People love their animals, but, unfortunately, dogs must sometimes spend time in a kennel facility. Whether they are military or police dogs, family companions, dogs bred for sale or dogs awaiting homes in an animal shelter, they deserve quality living conditions. The AWA (Animal Welfare Act) was established in 1966 and has set forth a list of regulations concerning the humane treatment of kenneled animals. When searching for a kennel, be sure to visually check the facility for cleanliness and safety. Look for sharp edges in your animal's enclosure and ask questions concerning temperature, humidity and ventilation.
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Temperature
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Kenneled animals should not be subjected to the stress of harsh temperatures in their immediate living environment. They must be housed with an indoor temperature of not less than 45 degrees and not more than 85 degrees. This will help ensure their health and well-being while being kenneled. Specific short haired breeds, animals that are sick, aged, or very young may not be able to tolerate the 45 degree or 85 degree temperature limits. A vet can certify the need for additional limits. Additional limits are done on an individual basis and can be achieved by using dry bedding, fans, solid resting boards, extra ventilation or other methods approved by the certifying vet.
Humidity
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The inside relative humidity of the dog's living environment must be kept at a range of 30 percent to 70 percent. This is for both comfort and health reasons. The less stress caused to the animal, the less susceptible they become to disease, illness and infection.
Ventilation
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Kennel ventilation is very important, especially because of kennel cough, odor and ammonia levels. Proper ventilation depends on factors such as the type of cage used, the size of the animal and the circulation system's maintenance. Solid stainless steel cages circulate less air than open wire cages. Larger dogs put off more heat than smaller breeds and therefore require more air flow. The ventilation system needs to be properly maintained, and to ensure hair and dander are properly captured, the filters need to be checked regularly. Adequate air flow ventilation is 10 to 15 room air changes per hour. Isolated, quarantined and soiled areas must be ventilated to the outside to prevent inside air corruption.
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