Bryant Dog Photography Blog

From time to time, most every dog owner needs someone to take care of their dogs while they are away. Friends and family are not always available and you need to select a service provider. But do you know the best questions to ask when looking for a dog boarding service? Lori Myers from Every Dog’s Day in Frisco has some recommendations.

- May I take a tour of the facility?  Beware of any boarding facility that will not allow you to tour the area where your dog will actually be boarded, daycare areas, outside areas, etc.  Know where your dog will be boarded and what kinds of accommodations are offered i.e. crate, cage, kennel, suite, etc.

- What are the hours that the facility is staffed?  Educate yourself about what time the doors are locked and everyone goes home – and what time someone comes back the next morning.  If the facility is not staffed around the clock, ask about emergency protocol i.e. what happens if there is a fire in the middle of the night or if your dog gets sick afterhours.  There are a few premium facilities in DFW that are staffed 24/7/365.  If you choose to board your dog at the Vet Office, understand what hours the Vet is on-site or available.

-  Is there an outside area for potty breaks?  Without an outside area for potty breaks, your house-trained dog will hold his/her bladder as long as possible and eventually will have to eliminate indoors.

-  How often will my dog go outside for potty breaks?  The industry standard is only one or two potty breaks daily and additional potty breaks incur fees.  There are a few premium facilities in DFW that provide as many as six potty breaks daily.

-  What time is the first and last potty break daily?  Make sure you know how early and how late your dog will be taken outside to potty.

-  Do I need to provide my dog’s food?  It is easiest to feed all boarding dogs the same food; beware of the provider who insists on feeding your dog the “house kibble” unless the “house kibble” is exactly what your dog eats each day.  Better providers will ask you to bring your dog’s regular food – kibble or otherwise – so your dog remains on his/her regular diet throughout their boarding stay.  Changing diets abruptly causes gastric upset and will create added stress (and likely diarrhea) for your dog while boarding.

- Can you administer my dog’s medications?  Is there an additional cost for medications?  Most facilities will administer medications in pill or tablet form while a select few will administer oral liquids and injections.  Additional fees typically are charged, so ask in advance.

-  Can my dog participate in daycare while boarded?  Is there an additional cost for my dog to participate?  Dogs who are social will enjoy participating in group play while being boarded; play time offers a fun diversion and exercise.  When comparing costs, be sure to know how much daycare will cost if you choose to have your dog participate.

- What other services are available for my dog while boarded?  Many facilities offer private play time, special treats, and fun activities for your dog while boarded.  You may choose to create a vacation for your dog that rivals your own!

Choosing the best place to board your dog is an important decision! Thanks to Lori at Every Dog’s Day for these suggestions!