How to Observe Animals in Boarding Kennels

Bringing an animal to a boarding kennel when you need to travel involves an expense but can provide a good safe environment for your pet while you're away. Licensing kennels is done by the local municipality or county but there is a large difference in the quality of care that animals get from kennel to kennel. One way to decide whether a kennel is a good one is to observe the animals that are there.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog kennel
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Visit the kennel unannounced.

    • 2

      Check to see whether there is enough space in the kennel for all the animals. Do the animals seem comfortable and relaxed? Do they have room to move around other than "exercise time"?

    • 3

      Watch to see if the staff plays and interacts with the animals. Do the animals seem comfortable with the staff? Trusting? Do they seem happy and excited when a staff member approaches?

    • 4

      Observe the animals to see if they seem groomed and clean. Look to see if their living area is tidy and safe.

    • 5

      Take a look at older or shy animals. Do they have space to themselves or are they thrown in with the younger and more rambunctious animals?

    • 6

      Ask the staff about individuals animals. Try to discern whether the staff seems to understand and appreciate the varying needs and personalities of each animal.