How to find dog kennels near me?

Dog kennels are a handy pet sitting option when you have to be away for a couple of days or weeks and you can’t bring your dog with you. No matter how sociable your dog is, preparing for and leaving him in a dog boarding kennel is no small thing. Finding a dog kennel near you can make it easier. Here’s how to find one.

How to find dog kennels near me?

There are a few ways to find the perfect dog boarding kennel near you. No matter the way in which you find it, it’s best to visit the premises before you book one. This is the only way to make sure that your dog will be fine staying in there while you’re away.

Internet search

Most businesses have their own website or a page on Facebook. You will find those easily with a simple Internet search. It can be a bit tedious to visit each and every website but this should give you a good idea of the facilities around you and the type of boarding they offer. Depending on where you live, you should find facilities offering standard boarding and luxury one resembling pet hotels.

Ask for recommendations

There’s nothing like the recommendation of someone you trust to help you find the best place near you. You can ask around you: at the park where other people walk their dog, at your agility group if you attend one, or even in local shops. Happy customers have been shown to be very willing to recommend a company they’re satisfied with. Dog parents are no exception!

Your vet

You can turn to your vet for recommendations, especially if your dog suffers from a medical condition and needs medication. Your vet may be able to recommend a facility he personally knows or advises as to the basic comfort requirements your dog needs, such as the size of the crate or the level of physical activity.

How much do dog kennels cost?

The prices of boarding kennels vary according to several things, like your location, the level of comfort and your dog’s size. Adds-on, like extra daily walks or grooming services, can also increase the daily rate. The average price per day for a kennel is $18.

Many facilities offer discounts if you board several dogs at the same time or if your booking exceeds a set number of days. Please bear in mind that food comes on top unless you provide enough food to last the entire stay. Some facilities also ask for a non-refundable deposit to protect themselves from no-show at a period of high demand.

Tips for a successful dog kennel experience

There are a few things you need to prepare before boarding your dog in a kennel.

Vaccinations & health

Your dog must be up to date with his annual vaccinations. You will be required to show proof of it on arrival. Some centres also require dogs to be vaccinated against kennel cough as a precautionary measure. Your dog also needs to be fully wormed and free from fleas.

If your dog has a medical condition or has special health requirements, don’t forget to discuss it in detail before the boarding starts. Kennel staff can give medication but you will have to give a copy of the prescription and write down clear instructions (drugs, dosage, etc.).

Personal belongings

No matter how used to kennels your dog is, it’s always best to bring a few things to help him settle. This can include:

• Food and treats: this is especially important if your dog is a fussy eater or follows a special diet. Make sure you bring enough food for the whole stay.

• A few of his favourite toys: it’s best to select a couple of toys that your dog can use at all times or that can be used for playing with his dog sitter. Avoid anything too big or too noisy.

• His bed or his crate if he uses one: though dog kennels provide beds, your dog will certainly feel more comfortable sleeping on his own.

• Your dog’s health records and the contact details of your veterinary: even if your dog is perfectly healthy, don’t forget to bring those with him to the kennel.

Please read our article about what boarding kennels are for more information.