Many are not aware that pet boarding facilities exist. Nowadays, more and more are popping up as the demand rises. Like daycare or boarding school for children, these businesses provide a safe and monitored environment for pets while their owners are away.
But how do you know if a pet boarding facility is right for your animal companion? Read on to learn more.
What Is a Pet Boarding Facility?
This type of business cares for pets while their guardians are away. This can include overnight stays, daycare, or even longer-term boarding.
Most facilities will offer basic services like food and water, a clean and comfortable place to sleep, and some form of exercise. Some may offer additional amenities such as grooming, training, or doggy daycare.
In general, these businesses are staffed by animal lovers who will take good care of your pet. Also, they need to follow certain guidelines and regulations set by the state or local government.
What Is a Pet Medical Boarding Facility?
Pet medical boarding is a type of boarding specifically for animals with special needs or require medical care.
This can include pets who are recovering from surgery, have chronic illnesses or are elderly. These facilities are staffed by trained professionals who can administer medication and provide the necessary care for your pet. For instance, they can also treat your puppy and kitten just getting their shots because they also have in-house vets.
What Are the Pros of a Pet Medical Boarding Facility?
There are several advantages to using a pet boarding facility, such as:
- Peace of mind. You don’t need to worry because your pet will be well taken care of while you’re away. A medical boarding for pets is registered and often has a license to operate, so their staff are highly-trained and must follow specific regulations and guidelines.
- Convenience. You can drop off your pet and know that they will be well taken care of without having to worry about making time in your schedule to take them to appointments. For instance, if your pet needs daily medication, you know that they will receive it on time and as prescribed.
- Comprehensive care. A medical boarding facility can provide a wide range of services, from administering medication to providing physical therapy. For instance, if your pet needs a lab test, you don’t need to find laboratories in Los Angeles or wherever you are located that will do it for you, the boarding facility can take care of it.
What Are the Cons of a Pet Medical Boarding Facility?
There are also disadvantages of these facilities, such as:
- Cost. Medical boarding for your pet can be expensive, especially if you require special care. The cost will also depend on the length of stay, boarding type, and required services.
- Limited space. Boarding facilities can only accommodate a limited number of pets at a time. So if you need to board your pet during peak periods (holidays, summer vacation, etc.), you may have to book in advance or be placed on a waiting list.
- Disease risk. Although most facilities are clean and well-maintained, there is always a risk of your pet contracting a disease or infection while caring for others.
- Availability. Not all areas have pet medical boarding facilities, so you may have to travel some distance to find one.
- Limited options. While pet medical boarding facilities offer a wide range of services, they may not be able to meet all of your pet’s needs. For example, if your pet needs specialized surgery or treatment, you may still need to take them to a veterinary hospital where specialists and specialized equipment are.
The Bottom Line
Pet medical boarding can be a great option for pet owners who need to leave their pets for an extended period of time. This especially benefits pet owners who are always busy but have a budget without worrying about their sick pets. However, if you only need to leave your pet for a short time, such as overnight or for a weekend, other options may be more suitable and less expensive, such as hiring a pet sitter or using a dog daycare.
When deciding, it is essential to consider all of the pros and cons and see what’s best for you and your pet.
