Going Somewhere? Know the Requirements for Pet Boarding

If you are relying on a boarding kennel to watch your dog or cat, know what is expected. Talk to boarding professionals early to ensure you have time for the necessary protocols, and visit Firestone Animal Hospital in Downey for veterinary assistance prior to dropping your pet off.

Vaccination Records 

Be wary of any boarder or kennel that does not ask for your pet’s vaccination history. Being unvaccinated in a boarding kennel can be potentially hazardous for your dog or cat; dogs are typically required to provide proof of rabies, distemper, and Bordetella vaccines. Additionally, you may be required to provide proof of a fecal examination within the past 180 days, which your usual veterinarian or animal hospital should be able to provide.

Temperament Testing 

Most boarders will perform a temperament test before your dog will be allowed to interact with other pets. This usually consists of a casual walk that only lasts a few minutes. Your dog is put on a six-foot leash and walked to assess for aggression, panic and anxiety, and avoidance behaviors. This reinforces how the dog may act when mingling with unfamiliar animals, people, and environments.

Spayed and Neutered 

Dogs should be spayed or neutered by age one; however, this is not always the case. Many pet boarding kennels will not accept pets that are not fixed, though some will accept them and keep them separated from other animals during their time there.

Obvious Issues 

Some obvious issues that could make it difficult and unsafe to board your pet are traumatic injuries, parasites, or being in heat.

When boarding, you also bear the responsibility of selecting the safest and best place for your pet. Ask if there is someone on site around the clock in the event of an emergency at the kennel. Ask about crisis protocol and what you – and your pet – can expect.

Is Your Pet Ready for Boarding? Let Us Help You Both! 

If you need a vaccination, wellness visit, or more information on how to prepare your pet for a boarding environment, talk to our veterinarian at Firestone Animal Hospital in Downey by calling (562) 928-1341. We can help you get your pet ready for a safe and successful time at a boarding facility.

What do you do to get your pet ready for boarding? Let us know in the comments.