Alicia Collins is the Founder & CEO of K9 Activity Club, an award winning pet care facility. She holds PACCC CPACO certification and is an AKC CGC Trainer/Evaluator, committed to excellence in pet care and supporting local entrepreneurship.

What Makes a Great Dog Boarding Facility? An Insider’s Perspective

By Alicia Collins, Founder & CEO of K9 Activity Club

For many pet owners, leaving their dog behind—whether for a weekend trip or an extended vacation—can cause anxiety. Choosing the right care professionals or boarding facility is more than just about convenience; it’s about ensuring your dog’s safety, happiness, and well-being in your absence. As the Founder & CEO of K9 Activity Club, a top-rated pet care facility, I’ve spent years perfecting what makes a boarding experience exceptional, focusing on creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment for every dog in our care.

Whether you’re a first-time boarder or looking to switch facilities, here’s what you should consider before making your decision.

Safety & Cleanliness Standards Come First

A high-quality boarding facility prioritizes cleanliness and safety above all else. Some key indicators of a well-maintained facility include:

• Clean, odor-free spaces – Kennels, play areas, and common spaces should be spotless, with no lingering odors. Watch out for old couches for lounging or shared bedding that can’t be easily sanitized.
• Secure fencing and supervision – Dogs should never be left unsupervised in play areas, and all enclosures should be secure and escape-proof. Ask the facility if dogs are ever left unattended and under what circumstances. If your dog is prone to escaping or jumping fences, be sure to inform the staff. Some facilities may require special accommodations or determine that their setup isn’t suitable for highly skilled escape artists.
• Emergency protocols – The facility should have a vet on call and a clear plan for handling medical emergencies. Is there a plan to evacuate if necessary?
• Vaccination requirements – While vaccines don’t prevent all illnesses, reputable facilities require up-to-date vaccinations to follow laws and reduce the risk of diseases. Some facilities also require a fecal test to check for parasites like giardia or worms, helping prevent the spread of these infections. Be sure to plan ahead and submit all required paperwork, including vaccination records and fecal test results, well in advance of your dog's stay.

Trained Staff Make All the Difference

Not all boarding facilities have trained professionals caring for the dogs. The best ones invest in knowledgeable staff who:

• Understand canine behavior – Staff should be trained in dog body language, group play dynamics, and conflict prevention. Ask how much training the staff has and what’s required to be a work as a supervisor.
• Supervise play and rest areas – Dogs from different households should never be left unsupervised together, especially in group play settings. Trained staff should always be present to monitor interactions and prevent conflicts.
• Communicate with owners – A great facility will send updates and be available for any questions or concerns. Many facilities will send home report cards so you can stay on top of your dog’s behaviors; maybe even a fun photo!

Look for PACCC Certification

A key indicator of a high-quality boarding facility is PACCC (Professional Animal Care Certification Council) certification. PACCC is an independent organization that certifies pet care professionals through rigorous testing, ensuring they meet the highest standards in animal care, safety, and handling. Choosing a facility with PACCC-certified staff means your pet is in the hands of trained, knowledgeable professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in pet care. If a facility boasts PACCC-certified team members, it’s a strong sign of their dedication to industry best practices.

A Comfortable & Enriching Environment

Boarding shouldn’t feel like a punishment—it should feel like a vacation for your dog. Think of it like sending your kids to summer camp, where they get to enjoy a fun and stimulating environment. Just like camp, dog boarding is all about the experience! While professional facilities can’t exactly replicate the comforts of home, they should be clean, safe, and designed to offer engaging activities. Look for:

• Comfortable accommodations – Climate-controlled spaces, cozy bedding, and personal space for each dog. I love facilities with heated floors!
• Avoiding kennel/cage-free boarding – While cage-free boarding may sound appealing, it’s important to understand the potential risks. In these environments, dogs from different families are often housed together, which can lead to unnecessary stress. Not all dogs are suited for open sleeping or play environments and a lack of separation options can result in some dogs feeling overwhelmed or unsafe. It’s important to choose a facility where dogs are appropriately supervised and housed in secure, individual spaces when not engaging in play or socialization.
• Structured exercise – Dogs need exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation, not just a kennel stay. Plus, not all dogs are group social; and that’s okay! Some facilities offer extra walks or treadmill time for dogs needing individual exercise.
• Enrichment activities – Progressive facilities are going beyond traditional boarding by offering a range of enrichment options to meet the diverse needs of dogs. These can include activities like puzzle toys and scent games to stimulate your dog’s mind, obedience training sessions, or personalized one-on-one playtime to ensure your dog stays active, engaged, and happy during their stay.

Personalized Care for Every Dog’s Needs

Every dog is unique, and a great boarding facility recognizes this. Make sure they can accommodate:

• Dietary requirements – Will they follow your dog’s usual feeding schedule and food preferences? Dogs can get an upset stomach from switching food, best to feed the same brand from home if possible.
• Exercise preferences – Does your dog prefer group play, solo walks, or customized activities?
• Medical needs – If your pup requires medication, the staff should be trained to administer it properly. Does your dog have allergies? What protocols are in place for dogs with special needs?

Reputation Matters: Do Your Research

Before booking, take the time to vet the facility:

• Read online reviews – Look for consistent positive feedback from pet owners. Not all reviews are 5-star but the overall percentage of satisfied pet parents is important.
• Choosing award-winning pet facilities – Pet facilities that have earned local awards often stand out for their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. These awards are typically given based on feedback from the community, recognition from industry professionals, and consistent service quality.
• Ask for recommendations – Your vet or fellow dog owners may have trusted suggestions.
• Tour the facility – A reputable business will welcome visitors and be transparent about their operations.

Final Thoughts

Leaving your dog behind doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience. By choosing a boarding facility that prioritizes safety, professional care, and personalized attention, you can enjoy your time away knowing your pup is in great hands.