The physical well-being of the cats and dogs is supervised in roomy, well-ventilated indoor kennels, each animal (or family of animals) having its own apartment. Washable beds filled with either hay or shredded newspaper are provided for their comfort and warmth, although the dogs and cats can bring their own bed or blanket if they wish. Heat lamps are available for the dogs if desired, at a small extra charge, although the need for heat is minimal, as the dogs are protected from draughts, and are rubbed down after walks in wet weather.
In the dog kennels, absorbent material is used on the floors, so that urine or waste matter does not soil the dog's coat. During twice-daily cleaning, any waste is removed, and the floor washed with specially formulated, non-toxic kennel disinfectant. This method of cleaning is expensive to operate, but has many advantages over more old-fashioned "hosing down".
Dogs are exercised twice a day on a lead. Although this is time-consuming and demanding in man-power, we consider it preferable to the system of out-door "runs"; the latter frequently result in damp, cold dogs lying out in a draught. The exercise period is also invaluable towards preventing depression, giving us an opportunity to get to know the dog, and to observe any developing problem. The exercise period also offers the house-trained dog an opportunity to relieve himself out of doors.
The
Cattery buildings are heated by radiators, but additional heat-lamps are
available if needed. Cattery hygiene is based on the use of litter trays,
which are changed twice a day, the same specialized disinfectant being
used in the Catteries as in the Kennels.
A strict hygiene routine is established for handling and cleaning feeding and drinking bowls, as many dog and cat diseases are transmitted in saliva.
Cats are fed on Choosy tinned cat food (other makes available), and milk; with an option of Iams or Febo dry cat food. Dogs are fed Delta Chicken and Rice Premium diet; tinned meat and wholemeal biscuit are stocked as an alternative. This feeding routine has proved entirely trouble-free, and highly acceptable to the animals. The only complaint from owners has occasionally been that the dogs will not eat their old food when they return home! Special diets can be catered for on request.
Fresh water is always available to all Boarders.
Dogs are
groomed regularly, and bathed as necessary. Nails can be clipped as required.
There is also a busy grooming
& trimming Salon attached to the kennels, so any breed (or mongrel)
can have a full beauty treatment during their stay, on request. Long-haired
cats are groomed as necessary, provided that they are willing to co-operate!
Dogs and cats will only be accepted as Boarders if they are covered by an up-to-date inoculation certificate. Should your dog or cat need medical attention while in the Kennels, a Veterinary Surgeon will be called immediately. The bill for this service will be met by the Pet Plan Boarding Kennels Insurance Scheme, provided that the animal was not already suffering from the ailment on arrival.
