How to Observe Animals in Boarding Kennels
To ensure the health and well-being of animals in boarding kennels, you need to identify risk factors and prevent problems before they turn into emergencies. One of the simplest and best methods for determining the status of kenneled dogs and cats is performing a systematic observation that you can do before you ever open a cage.
- Enter the room or area of the facility where you have kenneled animals. Stop in the entrance, and take a deep breath. Note any smells in the air. Kenneled animals will have odors, but in a clean kennel full of healthy animals, there should not be scents of rot or sickly sweet odors. Additionally, strong smells of waste or old food indicate that the kennel needs cleaning. You need to identify the source of any unusual smell and address it.
- Listen to the animals. Kenneled dogs will move around and bark. Kenneled cats may meow or move to hide. If the animals are very quiet or you hear moaning or whimpering, you should investigate to see if you can find a problem.
- Take a look at each animal before opening any cages. Note the animal's general attitude. Is he bright, alert and responsive or subdued and hiding? Is he growling at you? Do you see any limping or visible injury? Healthy animals should be very aware of you and respond to your observation. The specific response, however, will depend on personality. Friendly dogs will usually wag their tails and try to get your attention. Many cats will hide and watch you suspiciously. Note any unusual or changed behavior, as this could indicate a problem.
- Note appetite and thirst. With cats and free fed dogs, you should note how much food and water remains in the cage. For animals who eat regulated meals, you will note appetite at each feeding and thirst by the state of the water bowl. Changes in appetite or thirst can indicate problems.
- Look for any waste in the cage. Does it appear normal? Are stools formed? Note any abnormalities, and follow up on them.
- Look for any vomit, blood or other abnormalities in each cage. Follow up on these immediately.
- Check for general cleanliness and comfort. Make sure the animal has adequate bedding and that he cannot escape from the cage or injure himself.