When many people adopt a pet, they rarely consider what they will do with them should they ever need to take a trip. Unfortunately, taking their animal companion with them may not be possible in certain situations. When this happens, many pet parents turn to friends, family members, or colleagues when they need someone to care for their pets. 

This may seem like an inexpensive and effective solution. However, you need to understand that taking care of a pet is a huge responsibility to ask of someone who does not own a pet. Also, many people may feel that they cannot possibly refuse despite being uncomfortable with the idea. 

Pet Boarding 

You probably consider your pet an important member of your family. Pets can help enhance people’s lives in many ways. This includes their emotional, mental, and physical health. Hence, many pet owners find it extremely difficult to leave their pets behind when they need to go out for some time. 

Fortunately, pet boarding facilities provide a great option. They offer pets a comfortable home away from home when going with their owners is impossible or impractical. Some of the frequently asked questions about pet boarding include:

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

Many pet boarding facilities require booking, especially during holidays. You may need to book several days, weeks, or even months in advance, depending on the facility you choose. Thus, it is vital to determine how far in advance you need to book and whether you need to pay a deposit when booking. 

Does Your Pet Require Vaccinations to Stay at the Facility?

Most pet boarding facilities require vaccinations. However, this industry remains largely unregulated. Thus, it is best to ask before leaving your pet. For example, many dog boarding facilities require certain canine vaccines. These include canine parvovirus, infectious hepatitis, canine distemper, and rabies. 

If the facility does not require vaccinations, you need to ask them how they prevent infection. Many infectious diseases can spread through bodily fluids, bites, and even the air. Even if your pet got their vaccinations, they are still susceptible to some diseases. 

How Does the Facility House Pets?

If the pet boarding facility you choose houses both cats and dogs, it is important to keep them out of hearing or view of each other. Also, you should choose a boarding facility that houses pets in well-ventilated and clean areas. Your pet should have enough room or space to move around, urinate, or defecate if they need to. 

Do They Exercise Pets?

If you choose to leave your dog in a boarding facility, you should ensure that they will enjoy at least three exercise times every day. Thus, you should ask them how often they take out pets and for how long. 

Other important questions to ask include:
 

• Do the facility’s staff members play with pets?
   

• Does the boarding facility accommodate animals with special needs?
   

• Do they provide additional services, such as nail trimming, training, or grooming?
   

• Will they feed your pet with their regular or favorite food?
   

• Do they have an emergency plan?
   

• Can you take a tour of the facility?

To learn more about pet boarding, visit Port Royal Veterinary Hospital at our office in Port Royal, South Carolina. You can call 843-379-7387 today to schedule an appointment.