FAQs

Pay us a visit any day after 10.30 am and see for yourself what makes BCK so unique.
To give you our full attention please telephone to find a time convenient for us both.

What should I bring?

Does my dog need the kennel cough vaccination?

Can you put my mind at rest? I am really nervous as my pet has never boarded before

What happens if my pet needs a vet?

What happens if I am delayed and can't pick up my pet at the pre-arranged time?

What will you feed my pet?

When will you feed my pet?

If I bring my own food, will there be a discount?

Can I bring my Pet Treats?

My pet is on medication, will that be a problem?

Are you open over Christmas?

I am worried about kennel cough; can you tell me more about it?

I have other questions not covered here, can you answer them for me?.

Yes, please call us on: - 01964 544473 and we will answer any further questions you may have.

 

What should I bring?

You need to bring your dog/dogs into BCK on a secure collar/harness and lead and your cats securely fastened in their cat carriers.

Your pet's vaccination card, showing that they are up to date with their vaccinations. Any medication/ supplements with written instructions for its use. We provide beds and bedding, so you do not need to bring anything unless you feel your pet would benefit from the familiarity of it. You are welcome to bring toys and blankets if you wish. Please be aware that while we will do our best to return any possessions you bring, they are left entirely at your own risk. Any misplaced items not collected within 4 weeks of the departure date will be disposed of.

Does my dog need the kennel cough vaccination?

No. BCK have always recommended the ‘controversial’ Canine cough vaccination, (KC) but have always allowed you to make a decision as to what you feel is best for your pet, taking into account the health / wellbeing of both you and your dog. The vaccination does not protect against every strain of cough there is, so even after having the vaccination, they could still contract it. (Similar to the human flu vaccine). If you wish to give your dog the live shedding Canine cough (KC) vaccination, please ensure it is administered, at least 3 weeks prior to their arrival at BCK. As a responsible kennel owner I’m afraid we cannot accept your dog for boarding, if your dog is coughing before their stay with us or the live KC vaccine has just been administered.

Can you put my mind at rest? I am really nervous as my pet has never boarded before.

As a result of the special hands-on care given by competent & well-trained staff, the quality of the facility with its comfortable accommodation, and the amount of personalized activities we offer, our guests adapt very well and enjoy the wonderful experience of being part of our family. You are always welcome to telephone or email us to enquire on how they are settling in. Also, you can check into our Facebook page where we post regular albums of our guests.

What happens if my pet needs a vet?

If we feel your pet needs veterinary attention whilst in our care, we will notify you or your contact and take him or her to our local vet who would liaise as necessary with your own veterinary practice. Treatment would be covered under our insurance as long as the condition was not pre-existing. Sometimes we need to ask vets for advice regarding a pet’s health, please inform your vet you pet is staying at BCK and give them your permission to discuss your pet medical history with us.

What happens if I am delayed and can't pick up my pet at the pre-arranged time?

Arrangements can be made for a friend or relative to collect, providing we have your authorization, and the name, telephone number and address of the person collecting on your behalf. Alternatively, please notify us and we can arrange to board your pet longer in our emergency facilities if no other suitable lodges are available.

What will you feed my pet?

We feed whatever food your pet receives at home. In most cases we can get that food into stock for you, with the exception of a prescription diet, supermarket/pet shop/internet own brand or home cooked diet, these diets you will need to provide. Please notify us, at least two weeks’ before boarding your pet of any dietary changes, as we do not keep all foods in stock all the time.

When will you feed my pet?

We endeavour to follow whatever your feeding regime is at home, we can accommodate time critical meals.

If I bring my own food, will there be a discount?

No. In cases where preparation is time consuming there may be an additional charge.

Can I bring my Pet Treats?

We provide bedtime treats for your pets. You are welcome to bring your pet’s favourite treat's, Dentastix, Dreamies, Crakerjack, etc., etc

My pet is on medication, will that be a problem?

We are able to administer medication, for none contagious/infectious conditions. Pills, ears and eye drops and insulin injections. Please provide enough medication for their stay, and a little extra in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as delays in your return. If medication needs to be given out of normal opening hours there may be an additional charge.

Are you open over Christmas?

Yes, however the office is closed for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Eve and New Year’s Day for arrivals and departures. We charge double rates for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

I am worried about kennel cough, can you tell me more about it?

"Kennel cough" is also known as "Infectious Respiratory Disease" or "Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis"

What are the symptoms?

A harsh dry cough, usually brought on by exercise or excitement.

Retching after coughing (it sounds as if there's something stuck in the dog's throat).

Sneezing and nasal discharge.

Symptoms can vary greatly between dogs. Generally, dogs remain bright and active with a normal appetite, although some dogs may develop a fever and become depressed. In severe cases it may progress to bronchopneumonia. Young, old or infirm dogs are most at risk.

What is it?

An infectious cough caused by a mixture of viruses and bacteria. The main one is a bacterium called Bordetella bronchiseptica.

How is it spread?

It is airborne.

It can be caught anywhere dogs meet, including parks, dog shows, and vet waiting rooms, not just kennels.

Dogs can spread it without showing signs of having it.

It usually takes 5-14 days from catching it for a dog to start coughing.

Dogs can be infectious up to 3 months after recovery.

What do I do if my dog starts coughing?

Don't worry: it usually sounds worse than it is.

Most dogs can fight it off themselves (as we would a cold or the flu) within 7-14 days.

If you have any concerns at all contact your vet.

Remove collars and leads so as not to apply direct pressure to the airway.

Keep your dog away from other dogs so as not to spread the cough.

If your dog has recently been in kennels, let them know. They can then advise other customers there may be a risk and take precautions to minimise the spread.

Be aware there may be other causes for coughing. These include, but are not limited to: heart problems, injury to throat, lung worm and inhalation of chemicals or irritant gases.

What about vaccination?

The Bordetella or "Kennel cough" vaccination is sprayed up the nose.

It is not 100% effective. there are many differing strains of infection and the majority of these are not covered by the vaccine.

Some dogs detest the vaccination, making it difficult to administer.

The live vaccine can affect you. if you suffer from an autoimmune disease.

The vaccination is advised if your pet travels a lot, visits dog shows or stays in kennels, as anywhere where large numbers of dogs congregate the disease can spread rapidly.

The vaccination should be administered at least 3 weeks prior to boarding at kennels.

At BCK we do not insist upon the vaccination, but allow you to make a decision as to what you feel is best for you and your pet. However, if your pet will tolerate it, we would strongly recommend you to get your pet vaccinated.

For further information about Kennel Cough, please contact your vet.

 

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