If you’ve never kenneled a pet before, the process can be nerve wracking - it’s normal to be stressed at the prospect of leaving your pet! However, a little preparation will put you at ease and make sure your pet is happy and healthy. So, how can you be sure you’re choosing the best care for your pet?

In many states and provinces, kennels need to be licensed and are subject to regular checkups. If you live somewhere where these regulations are in place, the kennel of your choice should have a license or inspection pass sheet to show you. If not, the Humane Society recommends checking these key areas before you choose a kennel:

• Is the space clean and light, with good ventilation and temperature?
• Do the staff seem caring, friendly and knowledgeable?
• Are dogs, cats and other animals separated?
• Can you supply your own food for the duration of the stay?
• Are fences secured? Many animals will try to escape while they’re getting used to the new space.
• Are grooming and bathing provided for longer stays?
• Is supervised play included in the kennelling fees? Not all kennels include this in their base prices.

Don’t be afraid to shop around, and use recommendations from your groomer, vet or friends to find your starting point. The better you feel about the space your pet is in, the less guilty you’ll feel when dropoff time rolls around.

If you have a pet in need of specific medical care or with limited sight or mobility, make the kennel aware of this when you come in for a tour. Most will be upfront about being able or unable to care for a higher-maintenance animal, and you’ll be able to sense any gaps in their knowledge and understanding when you talk through your pet’s problems.

Once you’ve found a kennel that suits your needs and budget, there are a few precautions you can take to make their stay even better:

• Stop by the vet before you drop them off. Because they’ll be in the company of many other dogs, disease is easier to catch in a kennel setting. Make sure they’re up to date on their shots and ask your vet about any special precautions they’d recommend.
• Try a weekend-long or even overnight stay before your vacation, to identify any problems early on. If they have separation anxiety or aren’t socializing well, you might consider other options like a pet sitter.
• Bring blankets, a bed, or toys for your pet - the familiar smell will be comforting to them in new surroundings.
• Bring a sheet with any special instructions or needs your pet may have - if they react poorly to certain factors or weather, have medications or allergies, or anything else.
• This sheet should also include your contact number, the animal’s vet in case of emergency, and a local backup if you have one.

Once you’ve done your homework and you’re at the kennel, make your goodbye short and sweet. We’re all attached to our pets, but drawn out goodbyes could signal to your pooch that something’s wrong, causing them distress. Be excited and reassuring, and they’ll mirror your energy and start their vacation off on a high note (and so will you)!

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Looking for pet-friendly travel? Try our dog-lover's guide to Chicago!