Kennels a Must While on Holidays

Pet-owners have been advised not to leave their dogs at home or with a pet-sitter while   away on holidays.

The country’s pounds have warned that pets often escape or wander off while left at home, and after just five days you can lose ownership of your beloved companion.

Pounds are legally entitled to re-home any animal they have taken in after five days have elapsed.  The same goes if another family takes your lost pet in, once five days pass they become the legal owner.

Often pet-owners aren’t even aware of this law and don’t realise the risk they are taking in leaving their furry friends home alone. Pounds report a surge in well-kept strays over the summer months which they presume have escaped while families are away.

We know leaving your pet in a kennel can be heart-wrenching, but these simple tips will help you assess a kennel’s suitability:

• Were the animals there excessively noisy?  This is a sign that the animals are distressed which in turn will stress your own pet.
• Was there a noticeably bad smell? This can be an indication of poor hygiene practices and should be avoided.
• Were you asked for proof of vaccinations?  All kennels should do this to prevent spread of disease, don’t use one that doesn’t.
• Could you see any shavings, newspaper etc. on the kennel floor?  These materials simply absorb urine and wash down waters which facilitates bacteria growth.  All surfaces should be clear and easy to clean.

By Jess. Filed under Animal Welfare, Cats, Dogs, Pet Care.