How to Choose the Best Dog Boarding Location
When you need someone to look after your dog while you’re at work, traveling, or busy with other commitments, finding a nearby facility or pet sitter is crucial. But it’s not just about being close—there are many other factors to consider to ensure your dog is in the best possible care.
This guide will help you understand what to look for when choosing a dog boarding facility, in-home sitter, or other care options in your area or where you plan to travel. Use this checklist to find the perfect spot that matches your dog’s personality, activity level, and needs.
Checking the Neighborhood
Start by considering the area around the boarding facility. Choose a location away from pet stores, dog parks, or other places that attract lots of animals. These areas might stress your dog or lead to unwanted behaviors.
Also, think about the noise level. Loud sounds from things like sirens, garbage trucks, or construction can be overwhelming. Visit the location at different times of the day to see if any noises might bother your dog.
Talk to people who live or work nearby to find out if there have been any recent changes, like new construction, that might affect the area. Look beyond just how the place looks from the outside and consider the overall environment.
Evaluating the Building’s Design
The design and layout of the boarding facility matter a lot. Make sure there are enough open spaces for your dog to play and relax. The building should be easy to move around in, especially if your dog is older or has mobility issues.
Check if the emergency exits are clearly marked and easy to get to in case of an emergency. The facility should be clean, well-lit, and have good ventilation to keep your dog healthy and comfortable.
Looking Into Staff Experience
The people who run the boarding facility are key to your dog’s well-being. Ask about their experience and training. Staff who understand dog behavior and know how to handle different temperaments will ensure your dog’s safety and happiness.
It’s also important that the staff know basic first aid for dogs in case of emergencies.
Checking Out the Amenities
The amenities at the boarding facility can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort. Look for individual sleeping areas that give your dog privacy and help reduce stress. Regular exercise routines and opportunities to interact with other dogs are also important for your dog’s physical and emotional well-being.
Considering Special Care Needs
If your dog has special needs, such as a specific diet, medical conditions, or behavioral issues, make sure the facility can accommodate them. Ask about how they handle meal plans, medication, and other special requirements to ensure your dog receives the proper care.
Mapping Out the Distance
Once you’ve found a few places that seem like good options, think about how far they are from your regular destinations, like work, your child’s school, or the vet. Use maps to check driving distances and plan for traffic delays. The location should be convenient, especially if you’re dropping off your dog during a busy morning or picking them up after a trip.
Finding the Best Spot for Overnight Boarding
If you’re looking for overnight boarding, think about locations that fit into your routine. For example, choose a place near a park or close to the airport if that’s where you’ll be heading. Use online map tools to compare distances and driving times to find the most convenient spot.
Make sure the location is easy to reach for quick drop-offs or pickups, especially if your schedule is tight. If you don’t use in-home pet sitters, pick a spot that’s easy for friends or family to get to if they need to help with transportation.
Planning for Transportation
After narrowing down your choices, consider how you’ll get to each facility. Are there safe sidewalks or bike paths? Is public transportation an option? Would ridesharing or taxis be practical in some situations?
Also, think about the driving routes. Avoid complex highway merges or busy intersections that could cause delays. Try driving these routes during peak times to see if there are any traffic issues that could make your trip longer.
Considering Nearby Amenities for Overnight Stays
If you’re boarding your dog while you’re away overnight, look for a facility close to your hotel or vacation activities. This makes it easy to drop off your dog when you arrive and pick them up when you leave.
Check if there are any parks, trails, or dog-friendly shops nearby that could keep your dog entertained during longer stays. Choose a facility that allows you to visit your dog easily without taking long detours.
Proximity to Emergency Vet Hospitals
It’s not something we like to think about, but emergencies can happen. That’s why it’s important to choose a boarding facility close to a 24/7 emergency veterinary hospital. Good facilities will have strong connections with local emergency vets to ensure your dog gets quick care if needed.
Map out the location of each boarding facility in relation to nearby emergency vet hospitals. Choose a place that’s ideally 10-15 minutes away to reduce the risk if your dog needs urgent medical care. Confirm with the facility which emergency hospitals they use regularly.
Preparing for Weather and Natural Disasters
Think about potential weather threats like tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, or wildfires, especially if the facility is near the edges of a city. Good boarding facilities will have strong shelters and backup power generators to keep your dog safe during extreme weather.
Choose a facility away from coastal areas that might flood. Ask about their emergency plans for storms or disasters. Find out how they handle power outages, transportation of pets if needed, and other emergency measures. Choose a facility that makes you feel confident about your dog’s safety.
How Well Do Local Pet Services Work Together?
Consider how the boarding facility fits with other pet services nearby, such as groomers, trainers, or vet clinics. Being close to these services can provide added support for your dog’s well-being.
Look for boarding options near other pet services, so if something unexpected comes up, help is nearby. This also allows for better coordination of care if needed.
Final Tips for Choosing Dog Boarding Based on Location
When picking a boarding facility, consider the neighborhood, proximity to your regular routes, and nearby pet services. Think about the facility’s design, staff experience, and special care needs. Always check for nearby emergency vet hospitals and consider potential weather threats.
By taking these factors into account, you can choose a reliable boarding facility that your dog will enjoy, whether close to home or while you’re traveling.