I very rarely leave my 2 golden retrievers at a kennel, but when I did, I always felt confident about leaving them at Amherst Boarding Kennel up until this last time.
My dogs were there for two nights. What I discovered when I picked them up was that my 11 year old male golden had urine along his left flank, belly and chest. There was not mention of any issues in the ""report card"" and I called when I got home. I was transferred to the kennel staff who said that actually both dogs had been bathed that morning as they had had ""accidents"".overnight. This was so unusual- I was astonished. When I pushed, asking what time they were let out, I was told the morning staff lets them out at 7:30 am. When I asked about the dog doors tthat the website states they have access to for the outside- I was told they close the dog doors at 7:30- meaning minimally- if your dog is the last dog to have the dog door closed and the first dog let out- They are without access to the outside to urinate etc. for 12 HOURS MINIMUM. So, the dogs (both are in same kennel) urinate on the floor and have to sleep in that same kennel all night. The website states:
Doggie doors make easy access for your pet to enjoy the outdoors in large runs that are covered to protect them from the elements.
When I took the tour, no mention was made of the dog door only being accessible for only 12 hours. They stated they have access to it ""all day"" when I initially asked. No one volunteered that for 12 hours it is shut.
When I expressed my dismay over this, I was told ""It's not our choice, no one wants to hear dogs barking. Blame the town of Amherst"".
The website also boasts of a treat before they are tucked into bed, insinuating a nice treat around the normal ""bedtime"" which I think most people would peg at around 9pm or later. Not too many families let the dog out for the last time at 7:30 (or earlier if your dog hadn't gone out through the dog door in a while - I'm sure all the dogs aren't encouraged to go out prior to the locking of the kennel dog door and/or if your dog is one of the first dogs who has their door locked). I think it is interesting that I wasn't told they gave the dogs a bath- It appears that more often then not, dogs must end up being in their own urine. When I stated this, I was told ""no, usually there's just a puddle that get hosed down- they may have walked in it, but usually don't lay in it.
Unfortunately I will need to find another kennel for my infrequent need.
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