Dog boarding facilities have done it again a little over a week ago.

For the 2^nd time in a year, a Merritt Island dog boarding facility was cited, this time for leaving a dog out in the hot sun in August, resulting in the dog suffering heat stroke.

When Bogie, the 4 yr. Schnauzer arrived at the vet, his body temperature was 107.6, well above normal. The staff at the boarding facility claimed Bogie had a seizure, but the vet confirmed it was heat stroke. Bogie almost died. This same facility was cited a year ago after a dog in their care was mauled to death while her owners were on vacation.

Our good friend, WKMG reporter, Erik Sandoval, reported both stories. Sadly, this boarding facility is still in business.

After I saw this story, and because people are beginning to make summer vacation plans, it made me want to reiterate what you need to do when choosing a dog boarding facility for your beloved family member.

Do your Homework!

If you’re looking for dog boarding in Orlando or anywhere in Central Florida, there’s no excuse for not thoroughly checking out dog boarding facilities where you would consider leaving your dog. Had Bogie’s parents done that, they likely would have reconsidered their decision to leave him there.

How do you go about checking out a potential dog boarding facility? 

Here are some suggestions: 

• Google the facility and see what you find.
• Read the reviews, especially those on Yelp.
• Stop by for an impromptu tour, and ask to see the WHOLE facility. Be wary of any boarding business that won’t show you everything or that won’t allow you to tour unannounced. They may have something to hide.
• During your tour, notice whether the building and play areas are clean and odor free and whether the dogs appear to be stress free. Notice the condition of the building and outdoor facilities.
• Ask questions during your tour! Questions such as:
  • Staff training. What kind of training have they had? Also look at how the staff interacts with the dogs. Are they engaged with the dogs? Or are they just passing time? Do the dogs appear to be having fun?

• • What is the staff to dog ratio? Many facilities have a ratio of 15 to 30 dogs per staff member (at Rocky’s our ratio is never more than 5 dogs to 1 staff member). Having such a high ratio can be dangerous should something happen.

• • What does a typical day look like?

• • What will you do if a dog gets diarrhea or doesn’t eat?

• • What’s your policy on medical attention?

• • Ask what the boarding fee includes. Some facilities charge extra for just about everything, so you can wind up spending more than you planned if you want your dog to do anything other than spend his whole time in a kennel.

All dog boarding facilities won’t resonate with everyone. Trust your instinct when looking at different facilities. Don’t base your decision on price or convenience alone. If the staff makes you feel comfortable and everything else checks out and looks good, give it a try. If you feel good about it, it’s likely your best friend will too.

We are the only Orlando dog boarding and Orlando doggie day care center that has an indoor heated pool for dogs. See it for yourself by scheduling a tour!

Rocky's Retreat | 2826 Shader Rd. Orlando FL 32808 | info@rockysretreat.com | (407) 295-3888