Pet Boarding

Like A Hotel

One of the most important services that veterinary clinics provide is pet boarding in a kennel environment that is secure (escape-proof), comfortable, and sanitary. Although boarding kennels are not required to be supervised by veterinarians, the advantage of veterinary supervision is obvious. As health professionals, veterinarians are trained in the basics of disease prevention and the importance of sanitation. Veterinarians know how to design kennel facilities that are easy to sanitize, and they understand the pitfalls of cross-contamination. Plus, if an animal becomes ill while being boarded, only a veterinary supervised kennel can provide the immediate diagnostic and medical services that may be necessary on short notice.

A cautionary word is in order about boarding kennels that look cushy. Unfortunately, cushy and sanitary are not compatible. That’s why hospital rooms have tile floors instead of carpet and why commercial kitchens have walls and ceilings that are required by health laws to be “smooth and impervious to moisture.” If you leave your pet at a kennel which allows him/her to hang out on an upholstered couch, or sleep on a carpeted floor, or have the run of the house, you are allowing your pet to be exposed to all the disease germs that have been left there by every boarded pet who has ever stayed there before. Well-designed boarding facilities don’t look cushy. Soft upholstered bedding is great for your own pet in your own home, but in your home environment, cross-contamination of disease germs is not a threat. Sanitation must be the primary design consideration for boarding kennels. That’s why we recommend that you board your pets at a veterinarian supervised facility.

The boarding facilities offered at Van Buren Co. Veterinary Clinic are safe, secure, and sanitary, and only fully vaccinated pets are allowed to stay in our facility. These are standard features and health requirements of most veterinary supervised boarding facilities. Leaving your pet in a facility the does not insist on current vaccinations is a dangerous proposition and puts your pet at risk.

Because we have more than ample space, we can generally book your pets’ to stay on short notice. However, we sometimes reach capacity during holidays, so it’s best to call ahead for reservations.