1.Start boarding your pet at an early age. If you wait until they are 5 years of age and up, they usually have a difficult time adjusting . If a dog is 5 - 8 years or older, and boarding for the first time, we suggest a short trial boarding period for a short weekend. During the trial board we can see whether he/she will adjust to a longer term. Dogs older than 12 years of age, and never boarded before can often present a challenge for the kennel operator. We suggest that you consult with both us and your veterinarian prior to boarding to assure everyone that the pet is in good health and that the inherent stress of boarding would not prove to be overwhelming for you and your pet.

2.When you decide that boarding is for you, make a personal visit to all the kennels. Only you can decide which kennel is for you. Looking at the yellow pages gives a small picture of what you might expect. A physical tour of the kennel will introduce the kennel's staff and give you an opportunity to see just how they will be taking care of your pet. You will also be able to see just how clean the facility is, how much staff they employ, what extra or A La' Carte Services are available.

Do not rely on just price -- remember you will usually get just what you pay for! Choose a kennel that allows YOU to structure your pet's routine. Most better professional kennels will provide you with a wide range of service options for your pet. Remember, however, that kennels MUST have a structured daily routine to accomplish their services. Work with the kennel to blend your requests into their capabilities. For a description of our daily routine please visit our page " A Day At the Kennel".

Don't be fooled by gimmicks. If a kennel offers "free walks to all boarders" remember that if you are not paying for a service then when a kennel's staff does not have time for the service the service may not be performed. Ask the kennel what the run to staff ratio is. One staff member per 10-12 runs is a good ratio. If they have 100 runs and only 3-4 persons on staff there is a good chance that your pet may not receive all the attention necessary.

Wakefield Kennel employs a staff to pet ratio of no less than 10. At more busy times we employ additional staff to meet the increased occupancy and demand.

3.Once you've decided on a kennel, the day that you check in, make sure you have your dog on a leash. Most dogs do not like to be picked up by strangers on the first visit, and there are usually other dogs going in and out, so for piece of mind, leash your dog (most kennels will not keep your leash or collar) but you will avoid problems if you bring your pet into the kennel leashed.

4.Find out from the kennel what you should bring, some kennels will want you to bring your own food, treats, and others will tell you to bring nothing. We encourage people to bring their pet's food, (see our page on dietary changes and problems), treats, one toy (no balls), and anything that will make your pet's stay more enjoyable.

5.On the day of check-in, give the kennel a call and make sure that all detail (such as shot requirements, feeding instructions, bedding choices, or extra services which you requested) are on file and in place. This will speed your check-in procedures.

6.When checking in your pet in, try not to make your pet feel like he's being left behind, accompanied with a lot of tears,and guilt, because your dog can sense your feelings, and will think there is something wrong. He will become frightened and fearful, thinking you are abandoning him, and will have a difficult adjustment period for the first day or two. The proper thing to do is to reassure your pet that everything is all right, with a pat on the head, and tell him/her that you will be back soon. When you are preparing for your trip (packing your bags & the car) tell your pet that he is "ready to go to camp". Make the experience an upbeat and positive experience.

7.Give the Kennel Operator as much information as possible about your pet,along with past health problems and any medication that he/she might be on.

8.Check your Kennels policies and hours. These should be respected if you wish to continue a good relationship.