As caring and conscientious owners, it is always our intention to care for our pets ourselves.

However, sometimes situations arise where we have no choice but to seek out temporary alternative care arrangements for our pets. Placing an animal into boarding is considered to offer the best quality of love and attention for any pet since you will be leaving experienced professionals in charge. However, if you have never had to put your pet into a boarding facility in Cleveland, TN, you probably have a number of different questions about what you (and he) can expect to happen while you are separated.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear about pet boarding and of course, those all-important answers!

Will My Pet Have to Share Space with Other Animals?

This is undoubtedly one of the first concerns that owners have when they are considering pet boarding for the first time. Rest assured that each animal has their own space for sleeping and eating. In fact, many have different 'grades' of accommodation depending on what you want for your pet and your budget. Some go as far as having mini luxury 'apartments' for pets with proper beds and flat-screen TVs! However, in addition to their private space, most boarding facilities will also have communal areas where pets can congregate and socialize. Whether or not you allow your pet to make use of these areas is up to you. However, if you wish for your pet to have 1-1 exercise and playing time, you may have to see if your chosen facility can accommodate this. You may also be required to pay extra for the privilege.

What Will My Pet Eat while Boarding?

Food is an essential part of your pet's care, and veterinarians recommend that you don't change from his usual brand or product when you place your pet into a boarding facility. This is because it can take some time for your pet's digestive system to adjust and in the meantime, he may experience issues with bloating, abdominal pain, and bowel movements. Often, by the time your pet has adjusted to the new food, it is time to take him home again

When you check out potential boarding facilities, ask them what food they currently provide and, if it isn't the brand you already offer, if you can bring your pet's food from home. This is something you may have to do automatically if your pet is on any sort of special diet for his health.

My Pet Needs Medication? Who Will Administer It?

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a professional boarding facility is that the staff that looks after your pet should have the necessary experience to be able to administer your pet's medication on your behalf while you are away. This is something that you should clarify with each facility when deciding where your pet is going to stay. Remember to package your pet's medication, medical notes, and any instructions into a clear wallet or bag before you go, clearly labeled with his name. This will help with organization at your boarding facility.

What Will Happen if My Pet Gets Sick while I Am Away?

A boarding facility should provide regular updates on the health and condition of your pet if you call to ask. However, they should also immediately get in touch with you should your precious pet become unwell. Most professional boarding facilities have either an on-site or on-call veterinarian or links to a nearby veterinary practice. This means that your pet will be in safe hands while you are away.

Do I Need to Do Anything to Prepare My Pet?

Since there are normally a number of animals in boarding at any one time, your chosen service will probably have a number of requirements surrounding vaccinations. These are for the safety of your pet as well as others staying in the facility at the same time. Most will need to see up-to-date vaccination certificates for all core vaccinations, plus may have individual requirements based upon location, length of stay, etc. It is essential that you check these with your chosen facility before you book your pet in.

Can I Bring Some Things from Home to Make My Pet Comfortable?

Your boarding service staff will want your pet to feel as happy and as at home as possible. As such, you will normally be welcome to bring a few items from homes such as his bed, his favorite blanket or toy, or even an item of clothing with your scent on it.

If you are putting your pet into boarding and have more questions about the process, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our experienced and compassionate vets in Cleveland, TN by calling us at (423) 479-4760.