Trusting strangers at a boarding facility with your pet can be dangerous at times. It's important to find a top-notch boarding facility for your pooch! Ensure his safety and he will totally appreciate it! Read on to find out how to make the best choice!
In 2015, an air dryer used for drying fur at a pet spa, dog day care and boarding facility was left on while the owner left for less than half an hour. In that time, a fire started at the Monterey, California location, leading to the death of 15 dogs due to smoke inhalation.
A working fire alarm could have potentially prevented the loss of life that occurred during this tragedy, yet there are no codes in place that require kennels to have such alarms.
California Senate Passes Bill to Improve Pet Safety at Boarding Facilities
After the deadly fire, the group pushed for city officials to change city code to require monitored fire alarm systems in pet boarding facilities, a change officials said would take years.
The bill passed unanimously in the Senate and will move on to the Assembly. Citizens for Safe Boarding Member Rachael Zala told Kion Right Now
Tips for Choosing a Boarding Facility for Your Pet
Look for a facility that has both smoke and fire detectors in place, and that is monitored 24/7 to alert emergency services in the event of a fire or other disaster. Facilities should have an evacuation plan in place to get boarded pets out of harm’s way and to a safe alternative location quickly.
Other safety features to look for include security systems, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and motion detectors.
The facility should have either a night attendant or remote monitoring capabilities so that pets’ safety is being looked out for even after hours. Be sure to ask about the procedure for an after-hours emergency evacuation.
Alternatives to Boarding Facilities
If you have a trusted family member who is already familiar with your pet, that can be a good option — but many people do not or may feel uncomfortable asking for such a large favor.
Hiring a pet sitter to care for your pet in your home can be a good happy medium, allowing your pet to maintain his familiar routine and bypass the stress of being sent to a strange boarding facility. Finding a responsible, qualified and caring pet sitter is crucial, however.
Referrals from friends, neighbors, family, your veterinarian or your dog trainer are often the best sources of pet sitters. You can also check for pet-sitting services in your area by searching online or contact the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International.
While you may feel uncomfortable about entrusting a boarding facility with your precious pooch, there are plenty of other options! Your pooch will appreciate your efforts!
For more on boarding facility safety, visit Healthy Pets.
