Kennels for the Discriminating Dog
by Gideon Laston

It’s not easy to say goodbye, even if it’s just for a short time. That’s why so many pet owners struggle with the proposition of leaving their beloved dogs at a kennel. The irony is, that modern dog kennels are so well appointed; it’s probably much harder on the pet owner than it is on the dog.

Whether it’s for a quick out-of-town business excursion or an extended vacation, leaving the family dog behind can be a traumatic experience. Finding a trusted friend or family member to care for your pet in his or her own home is the best scenario, but it’s simply not always an option. The other choice is to leave your dog at a kennel.

Every kennel is not created equally, and a responsible pet owner will shop around to find the best service and accommodations. If your dog is the high-maintenance sort that loves extra frills and requires lots of personal attention, a run-of-the-mill kennel simply won’t do. Regular kennels, on the other hand, provide the necessities without many luxuries.

If you’re only going to be gone for a day or two, this type of kennel will be fine for providing the basics: food, exercise and a warm, safe place to sleep. If you were going to be away for a week or more, however, it would be wise to ensure that your dog receives the same sort of attention that he or she is used to.

Happiness is in the Details

Always check out the kennel thoroughly before you decide to leave your dog behind. There is a list of must-have prerequisites that should be considered necessary elements in your pet’s home away from home:

Space: The kennel must have sufficient space for exercising the dog outdoors, and have ample indoors space so your dog will not feel claustrophobic.

Cleanliness: All areas of the kennel should look and smell clean and fresh. Check the bedding where other dogs are sleeping. Avoid dirty, smelly kennels.

Well Ventilated: Make sure that there is good ventilation with a clean, fresh air. Be sure that the temperature is not too hot, or too cold. Outdoor areas should have shady spots available to provide a cool resting place during outside playtime.

Light and Bright: Sufficient lighting will make your dog’s overall experience a little brighter. If the kennel has a dark or gloomy atmosphere, keep shopping. Try to choose a kennel that has lots of windows for plenty of natural sunlight.

Packing For Your Pet

Try to make the transition as painless as possible for your pet. There are some things that you can bring along to make your dog feel a little more at home:

* A small, beloved toy for chewing or just to keep close at hand.

* You dog’s water dish or food bowl

* A small piece of clothing that has your smell

* If your dog prefers a certain brand of food or is on a particular diet, bring it along and insist that the kennel use it

* Your dog’s leash, so that he or she will feel more comfortable during scheduled walks

In addition to these dog kennel supplies, you’ll need to provide the kennel with your out-of-town contact information, the name and number of your veterinarian and any medications or vitamins that should be taken by your pet.

Last, and certainly not least, provide the kennel staff with any special diet requests or requirements. Give this information to the staff in writing, so every employee will have access to your dog’s specific needs.

Leaving your dog at a kennel is a big decision, and the choice of kennels should never be taken lightly. Take the time to choose a well-appointed dog kennel and, if necessary, take steps to bring the kennel up to your, and your pet’s, standards.

Contributor Gideon Laston is a writer for numerous popular Internet sites, on product review and dog product subjects.