Whether it’s because of a vacation or an out-of-town emergency, most dog owners in Alexandria, VA will need to find extended boarding for their pet sooner or later. If you need to find Pet Boarding in Alexandria, VA for your dog while you’re away, it’s important to do your homework and find a facility that offers the best care you can afford. Below are some guidelines on what to look for in a boarding facility to make sure your dog will be staying in a secure and stimulating environment.
Disease Safety Measures
The threat of diseases being spread between animals is a huge concern with dog owners seeking Pet Boarding in Alexandria, VA. To lower the risk to your pooch, The Humane Society recommends choosing a shelter that requires animals to be up-to-date on vaccinations for Bordatella, Parvo, Distemper and Rabies. You should also make sure the shelter you’re considering is cleaned and sanitized often and has enough ventilation to combat the spread of illness.
On-Site Veterinary Care
A good boarding facility will have a veterinarian on-staff or on-call in case of accidents or medical emergencies. This is especially important if your dog suffers from a chronic illness like diabetes or epilepsy. If your dog has medical issues that require frequent attention, you may want to choose a boarding kennel that’s run in conjunction with an animal hospital or veterinary clinic so there’s always a health professional nearby.
Safe Outdoor Play
Dogs need plenty of daily exercise, so make sure the outdoor area of a kennel is clean, safe and supervised. Fencing should be at least 6 feet high and in good condition, and the area should be kept clean of excrement. Water should be available to dogs at all times during extended outdoor play sessions. Also make sure that outdoor play is supervised by a staff member in case of accidents or fighting between dogs.
Adequate Staff
To make sure your dog is getting enough individual attention, look at the staff-to-dog ratio in the kennel you’re considering. According to the ASPCA, there should be at least one staff member present for every 10-15 dogs being boarded. Any less than that, and your dog may not receive enough one-on-one time to keep him safe and happy.
If you choose the right facility, boarding your pet can be an exciting experience for your dog. For experienced pet boarding in the Alexandria, VA area, contact Fort Hunt Animal Hospital.
