How to Choose the Right Dog Boarding Facility

When you’re planning a vacation or going on a work trip, one of your biggest concerns as a dog parent is: “Where will my dog stay?” Choosing the right dog boarding facility is essential for your peace of mind and your pup’s comfort, safety, and happiness.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of selecting a trustworthy dog boarding facility, what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to prepare your dog for their stay.

Why Choosing the Right Boarding Facility Matters

Your dog isn’t just a pet—they’re family. A good boarding facility provides a safe, clean, and loving environment where your dog can thrive while you’re away. 

Making the right choice helps ensure:

• Proper care and supervision
• Consistent feeding, medication and sleep schedules
• Social interaction and exercise
• Reduced anxiety for both you and your dog

Types of Dog Boarding Facilities

Before selecting a facility, understand the types of dog boarding options available:

1. Traditional Kennels

These are structured facilities with individual cages or runs for each dog. This type of facility typically has wire front runs as opposed to the glass front suites like ours.

2. Pet Hotels or Luxury Boarding

This is the category you will find our facility. These boarding facilities are typically have higher-end options with amenities like suites, webcams, and spa services. Something to look out for is whether daycare is included in the boarding price. Our boarding rates included a full day of daycare, but some facilities upcharge for that service.

3. In-Home Boarding

Your dog stays at a sitter’s home, offering a more personal and home-like environment. This is a good option for dogs with anxiety that may be stressed in a boarding environment.

4. Veterinary Boarding

Boarding provided by a vet clinic, ideal for dogs with medical needs.

Each type has pros and cons depending on your dog’s personality, health, and your personal preferences.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Boarding Facility

Step 1: Start with Research

Begin by searching online for dog boarding facilities in your area. Read Google reviews, testimonials and information on the facility’s website.

Look for:

• Consistent 4-star+ ratings
• Positive mentions of cleanliness, staff, and dog happiness
• Responses from the business to both positive and negative reviews

Step 2: Ask for Recommendations

Ask your vet, local pet store, people you know in the industry or fellow dog parents for recommendations. Word of mouth is often the most reliable indicator of a good facility.

Step 3: Visit the Facility

We recommend touring the boarding facility before you drop your dog for their first stay. Schedule a walkthrough and bring a checklist:

• Is the facility clean and what are their cleaning procedures?
• Are dogs housed individually or together?
• Are outdoor play areas secure and clean?
• Are there designated areas for dogs of different temperaments?
• If your dog is not in daycare during the day, how often are they let out for bathroom breaks and exercise?
• Are the staff engaged and attentive to the dogs?

Step 4: Check Licensing and Certifications

Ensure the facility:

• Is licensed according to local laws
• Has trained their staff in dog behavior, basic first aid and proper dog handling techniques
• Follows safety protocols for emergencies and has policies for these situations in place

Step 5: Ask the Right Questions

Bring a list of questions when touring the facility:

• Are dogs supervised during playtime?
• How is aggressive behavior handled?
• How are feeding and medications administered?
• What happens if my dog gets sick?
• Do I receive updates during the stay if needed or requested?

Step 6: Observe Dog Interaction

If possible, observe how staff interact with dogs already at the facility. Are they affectionate? Calm? Do the dogs seem relaxed or anxious? 

This step is why we designed our facility the way we did. We want to be transparent and open with every client that comes through our doors and trusts us to care for their dog. 

When you enter our lobby, there is a wall of glass so you can immediately see into the daycare room and see everything happening. We also have live webcams available so you can check in on your pup during the day and see them playing with their friends.

Step 7: Review Daily Routines during Boarding

Ask about the typical daily schedule:

• Wake-up and feeding times
• Nap or rest times if you want your dog to have one
• First and final let out routines

This will give you insight into whether the structure suits your dog’s energy level and habits.

Step 8: Check Accommodations

Look at the actual sleeping quarters. Things to consider:

• Are they climate controlled?
• Is bedding provided?
• Is water always available

Step 9: Consider Additional Services

Some boarding facilities offer extras that may improve your dog’s stay:

• Grooming or baths before pick-up
• Training options during your boarding stay
• Webcam access for owners

Step 10: Try a Trial Boarding Stay

Before a long trip, book an overnight trial stay to see how your dog adapts. Monitor behavior afterward. If your dog returns happy, healthy, and relaxed, it’s a good sign.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be cautious if you notice any of the following:

• Staff are reluctant to answer questions
• Facility looks unkempt or questionable cleanliness
• No emergency protocols are in place
• Lack of proper vaccination requirements
• Inability to take a tour of the facility and see boarding accommodations 

Preparing Your Dog for Their Boarding Stay

1. Visit the Facility Ahead of Time

A familiarization visit can ease your dog’s anxiety. We recommend bringing your dog in for a day of daycare before their stay for a temperament test and ensure its a good fit. The first day of daycare is free of charge at our facility so it will not cost you any extra.

2. Update Vaccinations

Ensure all vaccines are current, especially rabies, distemper/parvo and bordetella (kennel cough).

3. Pack the Essentials

• Food (dogs do best eating their normal food)
• Medications with instructions and in the original bottle/packaging from your veterinarian
• Favorite toy or blanket
• Any specific health needs your dog may have for their stay

4. Stay Calm During Drop-Off

Dogs feed off your energy. Keep goodbyes short, cheerful and fun.

What to Expect After Boarding

It’s normal for your dog to be tired or a little thirsty after boarding. Some dogs may act extra clingy or sleep a lot—this is a result of stimulation and excitement, not necessarily stress.

Monitor for signs of illness and give your pup a few days to settle back into their home routine. If you notice anything out of the ordinary always feel free to call ask the facility if anything was noted during their stay. 

We operate with full transparency and will always let you know right away if there is anything noteworthy during your dogs stay (good or bad). 

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Boarding Experience

• Book early during holidays or peak seasons, boarding books quickly
• Maintain your normal routine before and after boarding
• Communicate special instructions clearly
• Don’t forget to reward your pup with love, play, or treats after their stay

Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind for You and Your Pup

Choosing the right dog boarding facility requires time and research, but the payoff is huge. You’ll feel confident leaving your pup in safe hands, and your dog will be more comfortable and happy during your time apart.

Whether you’re boarding for a weekend getaway or an extended trip, finding a facility that meets your dog’s needs ensures you both have a worry-free and positive experience.

Remember: trust your instincts, ask plenty of questions, and always prioritize your dog’s well-being over convenience or cost.