In 2015, 15 dogs died due to a fire that broke out at a boarding facility in Monterey, California
While the facility had smoke alarms, it did not have a fire alarm, which would have signaled 911 to dispatch the fire department even if no one was there to report the fire.
A working fire alarm could have potentially prevented the loss of life that occurred during this tragedy, yet there are no codes in place that require kennels to have such alarms.
A new bill was passed by the California Senate that would establish safety, sanitation, space and other rules for pet boarding facilities and introduce a fine system for violators.
Tips for Choosing a Boarding Facility for Your Pet
These are certainly important, but be sure you also ask about emergency plans.
Look for a facility that has both smoke and fire detectors in place, and that is monitored 24/7 to alert emergency services in the event of a fire or other disaster.
Facilities should have an evacuation plan in place to get boarded pets out of harm’s way and to a safe alternative location quickly.
Other safety features to look for include security systems, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and motion detectors (to alert staff if a pet gets loose or someone unauthorized enters the building after hours).
The facility should have either a night attendant or remote monitoring capabilities so that pets’ safety is being looked out for even after hours.
Be sure to ask about the procedure for an after-hours emergency evacuation.
In addition, you’ll also want to consider the following factors when choosing a boarding facility:
- Is the staff knowledgeable and caring?
- Does each dog have access to an indoor-outdoor run and a schedule for exercise?
- Are dogs able to rest comfortably, off of a concrete floor?
- Are cats housed away from dogs?
- Is there enough space for cats to move around comfortably?
- How often are pets fed and can you provide your own food?
- Are veterinary services available?
- Is the facility clean, well-ventilated and kept at a comfortable temperature?
- Are outdoor areas protected from harsh weather conditions (sun, snow and rain)?
Alternatives to Boarding Facilities
Even under the best circumstances, typical boarding facilities are stressful for pets accustomed to living in the comfort of your home, and the chance of him contracting any number of contagious diseases is higher than if he stayed at home.
If you have a trusted family member who is already familiar with your pet, that can be a good option — but many people do not or may feel uncomfortable asking for such a large favor.
Hiring a pet sitter to care for your pet in your home can be a good happy medium, allowing your pet to maintain his familiar routine and bypass the stress of being sent to a strange boarding facility.
Finding a responsible, qualified and caring pet sitter is crucial, however.
Referrals from friends, neighbors, family, your veterinarian or your dog trainer are often the best sources of pet sitters.
You can also check for pet-sitting services in your area by searching online or contact the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International.
During your interview with your potential pet sitter, ask about past experience, what types of pets she’s cared for, and whether she’s completed any special training.
In addition, your pet sitter should be able to provide written proof of commercial liability insurance (in case of accidents) and should be bonded (to protect against theft).
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Be sure to also discuss communication; will your pet sitter text you written updates or photos daily?
You’ll also want to ask for references of past clients and carefully observe how she interacts with your pet in your home environment prior to your trip.
Boarding Facilities That Buck the Status Quo
With that in mind, it is possible to find boarding facilities that dogs enjoy.
One that has set the bar very high is Your Dog’s Inn, which is a holistic doggy daycare that also offers boarding and grooming, located in Newburgh, Maine.
I interviewed its owner, Elizabeth Miller, in 2014, and she shared that her facility is based on what she believes Mother Nature intended for dogs, including daily activities that stimulate the body and mind, rest with other dogs, some obedience training, and exercise in the great outdoors.
In the event you’re considering leaving your dog at a doggy daycare or boarding facility, be sure to watch my interview with Miller, below.
It will give you an idea of what types of traits to look for in a boarding facility that’s leaps and bounds above the rest.
