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?
If I bring my own food, will there be a discount?
My pet is on medication, will that be a problem?
Does my dog need the kennel cough vaccination?
I am worried about kennel cough, can you tell me more about it?
What should I bring?
We will need to see your pet's vaccination card, showing that they are up to date with their vaccinations. If you pet is on medication please bring that and any 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 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.
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.
What happens if my pet needs a vet?
If we feel your pet needs vetinary attention whilst in our care, we would take him or her to our local vet who would liaise as necessary with your own vetinary practice. Treatment would be covered under our insurance as long as the condition was not pre-existing.
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. Alternatively please notify us and we can make arrangements 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. Please let us know and in most cases we can get that food into stock for you. Please give us at least two weeks notice before boarding your pet if the diet changes, as we do not keep all foods in stock all the time. If the diet is a prescription diet or home cooked diet you will need to provide it.
When will you feed my pet?
We endeavor to follow whatever your feeding regime is at home.
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.
My pet is on medication, will that be a problem?
We are able to administer medication, such as pills, ears and eye drops and even 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 Years Day for arrivals and departures. We charge double rates for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.
Does my dog need the kennel cough vaccination?
We do not insist that you have your dog inoculated against canine infectious bronchitis (kennel cough). We suggest you discuss this matter with your veterinary surgeon. If you decide to have this inoculation, it must be done at least 14 days prior to boarding.
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 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, but if they do catch it the symptoms may be milder and they may be less likely to develop further complications.
- Some dogs detest the vaccination, making it difficult to administer.
- 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 2 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 your pet. However, if your pet will tolerate it, we would strongly recommend you to get your pet vaccinated.