Plan before leaving your dog in a kennel

There are times when we just can't take our dogs with us - a trip out of town, vacations to far off places or a local, multiday event like a family wedding.

If our dogs aren't coming with us, we have to make plans for someone to take care of them while we're away. We can leave him with a relative, hire a pet sitter to stay in your home or board him in a kennel. I've done all three with my dog.

If you decide to board your dog in a kennel, the HSUS offers suggestions for finding a quality place so you can leave him with a little peace of mind.

First, do your research. Find a good kennel by asking your veterinarian, friend, dog trainer or animal shelter for a recommendation. Once you have names of kennels, do some background checking. Find out if it meets state mandated standards, if they exist, and is a member of The Pet Care Services Association.

This trade association was founded by kennel operators to promote professional standards for pet care. Association members subscribe to a code of ethics and offer voluntary facility accreditation that indicates the facility has been inspected and meets association standards of professionalism, safety and quality care.

Also, check with the Better Business Bureau to see whether any complaints have been lodged against the kennel you are considering using for your dog.

Secondly, schedule a visit to the boarding facility. After confirming with the kennel the dates you will be boarding your dog, and also that they can address any special needs your dog may have, schedule a tour. During your visit, ask to see any places your dog will be taken and pay attention to the following:

Does the kennel look and smell clean?

Is there sufficient ventilation and light?

Is a comfortable temperature maintained?

Is the staff knowledgeable and caring?

Are boarded animals required to be current on their vaccinations, including the vaccine for canine kennel cough (Bordetella)? This requirement helps protect your dog and others.

Does your dog have his own adequately sized indoor-outdoor run or an indoor run and a schedule for exercise?

Are outdoor runs and exercise areas protected from wind, rain and snow?

Are resting boards and bedding provided to allow your dog to rest off the concrete floor?

How often is your dog fed?

Can you bring your dog's special food?

Are other services available such as grooming, training bathing?

What veterinary services are available?

How are rates calculated?

After visiting the kennel, make sure your dog is prepared for his stay. Before leaving him, make sure he knows basic commands and is well socialized around people and other dogs. If your dog has an aggression problem, boarding in a kennel may not be an option for him. Make sure your dog is current on all of his vaccinations.

When you drop your dog off for his stay, make sure you give the kennel staff any medications your dog is taking, any special food he eats, your veterinarian's phone number, contact information for you and a local contact number.

During the drop off, remind the staff about any medical problems or behavior problems your dog may have, like fear of thunder. After checking in, hand your dog to a staff member, say goodbye and leave. Avoid a long, emotional goodbye, which may upset your pet.

You can then have a good trip or enjoy your event knowing your dog is safe and you've left him in good hands.

It's never easy leaving our dogs in the care of someone else. But if you plan ahead, you can have peace of mind, knowing your dog is safe and comfortable.

• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is a nonprofit (501c3), all volunteer, no-kill animal shelter dedicated to the welfare of stray, abused and abandoned cats and dogs. For information, call The Buddy Foundation at (847) 290-5806 or visit www.thebuddyfoundation.org.