Can Puppies Stay in Dog Kennels?

Not everyone has family or close friends that can look after their dogs when they are away for business or leisure. In situations like this, we all need a reliable kennel where our pets can relax and be looked after while we are away. The big question is whether or not puppies can visit the kennels too. In this article, we aim to answer all of your questions so that you can be fully prepared for your pup’s care as they get older.

How Old Should Puppies be Before Going to the Kennels?

The majority of kennels and home boarders will not take puppies that are under six months old. This is because they are still developing, and their bond with you is still forming – as is their comfortability with the world around them. Their immune systems are also still developing, and so they could be more susceptible to any viruses carried by other dogs in the kennels.

Kennels or Home Boarding for Puppies?

This is a common question – which is best for puppies? The truth is that it all depends on your personal feelings. Kennels can be quite isolating for puppies, who are naturally more social and eager to explore. Home boarding means that they get to stay in that home environment with less stress and a lot more attention.

Puppies, like people, all have their own little personalities, so it can also be down to your pup’s personality. Some are very clingy and like to be close to their family, and so they might not do well when in kennels and may benefit from a home environment instead. Others are more independent and may adapt well to kennels.

If you plan to be away on holiday every year, or even a couple of times a year and plan to leave your dog in kennels it can be a good idea to start at a young age. This gets them used to the journey to the kennel, the atmosphere while there, and the knowledge that you are coming back for them. It can be distressing for puppies at first, but they often get used to it.

How to Prepare for Kennels or Boarding

It can be a little scary when you prepare your pup for their first boarding session at the kennels, but there is a handy checklist that will make things easier for both of you.

Vaccinations. Your puppy must have both sets of vaccines before they can stay at kennels. Additionally, they will need a shot for kennel cough. This keeps them safe, and also reduces the risk of it spreading to other dogs outside of the kennels. Many kennels will have a specific timeframe that you have to wait between vaccines and staying – don’t leave it to the last minute.

Medication. If your puppy has meds, always pack enough medication to cover the time you are away and an extra week. You never know how much you might be delayed by or what could happen, and this will keep your pup safe. Leave clear instructions for the kennels, and speak with them in person before you leave so that they know what to do.

Toys. Leave them with toys and a blanket that smells of home. This will give them a lot of comfort at night, and the toys mean they have something to play with during the day. You should also bring your dog’s food with you, and go through an exercise schedule with the kennel.

Contact Details. Always leave your contact information and that of your vet when you leave your puppy. They will have someone to call if anything happens. You should also find out what their protocol is if they cannot get in touch with you and need to take your puppy to the vet.

The Pros and Cons of Kennels for Pups

It’s good to have the pros and cons of the kennels laid out so that you can make the choice that is best for your pet.

Pros:
Professional care
Know they are being exercised and looked after
Quick medical care if needed
Provides safe shelter
Gets them used to being away from you

Cons:
Can get an upset stomach if given different food
Risk of illness (although small)
Can be stressful for pups when separated from you

How to Pick the Perfect Dog Kennels

It’s really important to stay local, and that is why we are the perfect solution if you are looking for Dog kennels for puppies in Rotherham, Maltby, Whickersley, and Swallownest. Your dog is part of our family, and our team of experts is always on hand to care for them, exercise them, and provide them with the love and attention they need. It gives you peace of mind while away.

Staying local is often a good choice. It means the dog is never far from their home, and you can collect them quickly when you return. Listen to recommendations from family and friends, and always take the time to check the reviews online. After all, you want to make sure you are leaving your dog with someone who is reputable.

To Conclude

It’s all about what’s going to be best for your pet. Puppies are sweet little souls that need time to adjust to a new home and bond with their family. This is why it is important that they don’t go to kennels when they are too young. So yes, puppies can go to the dog kennels, but they should certainly be older than six months before they do.  If you would like more advice on our Dog Kennels in Rotherham give one of our friendly team a call.