking specialized care, understanding options like bird vet near me or general vet care near me is also important for comprehensive pet health planning.
In conclusion, proper preparation, including understanding boarding fees, packing familiar items, and adhering to vaccination guidelines, ensures a positive and safe experience for your pet. Always communicate openly with your chosen boarding facility to address any specific needs or concerns your pet may have, ensuring they receive the best possible care. If you are looking for advanced medical services, facilities like eclipse specialty & emergency pet care offer specialized support. Considering the unique needs of aging pets, information about geriatric dog care can also be valuable for long-term pet health planning.
