Paws and Claws Pet Resort is an upscale boarding facility located just outside of Girard, Pa. Here your pet will have its own "condo," including personal outside area. Dogs will also have the opportunity to take part in play sessions or a spa treatment.
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Make Reservations
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Call the facility and make reservations for your pet. It is useful to know which services you are interested in and what type of experience you want for your pets before contacting staff. There are a few questions you may want to have the answers to.
If you are housing multiple dogs, do you want them to share a condo or each have their own? Sharing is less expensive, and depending on the relationship between your dogs, may be soothing to your pets.
Do you want your pets to engage in play sessions? Play sessions can be given with staff or with other dogs, depending on your dog's temperament. There will be an additional charge for each play session scheduled.
Do you want your dog groomed before you pick it up? There is an on-site full service grooming facility, referred to as the spa.
Finally, consider if there are any other pets that you need cared for. The facility will house nearly any type of pet, but has set guidelines and prices for dogs, cats, ferrets and rabbits.
If you wish to tour the facility before making your reservations, you will need to come on Tuesday or Wednesday between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. No appointment is needed to view the facility.
Paperwork and Preparation
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Paws and Claws requires a bit of legwork on your part before you bring in your pet.
The resort has a registration form that must be filled out. The registration form not only gives the resort staff emergency contact information for yourself and your veterinarian, but allows you to dictate care for your dog. Items such as feeding instructions and special instructions are included on this form.
You will also need to be able to submit proof that your pet is up-to-date on all immunizations, including Bordatella, sometimes referred to as kennel cough. Without documentation of these shots your pet will not be allowed in the facility.
Check with your veterinarian ahead of time to ensure that your pet's shots are current if you are unsure. Also remember that Bordatella shots are not considered routine and are normally only administered if you are planning to board your dog.
You may also do a flea check a few days before dropping your dog off. Your dog will be accepted with fleas, but will be given a flea treatment immediately, which you will be billed for.
Drop off Day
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A checklist may be helpful on the day you drop your pet off, as there are several items you will want to have with you in addition to your pet.
You should have copies of all paperwork in hand, even if they have been emailed or faxed ahead of time. Human nature dictates that occasionally things will go wrong, and it will go much smoother if you have a spare copy.
You will also want to bring ample amounts of food and treats for your dog. The resort will have kennel food available, but abrupt changes in your dog's diet can upset its stomach. Have the food in a container clearly marked with your dog's name or your family name.
You will also want to gather up and bring any items that may make your dog feel more at home, such as favorite chew toys or your dog's crate. The only thing the facility will not allow you to bring from home is bedding. The resort will supply fleece bedding for a minimal fee, but does not allow bedding to be brought from home in an effort to keep out fleas.
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