Choosing the Right Dog Boarding Facility: A Comprehensive Guide
Leaving your beloved dog in someone else’s care is a significant decision. With numerous options available, it’s essential to choose a facility that ensures your dog’s safety, comfort, and happiness. At Dogs Country Club & Kennel Resort, we’ve compiled this guide to help you make an informed choice.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Dog Boarding Facility
Security Measures
Ensure the facility has robust security protocols. In Victoria, regulations mandate “two gates to escape,” meaning your dog must pass through two secure barriers before exiting the premises. Verify that the facility complies with the Victorian Boarding Code of Practice and has passed annual council inspections. This includes people who offer home boarding services.
Experienced and Professional Carers
Loving dogs is one thing; caring for them professionally is another. Inquire about the staff’s qualifications, experience, and training. Facilities with a team of trained professionals can provide consistent care, even if a staff member is unavailable.
Facility Inspections and Compliance
A reputable boarding facility or home boarding business should be registered with the local council as a domestic animal business and undergo annual inspections to ensure compliance with the Domestic Animals Act and the Victorian Code of Practice for Animal Boarding. Don’t hesitate to ask for proof of these inspections.
Availability and Flexibility
Understand the facility’s booking policies, especially during peak periods like holidays. Also, inquire about their ability to accommodate last-minute bookings in case of emergencies.
Safety and Cleanliness
Inspect the facility for cleanliness and safety. Ensure that play areas are free from hazards and that dogs are supervised during interactions. Ask about protocols for handling emergencies or illnesses. This is especially important in home boarding situations. A backyard can come with many hazards which should be rectified before dogs can play in them safely.
Accommodation and Exercise Areas
Your dog should have access to comfortable sleeping quarters and ample space for exercise. Tour the facility to see where your dog will sleep, play, and eat. Ensure that the environment suits your dog’s size, age, and activity level.
Professional Affiliations
Membership in professional organizations like the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) indicates a commitment to high standards and ongoing education. Such affiliations can provide added peace of mind.
Emergency Procedures
Inquire about the facility’s emergency protocols. They should have plans for situations like power outages, natural disasters, or medical emergencies, ensuring your dog’s safety at all times.
Downloadable Checklist
To assist you further, we’ve created a detailed printable checklist expanding on these key points. Use it when evaluating potential boarding facilities to ensure you cover all essential aspects.
Choosing the right dog boarding facility is crucial for your peace of mind and your dog’s well-being. At Dogs Country Club & Kennel Resort, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier care, ensuring your dog feels at home while you’re away. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a tour of our facility.
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”
– Roger Caras