Is it right for you to board your small dog or cat in a pet hospital? This is quite a commonly asked question, especially from observant and cautious pet owners who treat their pets like their own kids and intend to provide only the best care for them. This comprehensive article is aimed at exploring this topic in depth, helping you get clarity, put your concerns to rest, and make a well-informed decision.

A Brief Overview of Pet Hospitals

Let’s begin by understanding what a pet hospital is. Essentially, a pet hospital is a well-equipped establishment that provides a range of healthcare services for pets. These services can be routine check-ups, vaccinations, emergency treatments, and more. They essentially work similarly to a standard human hospital, with dedicated professionals catering to the health needs of pets.

Another crucial service offered by many pet hospitals is pet boarding. Suppose you’re planning a trip or have some commitments, and can’t take your pet along or leave them alone at home. In these circumstances, boarding your pet in a safe and professional setting such as a pet hospital can be a smart choice.

Core Components of Pet Boarding

• Veterinary Boarding Facility: Embedded within the larger pet hospital, the boarding facility is a separate section where pets stay during their boarding period.
• Experienced Veterinary Staff: The boarding facility staff usually comprises trained veterinary professionals who have hands-on experience handling pets of various breeds and temperaments.
• Veterinary Care while Boarding: A distinguished feature of pet hospitals that doubles up as boarding facilities is the immediate availability of veterinary care in the event of an emergency or routine treatment needed during the boarding period.
• A good number of these hospitals also offer pet boarding in Kennesaw, GA. Your beloved pet will be cared for by experienced staff within a secure environment while you are away.

Factors To Consider when Selecting a Pet Hospital for Boarding

When you are considering a pet hospital for boarding your furry friend, a few key considerations can help measure the safety and appropriateness of such a setting. These include:

Disease Exposure Risk

• Increased exposure to illness is a concern here. A high influx of pets increases the odds of your pet coming into contact with one that might carry an infectious condition. Therefore, before boarding, make sure that your pet is up-to-date on all the necessary vaccinations.
• Good pet hospitals follow strict sanitation guidelines to minimize any risk, but you should always double-check for your peace of mind.

Stress Level

• Boarding can induce stress in pets, particularly if it is their first time being away from their usual living environment or their owners.
• A well-managed pet boarding facility ensures stress levels are kept to a minimum, helping your pet feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
• This can be achieved through sufficient exercise, balanced diets, and environments that mimic their natural living conditions.

Diet and Exercise

• Any change in diet and exercise routine can disrupt your pet’s health status. Hence, at the top pet hospitals that offer boarding, meal plans, and exercise regimens typically stay as consistent as possible, mirroring the routine your pet is used to at home.

Certain cases may necessitate veterinary surgery during your pet’s boarding period – but don’t fret. The majority of pet hospitals providing boarding services are fully equipped to handle such scenarios. Skilled professionals can administer the necessary surgery, providing a vital link between the boarding and medical care components.

Appreciable Benefits of Boarding in Pet Hospitals

Note-worthy Advantages

• Access to medical care: One of the most significant benefits is the ready availability of medical care. If your pet falls sick or requires emergency medical attention during their stay, you don’t have to worry about rushing them to a separate facility – the necessary care can be provided immediately.
• Experienced pet handlers: The staff at these boarding facilities are not just ordinary pet handlers. They’re typically experienced veterinary professionals who can efficiently manage pets of all types and address any health concerns should they arise.
• Pet Socializing Opportunities: Boarding your pet in a pet hospital can expose them to other pets, aiding in their social development and addressing any socialization issues they might have.
• Convenience: Finally, boarding your pet gives you the freedom and peace of mind to attend to your commitments, knowing your pet is in safe and professional hands.

Important Questions To Ask Before Boarding Your Pet

Whenever you’re checking out a pet hospital for boarding your pet, there are some key questions to ask. These will help you understand the level of care and attention your pet will receive during their stay.

On Medical Care

• Is there an on-site vet available at all times to attend to any health concerns quickly?
• What procedures are followed when a pet requires emergency medical care?

On Daily Care

• What are the feeding schedules like, and can they be customized to match what your pet has at home?
• What opportunities for physical activity and exercise are offered?

On Additional Services

• Are there grooming services available for pets during their stay?
• Are there opportunities for socializing with other pets?

Another consideration is whether the pet hospital could offer a full-service pet hospital package. This simply means that beyond just administering medical care, they also offer other services that generally contribute to the well-being of your pet. Kennesaw vets are reputed for offering such holistic services, creating conducive environments that cater to the overall well-being of pets.

Deciding to Board Your Pet In a Pet Hospital

Choosing a suitable place for your pet to stay during your absence can be a tad stressful. One way to help with the decision could be to visit the childcare facility with your pet to see how they react to the different environment. If your pet feels comfortable and the staff seem competent and caring, it’s a good sign.

Apart from your pet’s reaction, consider factors such as location convenience, how cost-effective it is, and what gives you the most peace of mind when choosing.

Conclusion

In summary, managed correctly, pet hospitals are safe places for boarding small dogs and cats. The availability of any necessary services, the standard of care, and the professional experience of the staff are a few key elements that make pet hospitals suitable choices for pet boarding. However, your decision must ultimately be rooted in what you feel is the best choice for your pet. After all, you know your pet better than anyone.