We all love our dogs so when we have to leave them, we want to know that they are going to be safe and comfortable. Most of us will often start by looking for kennels that are local and affordable but here are some tips that can help you to decide whether a kennel is the right one for your dog or not.

1. Is the Kennel licensed? All Kennels should be licensed by the local authority, to get the licence they must have passed certain standards. Here at The Good Kennel Guide we only list licenced kennels meaning that you have one less thing to worry about.

2. Does the outside of the Kennels look well kept or does it look run down and neglected? If it does then the interior of the Kennels may be similarly neglected and show a lack of care for the wellbeing of the dogs.

3. When you booked, did the Kennel ask you to bring an up to date vaccination certificate? If they didn’t the chances are that your dog will be mixing with other dogs whose vaccinations are not up to date, which could put your dog is at risk.

4. Does the Kennels smell bad? A large number of dogs will inevitably produce a lot of mess, however, a well-kept kennel will be cleaned at least daily and hopefully more. If it smells it may suggest hygiene standards are not what they should be and nobody wants to leave their dog in that type of environment.

5. When you arrive at the Kennels are the staff interested in you and your dog? Did they make a fuss of your dog and give you the impression they would care for your dog while you were away?

6. Is there bedding in the run and in the sleeping area, and was is it clean and tidy? Dogs like their comforts and you don’t want them to be left on a cold concrete floor. You will know your dog but most dogs prefer their sleeping area to be under cover.

7. Are the Kennels excessively noisy? Dogs bark, that’s the way they communicate, but incessant barking by all the dogs can be a sign that they are stressed. Dogs that are stressed can become ill and unwell.

8. What exercise regime do the kennels have on offer? Dogs need exercise and attention and they also need to socialise with other dogs. Being confined to the same kennel all day is more like a prison than the home from home you would want it to be.

9. When you arrived, were you shown where your dog will be staying? Most of us would want to know what our hotel room would be like and this is no different for your dog. If the kennel staff do not want to show you or do not offer to show you, perhaps they have something to hide.

10. Finally, the tell-tale sign after your dog’s first stay at the Kennels. How was your dog when you picked him/her up? They are bound to be happy to see you but did they seem relaxed, well fed and in good spirits.

It’s a tough choice deciding where to board your dog and nobody wants to leave their dog in an unsuitable place so, hopefully, these tips and The Good Kennel Guides easy to use search function will help you to make the right choice.