Ask Safari Stan
Common Pet Questions

How do you shop for a responsible kennel when vacationing without your pets?

You should shop early and have a checklist.

The process should begin months ahead of your vacation. Responsible pet owners seek a clean and tidy kennel as well as one that is a good fit between their pet and the kennel operators.

The following checklist should guide you in making the right selection of a boarding facility for your pet:

• Is the facility licensed or zoned as required by your state's legislation? (Some states may not have such requirements)
• Is the facility clean and odor free?
• What is the daily maintenance routine?
• Is the facility temperature-controlled -- air conditioning and heating -- to meet seasonal changes?
• Does the facility require all pets to be current on vaccinations?
• Does the facility require all pets to be free of external or internal parasites?
• Does the facility have an on-call, licensed veterinarian should medical care be needed?
• Does the facility have an active pet groomer?
• Will the facility accommodate your pet's individual dietary needs? (Keeping your pet on its daily food will reduce stomach upset and diarrhea)
• Will the facility accommodate your pet's individual medical needs?
• Within reason, does the facility allow sterilize-able toys or other "home away from home" comforts for your pet?
• Does the facility have "safe" and "escape-tight" exercise areas for your pet? How often are the pets walked?
• Do the attendants at the boarding facility socialize the pets?
• Do the attendants at the boarding facility show sincere love and affection for the pets they watch over?
• Do those using the boarding service have good things to say about the facility? (Get 3 recommendations)