Dog kennels are a great convenience for dog owners unable to take pets with them on a trip. Kennels give owners the peace of mind of knowing that their dog is safe, fed and cared for. However, there are no national standards for dog boarding kennels in the United States, and regulations vary widely by state. It is always a good idea to visit a kennel if possible before boarding your dog there.
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General Standards
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Though animal boarding statutes vary by locale, most areas provide similar basic guidelines for boarding kennels. Facilities must be humane environments that meet an animal's basic needs for waterproof, temperature-controlled shelter; overall cleanliness and health; adequate space; and access to food, water and exercise.
Licensing Requirements
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Only nine U.S. states require kennel licensure at the state level. Connecticut and Florida require a boarding license, while Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Maine and Pennsylvania require boarding and shelter licenses. Michigan has a state shelter registration form, and Missouri has an animal boarding statute. Local licensure requirements vary by city and county. To find this information for your locale, contact your city's planning or environmental health department.
Boarding Facilities Blueprints
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For those interested in building a kennel, blueprints for sound kennel design are available from a number of sources, including architectural firms and animal care organizations. You can usually purchase blueprints through the organization's website. Kennel blueprints are available for a number of sizes, but in general, accommodate 10, 12, 16 or 20 kennel slots. If you want to create a custom kennel tailored to specific needs, you can consult with an architect.
Evaluating a Kennel
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If you are able to visit dog kennels before selecting one for your pet, there are several factors to evaluate. Find out what licenses and certifications the kennel and staff hold and whether the business is registered with a pet care regulatory association. The overall atmosphere of the kennel should be clean, well-lit, well-ventilated and adequately spacious. Staff should be friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and should gladly answer any questions about the facility. Ask about feeding and exercise policies, and make sure the kennel requires that all animals are current on vaccinations, especially bordetella, or kennel cough. Also, inquire about veterinary care and emergency procedures.
Pet Care Organizations
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Pet owners should look for kennels registered with recognized pet care organizations, such as the Pet Care Services Association or American Boarding Kennel Association. These organizations have health and safety requirements for member businesses, and the PCSA provides tools such as evaluation standards and kennel floor plans. Also, these organizations offer clients some recourse for filing a complaint against a member kennel.
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