Generally safe with preparation, but holiday rushes increase risks of stress and illness transmission in crowded facilities.
Verify that the facility requires current vaccinations for all animals to prevent disease transmission.
Check that the facility maintains appropriate staffing levels during high-occupancy holiday periods.
Consider your pet's temperament as high-energy environments can cause significant stress for some animals.
Schedule a visit prior to booking to inspect cleanliness, security, and safety protocols.
Boarding your pet during the holidays is a common practice, but it carries specific risks due to increased occupancy. Facilities are often at maximum capacity, which can lead to heightened stress levels for animals and a higher probability of spreading contagious illnesses like Bordetella or canine influenza. It is essential to confirm that the kennel has strict vaccination requirements and a solid emergency protocol in place. Furthermore, investigate the staff-to-pet ratio during peak times to ensure your pet receives sufficient attention and monitoring. If your pet has a pre-existing medical condition or suffers from severe separation anxiety, the loud and busy environment of a holiday boarding kennel may not be ideal. In such cases, hiring a professional pet sitter to stay in your home might be a safer, less stressful alternative. Always perform a site visit beforehand to evaluate the hygiene, security, and climate control of the facility to ensure it meets safety standards.
Was this helpful?
Practical next steps, warning signs, and when to seek help.
