Top Questions to Ask When Choosing a Dog Boarding Facility in Las Vegas

Choosing the right dog boarding facility is crucial to ensure your dog's well-being while you’re away. A well-chosen facility can provide a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment for your dog, ensuring they are well cared for in your absence. 

The key to making the right choice lies in asking the right questions. By asking the right questions you’ll get to know the facility’s practices, safety measures, and staff qualifications. You’ll be able to make an informed decision that aligns with your dog's needs and your peace of mind. In this article, we’re going to go over the top questions to ask when choosing a dog boarding facility so you can feel confident that your dog’s stay is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

What Are the Facility’s Qualifications and Certifications?

Before you even set foot in a dog boarding facility, verify its licensing and certifications. Facilities should meet local and state regulations, ensuring they adhere to standards that protect your pet’s health and safety. Look for facilities that display their licenses prominently and check if they are accredited by reputable organizations like the American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA) or the Pet Care Services Association (PCSA). 

The expertise of the staff is just as crucial as the facility’s certification. Ask about the qualifications and experience of those who will be directly caring for your dog. Staff should have training in pet care, behavior management, and emergency first aid. Many facilities employ certified pet groomers or veterinary technicians. Ensure that staff members are trained to handle dogs with special needs or medical conditions if that applies to your pet.

The facility’s reputation can be a telling indicator of the quality of care they provide. Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like Yelp, Google, and Facebook. Pay attention to recurring themes in customer feedback. 

What Are the Facility’s Safety Protocols?

Ask how they handle medical emergencies. A reputable facility should have a clear plan in place for dealing with accidents or sudden health issues. This plan should include immediate access to a veterinarian. Facilities often have partnerships with local vets or on-call services to provide prompt medical attention if needed. Confirm that staff are trained in first aid and CPR for pets.

Security is another critical aspect of safety. Assess the facility’s security measures to prevent escapes and ensure your dog remains safe. Look for secure fencing and gates that are high enough and sturdy enough to prevent your dog from jumping or digging out. Some facilities have additional security measures such as surveillance cameras or coded entry systems to monitor the premises continuously. Also, check if there is a protocol for supervising play areas to prevent altercations between dogs.

What Are the Health Requirements for Boarding?

Most boarding facilities require pets to be up-to-date on vaccinations to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. Common vaccinations include rabies, Bordetella (kennel cough), and distemper. Ask for a list of required vaccinations and ensure your dog meets these requirements before boarding. Some facilities might also require a recent health check from your vet. 

Inquire if the facility performs health assessments upon arrival. A thorough health screening helps identify any potential issues before they become problems. This process typically includes checking for signs of illness, parasites, or injuries. Some facilities have on-site veterinary staff or partnerships with local vets to conduct these screenings. 

What Are the Procedures for Managing Health Issues?

Ask about their procedures for administering medication and addressing special health needs. If your dog requires regular medication or has specific health issues, confirm that the facility can accommodate these needs. Staff should be trained in administering medications and managing health conditions. Ask about their protocol for handling unexpected health issues and whether they have access to emergency veterinary care.

Be sure to discuss food provisions and dietary accommodations as well. Some facilities provide their own food, while others allow you to bring your dog’s preferred diet. If your dog has dietary restrictions or allergies, make sure the facility can accommodate these needs. Ask about their policy on feeding schedules and whether they can handle special dietary requirements. 

How Are Dogs Grouped and Supervised?

Understand how dogs are grouped and monitored to ensure compatibility. Facilities typically group dogs based on size, temperament, and play style. This grouping helps prevent conflicts and ensures that each dog can enjoy their time safely. Ask how the facility assesses dog behavior and makes grouping decisions. A good facility will have clear policies and procedures for monitoring interactions and managing any issues that arise.

Check the ratio of staff to dogs and the level of supervision provided. A lower staff-to-dog ratio generally means more individualized attention and better supervision. Ask about the number of staff members present during various times of the day and their qualifications. Well-supervised dogs are less likely to experience stress or get into conflicts, making adequate supervision a key component of a quality boarding experience.

How Accessible Is the Facility for Communication?

Ask how frequently the facility provides updates on your dog’s status. Many reputable facilities offer regular updates through phone calls, emails, or even text messages. Some may provide daily reports or updates on your dog's activities, health, and behavior. 

Confirm the available methods for contacting the facility in case of emergencies or inquiries. Ensure that you can reach out to the facility via phone, email, or other communication channels. It’s important that the facility has a clear process for addressing any concerns or emergencies, and that they are responsive to your inquiries.

What Is the Facility’s Policy on Visits and Tours?

Ask if you can visit the facility before making a booking. A pre-boarding visit allows you to tour the facility, meet the staff, and assess the environment firsthand. This visit can provide peace of mind, allowing you to see where your dog will stay and how they will be cared for. Most facilities encourage pre-boarding visits to build trust and ensure that both you and your pet are comfortable with the environment.

Wrapping Up

When evaluating a boarding facility, trust your instincts. If something feels off during your visit, it’s worth exploring other options. Additionally, seek out reviews and testimonials from other pet owners to gauge their experiences. The best facilities will be transparent, responsive, and focused on creating a positive experience for both pets and their owners.