Animal Boarding Facilities
Animal boarding facilities, unlike animal shelters, are not subject to annual inspections by a state agency and instead are only subject to inspection if a complaint is filed*. There is also no database to search animal boarding facilities’ past transgressions (if they exist). This means, it is 100% up to the animal guardian to be their animal’s advocate and do lots of research when considering an animal boarding facility.
Here are some things to consider and ask animal boarding facilities you might be considering using:
- What vaccinations are required and are guardians required to show proof of vaccination?
- Most facilities say certain vaccines are required, but some may not make customers show proof.
- How are the animals housed?
- Consider the size of the kennel, ventilation, climate controlled, whether there is indoor and outdoor access, etc.
- How many hours a day are the animals in a kennel?
- What does the animal’s daily itinerary look like?
- What time do they get fed, walked, exercised, treats, nap time, etc.
- Will your animal share any spaces with other animals?
- Many facilities have shared play areas for recreation.
- How often are kennels cleaned and sanitized?
- How are the kennels and fences secured?
- Are the owners and staff certified?
- While there are no required certifications for an animal boarding facility, there are animal handling and care training programs, like Fear Free, that teach caretakers better animal handling.
- What is the caretaker to animal ratio?
- What food will be provided to the animal and how many times a day are they fed?
- How often is drinking water changed?
- Can the facility accommodate animals with special needs?
- Special needs can include daily injections, medications, senior-related mobility issues, etc.
- How do you handle animals who have boarding stress or anxiety?
- Are there spaces for animals who are triggered by loud noises or too many people/dogs?
- Is there web camera access?
- What spaces does the camera show?
- What is the facility’s emergency plan?
- Are staff on-site 24/7?
- Some boarding facilities have staff on-site day and night, while others leave the animals unattended for a certain number of hours.
- Are there any medically-trained personnel on staff or do they have an emergency vet available?
- What are the communication procedures if my animal becomes sick or is injured?
Remember to read reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook.
*We encourage you to reach out to your elected state representatives to enact regulations and inspections for animal boarding facilities.
Animal Grooming Facilities
Animal grooming facilities are also not subject to inspections by a state agency and instead are only subject to inspection if a complaint is filed. There is also no database to search animal grooming facilities’ past transgressions (if they exist). This means, it is 100% up to the animal guardian to be their animal’s advocate and do lots of research when considering an animal grooming facility and individual groomer.
Here are some things to consider and ask animal grooming facilities and individual groomers you might be considering using:
- How long has the business been in operation?
- Can you see the grooming space?
- How does it look? How does it smell? Are there clean workstations, sturdy tables, tubs, and pet-friendly products? Ask yourself: Am I comfortable leaving my pet here?
- What services does the business provide? Do they have experience with your dog or cat’s breed and needs?
- Groomers should have the tools and knowledge to remove mats, trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth. Professional groomers can make you aware of certain health issues, like ear injections, skin issues or tooth decay.
- Certain breeds require certain grooming techniques. Make sure the facility and individual groomer knows how to properly handle your pet’s grooming needs.
- Where will my animal be housed while they are waiting for grooming, drying, or waiting for pick up?
- How long will my pet’s appointment take?
- Does the business have a first aid kit?
- Does the business carry insurance?
- Has the business or individual groomer ever been investigated by local Animal Control or another law enforcement agency for animal abuse or neglect?
- What is the business’ plan in case of an emergency?
- This includes natural disasters, fires, gas leaks, or a medical emergency or injury to your animal.
- What is the communication plan if your animal becomes unmanageable, sick, or injured?
- What steps are in place to ensure my pet’s safety?
- Find out what restraints they use, when they use them, and what safety measures are in place to prevent injuries or animal death.
- Are you allowed to stay and watch your pet’s grooming session?
- Don’t be surprised if the groomer says no, as your presence can sometimes cause more stress for your animal. However, some groomers may have cameras or one-way mirrors for you to observe the process.
- What is the business’ policy on aggressive or fearful animals?
- Does the business require animals to be vaccinated? Do they require clients to show proof of vaccinations?
- How long has the groomer who will be working on your pet been practicing? Do they have any certifications?
- Certifications like Fear Free teach better, more humane animal handling techniques.
- How many clients does each groomer typically have at one time?
- Do they stack multiple appointments?
Remember to read reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook.