Dog Hotels: When to Board your Best Friend

It is hot, and its summer!  Family and friends are inviting you to a lake spot, up to a cabin or hotel fun spot, and there is a note on the invitation: no pets allowed.   This is a hard choice!  I have always hated this type of request, and most likely, I would send my regrets.  My dogs are my family, and when I spend quality vacation time, I don't want to be away from them.  But sometimes, it is really necessary to accept these invitations, as you and your dog do need to have good and different experiences, and a vacation away may be the best thing for you both!

A great way to take off, and let your dogs have their own kind of fun, is the pet resort.  They are way different from the kennels of yesteryear, and much more affordable than you may think.  You will need to call a few weeks in advance, to confirm spot availability, and to find out requirements.  These may include:

• Full vaccination series from your vet, that is rabies, DHLPP, and Bordetella.  Sometimes, they will have other requirements, like a flea dip before you board, but that is not common.
• Full dog information regarding temperament, your contact details, and medications
• Specific vet information in case there is an emergency
• A brief in-house visit to meet your dog, and so that you can see the facility.

Most pet resorts have a series of inside dog runs, small cubicle like kennel areas with youth sized beds, different outside areas for large and small dogs, and a small grooming area for specialized grooming requests.  They are temperature controlled, and this is a great option as many kennels are outside, and very uncomfortable for house pets.  You can even find some exclusive resorts that have full adult beds, flatscreen TVs and special lighting.  You will usually have an option of using the webcam, so you can visit your pets on the internet, and see how they are doing in their new rooms.

This is a great way for your dog to enjoy some other dogs, have a great break from the normal every day things they are used to, and give them a more rounded attitude about new experiences.  Many resorts do doggie day care, so you should try the resort out, and let them have a break before you let them visit.