Different Types of Boarding Kennels

All good boarding kennels have the same basic criteria: A clean and healthy safe place with enough space for the dogs to move around. Most kennels take in dogs that have been vaccinated and do not display behavioral issues. Boarding kennels services vary to suit pet owners needs. The services can range from basic pet sitting to more luxurious treatments.

  1. Traditional Kennels

    • This is a kennel with basic services. It is usually for owners who need to leave their dog somewhere for a number of days. The dogs are locked up and left in cages with ample space to move around. The kennel might include an outdoor section for your pet to get exercise.

    Day Care Kennels

    • These are designed for those busy owners who don't want to leave their dog unattended for long periods of the day. Usually these kennels employ someone to walk, monitor and keep your dog company in some way. Day care kennels are considered to be a good place to encourage dogs to socialize, as well as to give them all the exercise they need for the day. Not all dogs are suited for day care centers, as some are too aggressive or anxious to be left in an environment with other dogs.

    Spa Kennels

    • These are similar to human spas and massage resorts. Pets are pampered, given massages, groomed and given treats. There is also television, music and swimming available. Boarding kennels of this caliber can be expensive. Whether pets benefit from this treatment is still being debated, according to a New York Times article, "A Dog's Life, Upgraded". However, these types of kennels provide comfort to the owner who knows their pet's needs are being attended.

    Boarding School

    • Dogs are boarded for a short time at a kennel to go through obedience training. Successful obedience training requires that the owner apply repetitive reinforcement to commands, particularly at the beginning. These kennels allow your dog to go through the process with a trainer and learn basic obedience.

    Specialized Kennels

    • There are kennels that specialize in certain areas such as: caring for older dogs, puppies or specific breeds like poodles or cocker spaniels. The benefits of these kennels are that they take into consideration details such as breed temperament and health. Also, staff might have experience with specific needs of the dog under their charge.