Sure, we’d love for you to choose us at Canine Courtyard.  But the most important thing is that your dog is in a safe place that you are happy with.  Here are a few tips and things to look for in choosing a kennel.

1.       Exercise & Play – Find out where your dog will get his or her exercise.  Many kennels will simply put them on a leash and walk them for a couple of minutes and send them right back to the kennel.  Some places will charge extra for more time.  Find out if the dogs get “Outside” time.  Some indoor facilities never take the dogs outside at all and only have an indoor play area.  This can cause trouble with dogs who are housetrained and don’t want to “do their business” indoors.  Fresh air is as important for a dog as it is for us.  Would you want to be cooped up in a strange place and not get to see the sun for a week?

2.       Fencing - Look for a high strong fence in the play area.  And be sure the dogs are never taken outside that fenced yard.  Dogs should never be removed from the property without your permission.

3.       Comfort – Be sure your kennel is air conditioned and heated.  Texas has some extreme temperature changes, sometimes within the same day.  The kennel must be able to regulate the temperature wherever dogs are housed.

4.       Price – Be sure you know what you are getting for the rate quoted.  Whether you choose an all-inclusive kennel, or a place you pick “a la carte” services – it should be clear how much play time, food, and exercise your pet will get.  Also, be sure to find out the checkout policy.  Most kennels have a checkout time just like hotels, and you will usually be charged extra for late checkouts.

5.       Daycare – If your kennel offers daycare playgroups, will your boarded dog be allowed to participate?  Is there an extra fee to join in the fun?

6.       Special Needs – Does your dog have specials needs?  Does he have allergies, need medications, or have special dietary restrictions?  Any kennel should be willing to handle your special requests.  Also, find out if you will be charged extra for this. Will the kennel allow you to bring your own food?  If not, or if you prefer not to – what kind of food do they provide?  Will they offer food twice a day, or is there only one feeding time?  Remember that a change of food and/or feeding schedule can cause your pet tummy troubles – both as he adjusts to the kennel, and as he adjusts back to your home.

7.       Cleanliness – Be sure the enclosures and play areas are clean and free from debris.  Ask when and how often enclosures are cleaned and where your dog is kept while they clean each run.  Some places will power wash while your dog is still in the enclosure.  This can scare some smaller or more timid pets.

8.       Care & Service – Do the staff seem like they really love animals?  Are they friendly and providing you good service?  Be sure you feel comfortable with the people who are working at the kennel.  It’s easy to tell if someone really cares about taking care of your dog.  Don’t settle for less.

9.       Vaccinations – Be sure your kennel asks you for proof of vaccinations.  This should include Bordetella (Kennel Cough), which is not a serious disease, but can spread rapidly and cause your pet discomfort.  If you aren’t asked to show records, chances are that no one else is.  Be sure that health is the #1 priority wherever you board.

10.    Emergency Care – Find out the policy on emergency care.  Is the kennel willing to call your own vet if you prefer that to their on-call vet?