BBB Tips to Find a Trustworthy Kennel for the Holidays

Consumers Advised to Research Businesses in Advance

Austin, TX - November 18, 2010 – BBB receives hundreds of complaints from pet owners about pet boarding businesses, also called kennels, every year. Common complaints include disputes over billing, but also over the treatment of the pet.  Owners say their pets came back from kennels severely dehydrated and malnourished or rife with fleas, ticks, and even maggots.  Worst case scenarios include pets that became extremely ill from their stay at poor facilities which resulted in lengthy stays at the animal hospital.

Over 400 complaints have been filed nationwide against kennel companies so far this year. To reduce the number of complaints, BBB recommends that consumers who plan to board pets over the 2010 holidays begin to research local kennels now. Taking the time to research local kennels in advance will help consumers make informed decisions about which kennels will provide the best care for their pets this holiday season. The following tips are available to help consumers find a reliable kennel:

· Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. Additionally, check each kennel out with BBB to make sure they have a good track record for keeping customers satisfied.

· Personally visit the facilities. Check for cleanliness and note the overall safety of the kennel and cages. If your pet is prone to running away, ask about steps the kennel has taken to make their facilities secure.

· Ask about how your pet may come in contact with other animals. Some kennels let animals play together while others keep them separate at all times. Make sure the facility requires that all entering pets have proof of immunization and ask about their policies regarding flea and tick control.

· If your state requires inspections, make sure the kennel is properly licensed. Ask about the background and experience of company staff and take a few moments to see how they interact with the other boarding pets.

· Take the time to read over the boarding agreement. Verify it includes the feeding and exercise schedule as well as pick up and drop off hours. Some facilities offer bathing, nail trimming and immunization as additional services. Make sure these and any additional fees related to medical emergencies or other care are included in the agreement.

About Better Business Bureau:
BBB's mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. BBB accomplishes this mission by creating a community of trustworthy businesses, setting standards for marketplace trust, encouraging and supporting best practices, celebrating marketplace role models and denouncing substandard marketplace behavior.

Businesses that earn BBB Accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization's high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB is the preeminent resource to turn to for objective, unbiased information on businesses and charities. 

Contact BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas at (512) 445-4748.

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