For many owners, boarding their pet is an entirely new experience.

If you haven't boarded your pet before, you probably have an abundance of questions. This is excellent; asking questions is one of the best ways to find out what a boarding facility in Pelham, AL is truly like and whether or not they are the right place for your pet to be while you are temporarily apart.

We have compiled this list of some of the most important questions that you should ask your boarding facility before you agree to board your pet.

How Far in Advance Do I Need to Book?

Although you may not always know that you are going to need a boarding facility well in advance, it is prudent to remember that many boarding facilities are booked up weeks and even months in advance. Certain times of the year, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Spring Break are considered high-demand times for kennels and other boarding services so the more notice you can give, the more likely you are to be able to secure the dates you want for your pet. Some boarding facilities will also require you to leave a deposit to secure your pet's space.

Where Will My Dog Be Staying?

All animals should be given their own, individual accommodations for the duration of their stay. This is somewhere where they can eat, drink, sleep and relax without seeing other pets in the facility. Each space should have enough room for your pet to move around and empty their bladder/bowels away from their sleeping and eating areas. Cat accommodation should have an individual litterbox for each living quarter. The area should also be well ventilated and ideally, have plenty of natural light.

What Activities Are Provided for My Pet?

No owner likes to think of their pet languishing in their accommodation, bored and alone. Boarding facilities should provide a series of different activities during the day including playtime, walks, and more. Ask your boarding service in Pelham, AL exactly what they will offer for your pet to keep her physically and mentally active during her stay. This includes things like walking too.

What Will My Pet Eat while in Your Care?

Nutrition is a vital part of your pet's care and you will want to feel confident about what your pet is eating while he is boarded. It isn't normally recommended to change your pet's food when they go into boarding since it is only temporary. Therefore, if your chosen facility can't offer the brand of food you usually give him, you should make sure that they are happy for you to provide food to be served.

What Happens if There Is a Medical Emergency with Your Pet?

Despite every effort being made to keep your pet safe and healthy, sometimes medical emergencies still arise. It helps owners feel reassured if they know what steps their chosen boarding facility will take if the unthinkable occurs. If you choose a boarding facility based in an animal hospital like our own, you can benefit from trained veterinarians on site. However, if you opt for a standalone boarding service, you will need to ask which vets they use or if they will get in contact with your usual professional.

Similarly, if your pet needs regular medication you will want to check that there are staff who are trained and experienced in administering this on your behalf. You will need to provide the drugs yourself, as well as detailed information about the dosage and timing your pet needs them given to her.

What Are the Entry Requirements for My Pet?

All good boarding facilities will require animals entering the facility to pass strict requirements in line with their health and safety policies. This primarily relates to vaccinations and other preventative care. However, there may also be requirements relating to parasite prevention too, such as physical examination for ticks and fleas, or a check for worms. Some boarding services will also insist on pets being microchipped before they are allowed to be boarded. By ensuring that your pet is as healthy as possible, he will breeze through the entry requirements without the need for any delays.

If you have further questions about boarding in Pelham, AL, or about our reputable and professional boarding service, in particular, our friendly and experienced team would be delighted to help. Please call our animal hospital at (205) 988-3559 today.