I am worried about leaving my puppy in a kennel...

I was offered a three week vacation touring Europe and I said no because I don't want to leave my dogs. I would miss them, and no one would take care of them the way I do. It would be like leaving someone in charge of a stable full of horses.
I understand completely how you feel. Kennels are ok but I would take the dog to the kennel several times, make it a fun trip, then leave him for an hour one visit, and by then he should be used to it so it won't be a strange place.
Then you could fly away to your tropical island sit under palm trees and drink tropical smoothies..........................................wondering the whole time how your dog is doing.
Welcome to the world of loving your dog.
Good Luck

Kayak answered on 6/20/09. Helpful? / 0

There are many different options to a kennel.
First option is to find a (licensed)dog sitter who can come to your house and stay with your dog. I don't know how prevalent that is in your neck of the woods, but they're a dime a dozen here in n.ca. They'll come to your house and stay there, walk and play with your pooch. I think it's a healthier way for the dog to be away from you. At a kennnel the dog will be in a cage for most of the day and at his age, that may not be too good for him.
The other option, is you could take your dog to a dog sitters house who will take the dog in like it's part of their family. They let the dog sleep inside and they will play with your pup just like it was one of their own. Get references.
I'm not a fan of kennels, especially for a dog so young whose bond with you is in process.
Google dog/pet sitters in your area or even out of your area and see if you can find someone who can personally take care of your pup. How about a neighbor or relative?

Guest 404377 answered on 6/20/09. Helpful? / 0

Is there a family member or close trusting friend that you can have your pup stay at while gone. I always keep mine at my parents or my close friends apartment if I have to go away and cant bring the pups. I have never kept mine at a boarding facility and would never be able to. I work at a place that also offers boarding and dont like what I see. That being said though many people board their animals and are very happy with their services so if that is your only option just make sure you thouroughly(sp sorry?) check the place out first and see what the animals daily routine will be there so they arent cooped in a cage all day only to get out for 5 mins, 10 if lucky.

Daisy answered on 6/20/09. Helpful? / 0

A good kennel should be fine. We usually leave our puppies with other people in the dog guide program, but have used kennels in the past. Make sure it is clean and demands proof of shots. Check ahead of time and make sure he has the required shots. At 5 months, most puppies have everything except maybe rabies and kennel cough. Ask about how much attention the dog get. We have also left puppies with our vet. Once when we returned, our puppy was out being walked by a staff member.

Friends and relatives can work, but be very sure they are on the same page as you on dog care. If not, it can be a disaster. We once got a puppy at 42 days and had to leave it the next day for a weekend. That had to be with the right people.

One of the great things about fostering a service dog puppy is being able to take it with you. Last weekend my wife took Tux to an out of town wedding. Next week is my family reunion and the fourth is my wife's high school reunion, with a week of visits.

Aster answered on 6/21/09. Helpful? / 0