A common dilemma for many dog parents is what to do when they have to leave town and leave their babies behind. Traditionally, dogs have been boarded at kennels or with their vet if there wasn't a friend or relative to watch them. Today, there are more dog friendly boarding alternatives than ever before. For those who would prefer not to board their dog in a kennel and are leery of a cage-free environment with a lot of other dogs--an option that may work is boarding your dog at a private home with a professional host. Here are some things to consider if choosing this option.
Instructions
1. Get recommendations from people you know who have boarded their dogs at private homes or from a pet professional you trust such as a trainer or veterinarian.
2. Look online for private home boarding. You can go through a company that requires their hosts to be certified (see Resources below) or you can choose independent private home boarding.
3. After you've jotted down a few, call and ask some basic questions such as: Will other dogs be boarded along with my dog? If so, how many and what types of dogs? Will there be children present? Will there be constant supervision (aside from short absences)? Is there a fenced yard? Where will my dog sleep? What type of experience do you have caring for dogs? What types of dogs have you owned? How long have you been boarding dogs at your home? Do you have references? Do you have insurance? Do you have a license or permit? (A permit or license is not always required for boarding, especially if there are three dogs or fewer). You can ask all of these questions over the phone or some in person. If you are going through a company, they may be able to answer the questions for you.
4. If you like what you hear, arrange to visit in person with your dog.
5. When you arrive, take a tour of the home and check out all the areas to which your dog will have access.
6. Stay for a few minutes and observe how the host interacts with your dog and how your dog interacts with the surroundings, including the yard.
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