subject: Give Your Pets a Holiday Too [print this page] Give Your Pets a Holiday Too Give Your Pets a Holiday Too
When you choose your holiday destination and carefully plan which is the best hotel for you to stay in - don't forget to plan your pets holiday accommodation as well. Start the arrangements well in advance as the very good kennels get fully booked early, especially during the busy holiday periods.
Some points to remember when choosing your pet's Boarding establishment
Ask friends and family for recommendations.
Compile a list of questions to ask the kennel or cattery owner.
Go along to view the kennels/cattery you should be able to view without prior notice. Take notice of the other pets there, are they clean? Do they look happy? Does it smell and look clean? Is there clean water and sufficient room to wander round?
Find a kennel or cattery where staff are friendly, polite and interact easily with dogs and the customers.
The dogs and cats should be housed individually, and should not be able to make nose or paw contact with others, unless they are from the same household.
Ask about insurance cover in case of a veterinary emergency.
Ask about walks for your dog how often? Where?
How many staff are there per dog?
Kennels should be warm, secure, clean and dry with plenty of bedding - ask if you can take your pet's own bed and/or toys.
Check your kennel or cattery is licensed by the local authority.
A good kennels and cattery will insist on seeing up to date proof of vaccinations and will ask for lots of information about your pet.
In catteries make sure individual pens provide the cats with something to do like a scratching post.
Your check list when to drop your pet off
Leave yourself plenty of time as you don't want to be rushed. If you are stressed this will be communicated to your pet and unsettle them.
Take a written or typed list of your dog's ailments, medications, food intake and other special requirements.
Take your dog's up-to-date vaccination certificate.
Take a few day's supply of your dog's normal food.
Take items made of natural fabric that smell of you and will retain your comforting scent for a few days while your dog settles in.
When you leave, try to be jolly and matter of fact, rather than consoling, so your dog thinks there is nothing to worry about.
If you have researched your chosen kennel or cattery well you will be able to go on your holidays and relax in the knowledge that your dog or cat are in good hands.
