The Top 5 Dangers of Dog Boarding and How to Avoid Them
When considering boarding your dog, it’s natural to have concerns about their safety and well-being. After all, your furry friend is a cherished member of the family. While reputable boarding facilities, like Pawplay, prioritize the safety and happiness of their guests, it’s important to be aware of potential dangers associated with dog boarding. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and choose the right facility for your pet.
Here are the top five dangers of dog boarding and how to mitigate them:
1. Illness and Infection
One of the most common risks in dog boarding is the spread of illnesses such as kennel cough, canine influenza, or gastrointestinal infections. With multiple dogs sharing spaces, even a minor lapse in hygiene can create a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.
How to Avoid It:
- Vaccinations: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all required vaccinations, including those for kennel cough and canine influenza. Most reputable facilities, like Pawplay’s boarding service, require proof of vaccination for all dogs.
- Cleanliness Standards: Tour the facility to evaluate its hygiene practices. Look for clean kennels, fresh water stations, and regular sanitation routines.
- Health Screenings: Choose a facility that requires health screenings for all dogs to ensure that sick pets aren’t introduced to the group.
At Pawplay, we maintain strict cleaning protocols and require health clearances to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all dogs.
2. Stress and Anxiety
Boarding can be stressful for dogs, especially those unaccustomed to new environments or being away from their owners. Stress can lead to changes in behavior, appetite, or even physical health issues.
How to Avoid It:
- Choose Familiarity: Bring along familiar items like your dog’s favorite toy, blanket, or bed to provide comfort and a sense of home.
- Check for Enrichment Activities: Facilities like Pawplay prioritize reducing stress by offering enrichment opportunities. At Pawplay, dogs enjoy custom indoor obstacles and two daily special events designed to keep them engaged and happy.
- Trial Run: Consider a short daycare session before committing to a longer boarding stay. This allows your dog to acclimate to the new environment.
Our western chic decor and family room setting at Pawplay create a calm, welcoming atmosphere that helps reduce anxiety for boarded dogs.
3. Injuries from Play or Fights
Dogs are social creatures, but not all interactions are smooth. In group settings, there is always the risk of dogs getting into scuffles or injuring themselves during play.
How to Avoid It:
- Supervised Play: Ensure the facility provides constant supervision by trained staff during group activities. At Pawplay, our team carefully monitors dogs during playtime, whether they’re navigating our custom indoor obstacles or enjoying the secure outdoor area.
- Dog Compatibility: Reputable facilities perform temperament assessments to group dogs with similar play styles and energy levels.
- Secure Spaces: Inspect the boarding facility’s play areas for safety features, such as secure fencing and non-slip flooring.
Pawplay’s trained staff and carefully designed play areas ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for every dog in our care.
4. Escape Risks
The thought of your dog escaping a boarding facility is every pet parent’s nightmare. Unfortunately, escape risks can arise from inadequate security measures or a dog’s anxiety-driven behavior.
How to Avoid It:
- Facility Security: Choose a boarding facility with secure enclosures, locked gates, and fenced outdoor areas. Pawplay’s outdoor area features secure fencing and artificial turf for added safety.
- Proper Identification: Ensure your dog wears a collar with ID tags and is microchipped with up-to-date contact information.
- Experienced Staff: Staff members trained to handle anxious or escape-prone dogs are essential.
At Pawplay, we prioritize safety with our secure outdoor area and vigilant staff, ensuring your dog is safe and sound throughout their stay.
5. Neglect or Inadequate Care
Not all boarding facilities provide the same level of care. In some cases, dogs may not receive enough attention, exercise, or personalized care, leading to boredom, stress, or even health issues.
How to Avoid It:
- Staff-to-Dog Ratio: Ask about the facility’s staff-to-dog ratio. A lower ratio ensures that each dog receives adequate attention.
- Daily Schedule: Look for a boarding facility with a structured daily schedule that includes playtime, meals, and rest periods. At Pawplay, dogs enjoy two special events daily in addition to ample play and rest time.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or your veterinarian.
Pawplay’s dedicated staff and structured daily schedule ensure that every dog in our care feels loved and well-cared-for.
Choosing the Right Boarding Facility
When selecting a boarding facility for your dog, prioritize safety, cleanliness, and individualized care. At Pawplay, we understand the trust you place in us when boarding your dog. Our luxury facility, western chic decor, and commitment to Christian values ensure that your pet is in loving and capable hands.
To learn more about our boarding services or to schedule a tour, visit our boarding page or contact us directly. Your dog’s comfort, safety, and happiness are our top priorities.