Rabbits are the best pets

Posted on: 17 June 2015

If you want to have a great time on your holiday, you probably want to make sure that your dog has a similarly great time. They need to be safe and stimulated while you're away, and in most cases this means finding appropriate pet boarding.

Most younger dogs take to boarding kennels like a duck to water, but when your beloved pooch is getting on in years, there are other things you need to consider to ensure your pet is comfortable. So how exactly do you find the most appropriate accommodation for your aged animal?

Not All Boarding Kennels Are the Same

Just like accommodation for humans, there's a lot of variety when it comes to boarding kennels, with a variety of prices to match. A young, robust dog will probably be fine with something more basic, just like young people who think nothing of staying in a basic hostel. This is not appropriate for older dogs, and you should ask any potential kennel if they have special facilities to cater for older dogs.

This usually involves raised bedding, so the dog's joints are not strained when getting in and out of bed. There should also be a separate outdoor exercise area, or at least a special exercise time for older dogs. It's not as though older dogs are antisocial, but they don't often appreciate their energetic younger counterparts demanding attention and wanting to play.

Ask Your Vet

If you're having trouble locating a boarding kennel with appropriate facilities, or are having trouble narrowing it down, then you can simply ask your vet. Your vet will know the accommodation options in your local area, and also has the advantage of knowing your animal's medical history. This means that they will be able to suggest a kennel that has experience in dealing with a dog of your pet's age, as well as having the experience to deal with any specific medical conditions your pet might have.

Whether you go with your vet's recommendation or with a place of your own choosing, make sure the kennel has your vet's contact details in the unlikely event of a medical emergency.

The At-Home Option

If you truly believe that your older dog is not suited to a boarding kennel, then you might want to try to let them stay at home. They will be unsettled by your absence, and yet any stress will be minimised by being in familiar surroundings. Ask a friend or family member if they would be able to stay in your home while you're on holiday. This ensures that your dog can stick to their usual routine with regards to meals and exercise, and can sleep in their own bed each night.

You're going to have an amazing time on holiday, but of course you'll have an even better time when you know that your beloved senior pet is being well looked after. For more tips or to start comparing your options, contact pet boarding facilities like Cottage Kennels & Cattery.