Finding the Right Boarding Kennel
Whether for business or leisure, there will be times when your dog can't accompany you on your travels. Of course, your best option in this situation is to leave the dog with a responsible friend or relative with whom your shepherd is comfortable. If this is not possible, you'll need to look into some alternatives.
The facility that is most often used by pet owners in this case is a boarding kennel. Boarding kennels range from five-star facilities that offer private suites for your dog, couches, televisions, massages, pool time, lessons in agility, and much more. Whatever you want for your shepherd while you are away, this facility will be able to provide it.
The next level of boarding kennels are well-run facilities that don't have quite as many frills and extras as the more elaborate boarding kennels; however, this level still offers services to meet your shepherd's needs and is more moderately priced. Some kennels may offer housing in an indoor/outdoor run giving the dog the ability to go in and out at will. Other kennels may keep the dogs in large, roomy indoor kennel areas; however, each dog must be taken out to relieve himself, exercise, and play. Options that cost extra could include leash walking for thirty minutes, a special play session, or feeding a particular diet. Still other kennels may offer only the basics: a clean, dry place to sleep and an outdoor exercise pen.
Boarding facilities do not allow puppies to be boarded unless they have received a complete course of puppy vaccinations, which usually isn't until the puppy has reached fourteen to sixteen weeks of age. The reason for this is that it is easy to unwittingly expose a vulnerable puppy to a lethal virus.
Before you make reservations for your shepherd to be boarded, visit several facilities that have received good referrals from your veterinarian, friends, and other dog owners. Look for immaculate runs and helpful staff. Ask questions about how often the dogs are exercised, what types of services the facility offers, if your shepherd can be fed his regular diet prepared according to your instructions (if you provide the food), what the facility's fees are and how they charge for add-on services, and pick-up and drop-off times.
If you are uneasy about anything concerning the boarding facility, or if the operators can't answer your questions to calm your apprehension, do not board your shepherd at this facility. Go with your gut instincts and find another location.
