Housing

Dogs can be accommodated in a number of ways.

In temperate climates, a kennel is not essential, provided the dog has access to the house, a garage, underneath the house, or some other suitable shelter which protects it from direct sunlight, wind and rain.

In cooler climates, a kennel is essential. The kennel should just exceed the size of the dog so that body heat can warm the surrounding air.

The kennel should be located in the shade and should be well-ventilated, warm in winter and cool in summer. It should be weather-proof, draught-free and elevated from the ground, with a wooden floor.

Bedding should be disposable - for example, sawdust, shavings or newspapers - as this helps eliminate a breeding site for fleas and mites.

Rinse the kennel once a month with an insecticidal preparation, put in new bedding and burn the old. All feeding utensils should be washed daily, or after every meal, and clean water provided daily in a shady spot.

Boarding Tips

Dogs to be boarded should be fully vaccinated and wormed fourteen days beforehand. Once a satisfactory establishment has been found, continue to patronize it because it and the staff will become familiar to the dog. The dog should be re-wormed four weeks after returning home. 

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