If the dog is to be excluded from the holiday it must be accommodated for the duration with a sympathetic friend or a boarding kennel. By law, boarding kennels in Britain must be licensed by the Local Authority. They are regularly inspected to see that they comply with the requirements of the Boarding Establishments Act, and in theory licensed premises should be satisfactory as regards hygiene, comfort, and safety. Even so, it is advisable to discuss potential holiday homes with other dog owners and listen to their experiences; the local veterinary surgeon usually has a list of kennels in the area, and while he will not recommend one at the expense of another, the mere fact that a name appears on the practice list can usually be taken as an inference that it is reasonable.
Having made a choice of a boarding kennel, make an appointment to view it. If the kennel does not welcome such inspection, opt for another place which does. A properly run kennel will insist on an up-to-date certificate of the dog's vaccination and will need information about particular diets, bitches coming into heat, or chronic infirmities and medications.
A good boarding kennel can be invaluable, and it will soon be apparent if the dog was well cared for and enjoyed his holiday; there may be other occasions when he will have to go back, during family illnesses or bereavements. A boarding kennel may be expensive -and early booking is essential for the major holiday seasons but the cost is well worth the knowledge that the family pet is secure and cared for.
Having made a choice of a boarding kennel, make an appointment to view it. If the kennel does not welcome such inspection, opt for another place which does. A properly run kennel will insist on an up-to-date certificate of the dog's vaccination and will need information about particular diets, bitches coming into heat, or chronic infirmities and medications.
A good boarding kennel can be invaluable, and it will soon be apparent if the dog was well cared for and enjoyed his holiday; there may be other occasions when he will have to go back, during family illnesses or bereavements. A boarding kennel may be expensive -and early booking is essential for the major holiday seasons but the cost is well worth the knowledge that the family pet is secure and cared for.
