Find out how often pets are fed. They should be fed a high quality, name brand diet twice a day. You may, however, prefer to bring in your own food, so find out if this is possible. Also, each pet should have their own water bowl, and be sure to ask how often they are given water. Find out, too, how often and how long pets are exercised, particularly if cats are allowed any time out of their cage for exercise.

Be sure to observe the employees as well. Are they friendly and cooperative? Are they willing to take the time to answer your questions? Are they trained, caring and observant? Also notice how they interact with the other boarding pets. Do they take their time when handling them and treat them gently? Or do they appear hurried, impatient and in a rush? Be sure to ask if there is staff on premises 24 hours a day. Also be sure to observe the behavior of the other pets.

There are some additional health and safety issues that you should also inquire about. First, make sure that the facility requires that all entering pets have proof of immunizations, and you may want to find out what immunizations in particular they require. You'll also want to ask about their policies regarding flea and tick control and if they automatically give all leaving pets a flea bath or shower. Make sure, too, that there is adequate and appropriate supervision of your pet. Employees should be trained to determine signs of distress and/or illness, and they should be regularly checking on your pet. Find out if there is a veterinarian on site or available and if they are certified, along with what procedures are taken if a pet appears ill or refuses to eat.

Return to the previous page on boarding facilities.
Continue reading about pet boarding facilities.