Choosing a pet boarding kennel for your pet can feel daunting, especially when you’re unsure if they’ll provide the care your furry friend deserves. If you notice red flags and decide to ask questions, some kennels may respond with dodgy excuses. Here are 10 common excuses kennels might use to justify their shortcomings and why you shouldn’t accept them.
1. 🚩 Overcrowded or Unhygienic Facilities
Dodgy Excuse: “We’re just really popular, and it’s hard to keep up when business is booming.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Overcrowding compromises your pet’s safety and health. A responsible kennel should never sacrifice hygiene and space for profit.
2. 🚩 No Access to Outdoor Play Areas
Dodgy Excuse: “Not all pets like the outdoors, so we focus on keeping them comfortable indoors.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Regular outdoor time is crucial for a pet’s physical and mental health. A lack of outdoor access indicates inadequate facilities.
3. 🚩 Lack of Staff Presence or Supervision
Dodgy Excuse: “Our staff are trained to check in on pets periodically rather than hovering over them.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Pets require consistent supervision to prevent accidents or stress-related behaviors.
4. 🚩 No Emergency Plans or Access to Veterinary Care
Dodgy Excuse: “We’ve never had an emergency before, so we don’t see the need for a formal plan.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Emergencies are unpredictable. A lack of preparedness could jeopardize your pet’s safety.
5. 🚩 Low Staff-to-Pet Ratio
Dodgy Excuse: “Our staff are highly experienced, so they can handle more pets than average.”
Why It’s Dodgy: No matter how experienced, one person can only give limited attention to each pet. A high ratio means less care and supervision for your furry friend.
6. 🚩 Poor Reviews or Lack of Accreditation
Dodgy Excuse: “We’re a hidden gem that doesn’t rely on reviews or fancy certifications.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Reviews and accreditation provide transparency and accountability. Lack of either raises questions about the kennel’s standards.
7. 🚩 Unwillingness to Allow Tours
Dodgy Excuse: “We don’t allow tours to avoid disturbing the pets’ routine.”
Why It’s Dodgy: A responsible kennel should always be open to showing you their facilities. Refusal could mean they’re hiding something.
8. 🚩 Hidden Fees or Unclear Pricing
Dodgy Excuse: “We tailor our pricing based on the pet’s needs, so it’s hard to give an exact cost upfront.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Transparency is key. Ambiguity in pricing can lead to unexpected charges.
9. 🚩 Lack of Proper Pet Monitoring Systems
Dodgy Excuse: “We’ve been doing this for years and can tell if something is wrong without fancy gadgets.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Modern monitoring systems provide an additional layer of safety and accountability, especially in emergencies.
10. 🚩 Poorly Maintained or Unsafe Enclosures
Dodgy Excuse: “Pets don’t care about aesthetics as long as they’re safe and comfortable.”
Why It’s Dodgy: Maintenance isn’t just about looks; it’s about safety. Poorly maintained enclosures can lead to injuries or escapes.
Ask the Tough Questions
When choosing a kennel, don’t be afraid to dig deeper and question anything that doesn’t sit right. A trustworthy facility will be transparent and responsive to your concerns.
💬 Have you heard any dodgy excuses from kennels? Share your story in the comments or email us at feedback@petcloud.com.au.
