Supervision and Staffing
The quality of supervision is paramount. It’s not just about someone being present; it's about active, knowledgeable oversight. Start by asking about the staff-to-dog ratio, especially during group play. A good rule of thumb is one staff member for every
10-15 dogs, though more active groups may require more supervisors. Inquire about staff training. Are they certified in pet first aid and CPR? Do they receive ongoing education in animal behaviour, including how to read stress signals and safely de-escalate conflicts? A well-trained staff can prevent problems before they start. Find out if pets are supervised overnight or if the facility is unstaffed after hours. If so, what monitoring systems, like cameras or smoke detectors, are in place? You want to know that your pet is truly being watched over, not just housed.
Exercise and Enrichment
A tired dog is often a happy dog, but exercise needs vary. Ask for a detailed daily schedule. How often will your dog be taken out of their individual kennel? What does 'playtime' entail? Is it a supervised group session in a yard, or an individual walk? If group play is offered, ask how they separate dogs. Reputable facilities group dogs by size, age, and temperament to ensure safety and comfort. Also, inquire about the environment itself. Are the play areas secure, with sturdy fencing to prevent escapes? Beyond physical exercise, ask about mental enrichment. Do they offer puzzle toys or one-on-one cuddle time, especially for dogs who may not thrive in group settings? A good facility understands that a pet's well-being is about more than just potty breaks.
Cleaning and Hygiene Protocols
A clean facility is a healthy facility. Don't be shy about asking for the specifics of their cleaning routine. Kennels, bedding, and bowls should be sanitized daily. Ask how often the common areas and individual runs are deep-cleaned and what products are used. The cleaning process should involve removing solid waste, scrubbing surfaces with detergent, and then applying a pet-safe disinfectant for the required contact time before rinsing. Ask about their protocols for preventing the spread of common illnesses like kennel cough. This includes their vaccination requirements; most facilities require proof of rabies, distemper, and Bordetella vaccinations. The facility should look and smell clean, a strong indicator of their commitment to hygiene and disease prevention.
Veterinary Emergencies
While no one wants to think about it, a clear emergency plan is non-negotiable. Ask what the procedure is if a pet becomes ill or is injured. Do they have a veterinarian on staff or a relationship with a local vet clinic and a 24-hour emergency hospital? How do they handle transporting a sick animal? Will they attempt to contact you first, and what happens if you are unreachable? It’s crucial to provide them with an emergency contact who is authorized to make decisions on your behalf. If your pet has pre-existing conditions or requires medication, confirm that the staff is trained and capable of providing the necessary care. A professional facility will ask for your pet's full medical history and your regular vet's contact information upon intake. Having a solid plan provides immense peace of mind.
