Dog Kennels or How to Care for Your Pet While Away

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The first thing that comes to mind when dog kennels are mentioned, is a fenced-in dog run where a pet can be safely kept outdoors. The term however, describes any structure or shelter for dogs, be those indoor structures or pet carriers. Kennels are of several types, but they all serve the same purpose: to keep the dog inside a protected area while giving it some space for free movement.

Dog Kennels or How to Care for Your Pet While Away

Boarding Dog Kennels
An alternative to pet sitters, these kennels function as pet daycare facilities where you can leave your dog for several hours while you are running errands, or for longer periods while you are on vacation.

The stress factor involved in such sudden and dramatic change in living conditions is the main concern of dog owners when it comes to boarding kennels. Such worry is only natural, but the good news is that most boarding kennels work hard on reducing stress caused by the unfamiliar and sometimes crowded spaces.

Most kennels offer playtime and it is not rare that grooming and training services are offered. Meanwhile, many kennels recommend dog owners to bring in their pets favorite toy, pillow or blanket for the boarding period, to make the stay as comfortable as possible. Pet daycare comes for a price though, and not all dog owners have the means to pay for these services when in need of pet sitting.

Outdoor Kennels
Outdoor dog kennels are designed to keep a dog fenced in within a certain area. If your pet is well trained and given enough daily run and play time, the time spent in the kennel will be a welcome occasion for rest and quite time.

The ideal location for such a structure is one with proper drainage, but special attention must be given to flooring. For optimal comfort, it is generally recommended for the kennel to be rather longer than wide and to allow running space for the dog. The overhead shelter that most outdoor kennels come with protects the dog from the sun and rain. If you place a dog pillow and some toys into the kennel, your dog will be comfortable and feel in its element there.

Whether you need to leave your home for several hours or you receive guests, who are not comfortable with a dog around, outdoor dog kennels are handy and helpful solutions.

Kennels for Inside Use
Indoor kennels serve the same purpose as outdoor kennels, but they come in smaller sizes and are easy to set up and move around. These structures are often used for housebreaking or crate training. Regular and thorough cleaning is important.

Aside from the above mentioned kennels, portable kennels are popular among people who like to travel having their pets around. These small units are means of accommodation for the time of transportation only.

Dog kennels are available in many sizes and shapes; whichever design or type you would opt for, make sure that your dog is comfortable and that kennel time means rest, not stress.

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