Dog Boarding - What you need to know

At one point or another you will probably find that you have to leave your dog behind while you're traveling. Although most dog owners will admit that they are not perfectly comfortable leaving their pet behind, there are some precautions that you can take to make sure that your dog is safe and comfortable while you're gone.

Dog Boarding Toronto - A list of Dog Boarding Facilities in Toronto

While sometimes the best alternative when leaving your dog behind is to him or her stay with a trusted family member or friend who has had interactions with your dog, sometimes this isn't an option.

The option of Dog Boarding

Dog boarding can be a great option while you are traveling and there are usually several business offering this services in most cities. However, it's vital that you visit the dog boarding facility to make sure that the temporary place your dog will be staying in is organized, safe and comfortable.

Things to consider when Dog Boarding


Cages and Crates
While it might be fine for crate trained dogs to stay in a small place for a while, you need to look at dog boarding facilities that have room from your dog to play in. Also, dog that are not used to being in a crate can have anxiety issues if left in cage for too long. If your dog has arthritis, they will also need more room to move around. If you think your dog may have an issue then you may want to consider an upscale dog boarding service which offers more space. Yes it may cost you a bit more money but at least you won't be worrying when you leave your dog.

Walks and Runs
When consider a dog boarding service you also want to ask the facility how ofter they take out dogs for walk. Some facilities only take out the dog for a few minutes one or two times a day. If your dog is used to this then it may not be an issue if you're traveling but if your dog is used to some daily exercise than you should consider a dog boarding service which offers regular daily walks or at least one long daily walk or an outside area where your dog is free to run around in.

Food and Diet
What your dog will eat is sometimes overlooked when an owner is boarding their dog when they're traveling. An immediate change in diet can add to the stress of a dog who is being boarding and could result in diarrhea or vomiting. Before boarding your dog, you should always check if they allow you to bring your own dog food which your dog is accustomed to. Some dog boarding facilities will charge an extra fee for special diets so you should check before leaving your dog. Also, it is important to leave special instructions to the boarding facility to inform them of any special dietary requirements which your dog may have including any food allergies.

Other dogs in the facility
Some dog boarding facility have daily sessions where dogs are permitted to play together. You need to make sure that your dog gets along with other dogs before considering this as an option. Even dogs that may seem okay with other dogs can get over stimulated in a group environment. If you're considering this as an option, you need to make sure that to dog boarding service is fully monitoring these play sessions and that they only allow a few dogs to play together at once thus minimizing to chance of an issue arising.

Sickness and Injury
Most reputable dog boarding services monitor the daily habits of their dogs. Some will keep a log of everything including their appetite, water intake, urination and defecation. If the dog boarding facility is not part of a veterinary hospital, you must ask them where they take the dogs if they get sick or injured. You can always ask if the facility will transport the dog to your own vet should an incident arise.

The Costs of Dog Boarding
Although it will cost your some money to board your dog while you're away, this should always be budgeted for just like you would budget for your vacation expenses. Always ask if there are any hidden fees or add-ons as you don't want to over pay. Remember that different dog boarding facilities offer different services and may charge on what they consider above and beyond such as special dietary accommodations, extra walks, and administering medications. The actual cost vary from one place to another so it's always a good idea to contact several places before making a decision.

Here is a list of Dog Boarding Toronto Services if you`re in the area.