Boarding facilities do not come with a standard star rating system like hotels do, which means a little homework goes a long way before you hand over your pet’s leash and head out of town. At Paw Haven, we know how important your pet’s health and wellness is to you, even when you’re on vacation. So, finding the right boarding facility is key. The good news is that most reputable facilities will welcome your questions. If they do not, that tells you something too. Here are our top questions to ask before you book.
- What vaccines do you require?
This should be at the top of your list for every facility. With lots of pets sharing one space, strict vaccine requirements are how the facility keeps everyone healthy. Rabies, distemper, and Bordetella are standard for dogs, and cats should be current on rabies and distemper as well. Some facilities may also require the canine flu vaccine or fecal testing depending on their local risk factors. Whatever the requirements are, make sure your pet is up to date before your trip sneaks up on you and you’re rushing to make an appointment for vaccines. - What will my pet’s accommodations look like?
Some facilities offer private rooms with beds and enrichment; others use kennels or runs. If you have multiple pets, ask whether they can stay together, which can help reduce stress. Whatever the setup, each animal (or bonded pair) should have their own dedicated space with enough room to move around comfortably, good ventilation, and separate areas for sleeping and bathroom use.
You know your pet best, so take time to look at the accommodations and see if this is something that would work for them. High-energy breeds may do better in a place with runs, while smaller, more anxious breeds may feel safer in a smaller space. - What does a typical day look like?
Make sure to ask how often pets are taken out for exercise, enrichment, playtime, or just some human interaction. A bored, under-stimulated pet is a stressed pet. If dogs have group play time, ask about supervision and group sizes and if there are any behavior tests prior to a dog joining the group. - Can they accommodate my pet’s food and medications?
Switching food during a boarding stay is hard on a pet’s stomach, so make sure the facility is willing to serve whatever your pet eats at home. If your pet takes daily medication, ask whether staff are trained to administer it correctly, especially if it involves something like an injectable medication or a tricky pill routine. - What happens if something goes wrong?
Every boarding facility should have a clear plan for weather and medical emergencies, including a relationship with a nearby veterinary clinic for situations where they cannot reach you. Ask who they call and how quickly. If your pet has special needs, whether that is mobility issues, a chronic condition, or anxiety, make sure the staff is fully equipped to handle it. - Can I take a tour first?
Any facility worth booking will say yes. Seeing the space in person gives you a much better sense of cleanliness, staff demeanor, and whether the environment feels calm or chaotic. Trust your gut when you walk in.
Plan Ahead, Especially for Busy Seasons
Popular boarding facilities book up fast around the holidays, spring break, and summer travel season. Once you find a place you feel good about and trust with your pet, do not wait to reserve your dates.
If you need to get your pet’s vaccines updated or records in order before an upcoming stay, we are here to help. Call us at (863) 334-0158 or book online at pawhavenvet.com. We will make sure they are ready for their next boarding vacation.
