Our adorable pets are truly members of the family, and although we cannot always take them along when we travel for business or pleasure, their safety and comfort is very important. Not all kennels provides the same services, so for clients that observe a holistic lifestyle, the choices are even more important.

Rob Cottingham, owner of veterinarian recommended Underdog Kennels, says, “We offer Daycare 2.0. It’s based on the latest behavioral dog research that shows our dogs are much like young children, toddler age or slightly older. Most dogs will become overstimulated if they are left in an open daycare environment surrounded by other dogs all day long.” He explains, “Imagine a human daycare late in the afternoon, full of toddlers that haven’t had any naps. Our furry guests have mandatory nap times every day in the privacy of their own rooms  to keep everyone healthy and in good moods.”

They have a fully equipped kitchen to serve hot or cold meals. “We suggest that the owners send along the food their dogs currently eat. That way, we can keep them on their current diets and avoid any upset tummies due to a diet change,” advises Cottingham. “However we do have a fancy room service menu for those that want to really treat their dogs while they stay with us.”

Amanda Limato, owner of Wag Time Pets, says, “We are an enrichment-based daycare facility, which means that our guests have a structured daily routine that is focused on the mental, physical and emotional well-being of each individual dog in our care. Just like children, dogs thrive in environments where they are familiar with the expectations, a normal schedule, appropriate rest and the encouragement and reinforcement of good behaviors. We keep our groups small with an emphasis on regular attendance, so that when a pet comes to spend the night with us they are with familiar handlers, familiar dogs, in a familiar place.”

She explains, “We only accept pets who are a part of our daycare program as overnight guests to ensure that not only are they not stressed because visiting us is already part of their normal lives, but they also will not stress out the other pets in attendance for daycare each day. It is important for pets to be as comfortable as possible while away from their people, so we always aim to build lifelong bonds with the dogs in our care so they can look to us for reassurance.”

Limato states, “We encourage anyone looking to choose a kennel for their pet to first set up a tour to see the facility for yourself. You’ll have the opportunity to view the dogs in their care and see their demeanors, you’ll get to meet some of the staff that will be caring for your pet, and ask as many questions about the daily routine as you can!”

Underdog Kennels, 7129 Harry Hines Blvd,, Dallas, 214-267-2275, Underdog-Kennels.com.

Wag Time Pets, 2110 N. Collins St., Arlington, 817-276-1414, WagTimePets.com.