If you are planning a family getaway or need to take a business trip, you may be forced to board your furry friends during your time away. Leaving your companions behind can be as stressful for you as it is for them—but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, choosing the right pet boarding facility is easy when you ask the proper questions. Here’s how to coordinate your choice with your pet’s needs.

Questions to Ask a Pet Boarding Facility

Can I Tour the Facilities?

If you receive an answer other than yes, take your business elsewhere. Viewing a pet boarding facility firsthand is a must. When touring, make sure the kennels are spacious and clean and pay mind to the overall atmosphere of the facility. If something doesn’t feel right, move on.

How Many Pets Are Boarded at Your Facility Each Day?

Reputable pet boarding facilities have a license that limits the number of animals they can house. Determine whether your pet will stay in a private room or if they will share it with other animals. If two to three animals stay in each kennel, find out why. Some facilities house multi-dog families together, though this is more an exception than a rule.

How Often Will My Pet Be Taken Out of the Kennel?

Though it’s unlikely your pet will be afforded the same freedoms they enjoy at home, it’s still important that they are allowed out two to three times each day.

Does Your Kennel Have Climate Control?

If you keep your pet indoors the majority of the time, they may be accustomed to climate control. Leaving your pet at a facility with no heat or air conditioning may cause them unnecessary stress.  

How Do You Handle a Pet Emergency?

Should something go awry while you’re gone, you want to ensure it will be handled promptly and professionally. A reputable kennel will have access to emergency vet services and notify you immediately in the event of a pet emergency.

With two state-of-the-art Columbia, MO, facilities, Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital offers a comprehensive set of treatments ranging from routine checkups to full-scale surgeries. Visit them online or call (573) 449-3791 (Keen Street) or (573) 449-7387 (Buttonwood Drive) to learn more about their pet boarding services.