OUR SERVICES
Boarding Advice
at Gladstone Veterinary Clinic
Going on holidays soon?
Before considering whether to board your pet, please check their vaccination records to ensure they have been vaccinated within the past 12 months. If your pet is due for a booster vaccination, make sure this is done well ahead of the boarding period. Additionally, it’s important to contact the boarding facility for specific boarding advice, particularly regarding their policy on how soon before boarding a vaccination can be administered. This will help ensure a smooth and safe boarding experience for your pet.
When choosing a boarding facility, there are a number of factors to consider, such as:
- How big are individual kennels?
- Is there any natural light?
- Will your pet have access to a run during the day?
- How many kennels are there in the complex? Fewer kennels may mean a quieter, calmer stay.
- Do the kennels smell bad? If so, this can indicate poor hygiene or ventilation problems.
- Are the staff/owners welcoming, friendly and polite?
- Did they require proof of vaccination? Vaccinations help prevent the spread of disease.
- Are there signs of overbooking or overcrowding?
- Do they provide food or can you provide your own pet’s specific diet?
- Can they medicate dogs if required?
- Which veterinarian do they use in an emergency?
When preparing to board your pet, you’ll need to inform the facility of any health problems your pet has had or is prone to. If your pet requires medication, it’s important to notify the facility at the time of booking. Be sure to write down the dose, frequency, and name of the medication.
For pets on long-term medication, please bring extra, just in case. Additionally, provide the boarding facility with our contact details in case your pet needs veterinary attention in your absence.
As part of our boarding advice, we recommend choosing a facility with a relaxed, calm atmosphere. Look for places with fewer kennels or animals, a design that minimizes stress, and a commitment to maintaining high hygiene standards.
Lastly, please give us a call to discuss boarding and to ensure your pet is up to date with the required vaccinations.