Ask Asa: How to choose the right kennel for your dog
The most essential vacation reservation you make this summer may be for loved ones you leave behind—your dogs. How do you keep them safe and happy? Ask Asa!
The most essential vacation reservation you make this summer may be for loved ones you leave behind—your dogs. How do you keep them safe and happy? Ask Asa!
The most essential vacation reservation you make this summer may be for loved ones you leave behind—your dogs. How do you keep them safe and happy? Ask Asa!
Finding someone to look after your cats is relatively easy. Dogs are a different story. And when the dream of leaving yours with a friend or hiring an in-home dog sitter falls flat, kennels are the only option.
Kevin Brasler, executive editor at Consumers' Checkbook, says the good news is commercial kennels have evolved from doggie jails where pups received little exercise or socialization to something far better.
"Now, at least during the day, when staff are around, all the dogs commingle and play and can run around and do things. They're not just locked away and lonely," he said.
Georgia and South Carolina strictly regulate dog kennels. They require operators to provide proper care and treatment, including emergency veterinary care when necessary. But care is delivered differently from kennel to kennel, and you want to match the services provided with your dog's needs and personality.
"It's important that you book a stay at a trial run before you go on a week-long trip," Brasler said.
As with so many things, technology has improved the kennel experience. Thanks to webcams, you may even be able to virtually visit your pet while you’re away.
"Most kennels, at least good ones, will happily let you inspect all their facilities and explain how you know how they care for the dogs and what the living arrangements are. And there are webcams. Some will even give you a daily report card to find out what your dog did that day," Brasler said.
Brasler says kennels should do a health check when you arrive and ensure all your dog's vaccinations are current.
"Because if they insist on it for you, it means they asked everyone else for it, too—and that means your dog will be safe and healthy while there," he added.
If the kennel is unwilling to answer all your questions or show you around take your dog and walk right out that door.
