Caring for an animal companion requires more than good food and exercise. It also means finding the best place for that four-legged friend to stay when his human family is on vacation or away for the weekend. The type of dog boarding DC animal lovers demand includes excellent physical facilities and individualized attention, as well as an attitude of deep respect for all living creatures.
Like humans, dogs have distinct reactions to abruptly leaving the comforts of home. Some truly enjoy the break in routine, while others find it terrifying and traumatic. The process of choosing a boarding facility should include the understanding that not every dog will react identically to separation, and that each will have differing requirements for care once they arrive.
Ask your own veterinarian which type of care will be most appropriate. If there has been an overnight hospital stay, the staff can make helpful suggestions regarding previous behavior away from home. Vets are also routinely exposed to the opinions of their customers, and while an animal doctor will probably not recommend a kennel by name, they can help prevent people from making poor choices.
Finding a good facility that is a reasonably short drive away can save both humans and dogs from the stress and discomfort of a long ride. When an animal arrives in a state of emotional or physical distress, handing him over to the care of strangers is difficult for everyone. When a promising facility is also close and convenient, make an appointment to take a tour in advance.
Not all states require certification, and there are tangible differences in standards. A routine visit usually reveals any obvious problems with sanitation. While it is impossible to always keep a kennel in pristine condition, residents should be provided with fresh bedding and clean water regularly. If the animals seem to be in a state of turmoil with constant barking or howling, they are probably unhappy.
The real key to running a successful and desirable facility is a good staff. Seasoned caregivers will ask about the need for special diets, therapeutic exercises, current medicines and dosing schedules, as well as any personality quirks that may have an impact. While dogs are undoubtedly animals, they should also be treated with the same respect as human hotel guests, with attention given to age and disabilities.
Playtime should be supervised, and is most effective when dogs are divided roughly by size and age. Not all kennels include this service in their basic packages, so be sure to ask about additional charges. Some energetic dog breeds require additional walks, and this must be arranged ahead of time. Play areas should be checked for obvious hazards, and dogs should not wear collars during play activity for safety reasons.
Be sure your animal has all required immunizations, because the close proximity of kennel life can also spread contagious disease. While it may be impossible to know everything about a particular care facility in advance, most animal owners instinctively sense when an environment is not suitable for their pet. Never hesitate to ask a pertinent question, and do not choose a facility that cannot provide the right answers.
Like humans, dogs have distinct reactions to abruptly leaving the comforts of home. Some truly enjoy the break in routine, while others find it terrifying and traumatic. The process of choosing a boarding facility should include the understanding that not every dog will react identically to separation, and that each will have differing requirements for care once they arrive.
Ask your own veterinarian which type of care will be most appropriate. If there has been an overnight hospital stay, the staff can make helpful suggestions regarding previous behavior away from home. Vets are also routinely exposed to the opinions of their customers, and while an animal doctor will probably not recommend a kennel by name, they can help prevent people from making poor choices.
Finding a good facility that is a reasonably short drive away can save both humans and dogs from the stress and discomfort of a long ride. When an animal arrives in a state of emotional or physical distress, handing him over to the care of strangers is difficult for everyone. When a promising facility is also close and convenient, make an appointment to take a tour in advance.
Not all states require certification, and there are tangible differences in standards. A routine visit usually reveals any obvious problems with sanitation. While it is impossible to always keep a kennel in pristine condition, residents should be provided with fresh bedding and clean water regularly. If the animals seem to be in a state of turmoil with constant barking or howling, they are probably unhappy.
The real key to running a successful and desirable facility is a good staff. Seasoned caregivers will ask about the need for special diets, therapeutic exercises, current medicines and dosing schedules, as well as any personality quirks that may have an impact. While dogs are undoubtedly animals, they should also be treated with the same respect as human hotel guests, with attention given to age and disabilities.
Playtime should be supervised, and is most effective when dogs are divided roughly by size and age. Not all kennels include this service in their basic packages, so be sure to ask about additional charges. Some energetic dog breeds require additional walks, and this must be arranged ahead of time. Play areas should be checked for obvious hazards, and dogs should not wear collars during play activity for safety reasons.
Be sure your animal has all required immunizations, because the close proximity of kennel life can also spread contagious disease. While it may be impossible to know everything about a particular care facility in advance, most animal owners instinctively sense when an environment is not suitable for their pet. Never hesitate to ask a pertinent question, and do not choose a facility that cannot provide the right answers.
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This article collected, selected and written by: Author Van Hoc
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