What Safety Checks, Permits, and Credentials Should You Look for in Dog Boarding?

If you’re planning a holiday or even just a quick weekend away, knowing your dog will be happy and safe at a boarding kennels can put your mind at ease. But with so many options in places like Glasgow’s West End or just a train ride away in Edinburgh, Aberdeen, or Dundee how do you know which places truly put your dog’s safety first? This guide will walk you through what to look for when it comes to safety checks, required permits, and professional credentials at dog boarding facilities. Understanding these essentials will help you find a caring, trustworthy home-from-home for your furry friend.

Licensing and Local Permits: The Basics You Can’t Ignore

Every boarding kennel or cattery in Scotland must be licensed by the local council. This isn’t just a formality these licences mean an official has checked the facilities for things like cleanliness, escape-proof fencing, and proper care routines. For example, if you’re considering a kennel in West End or anywhere else in Glasgow, ask to see their council licence. A current licence should be proudly displayed at the reception or office. If they’re cagey about showing you, walk away. This check is just as important if you’re searching in Aberdeen, Dundee, or Edinburgh.

• Red flag: Unlicensed boarding kennels are operating illegally and may compromise your dog’s wellbeing.
• What to ask: “Can I see your council licence and its expiration date?”

Safety Checks: Cleanliness, Staffing, and Secure Facilities

The right dog boarding centre will be open and honest about its day-to-day safety routines. Start with a proper visit never just drop your dog off sight unseen. Here’s what to look out for when you visit kennels in Glasgow’s West End or other major Scottish cities:

Some centres will even show you a sample daily schedule for dogs, with times for exercise, feeding, and quiet naps this means they’ve thought about your dog’s routine too.

Insurance and Professional Credentials

Always check if the kennels have public liability insurance and cover for dog health emergencies. Reliable businesses in Glasgow, as well as places in Edinburgh or Aberdeen, will be happy to show proof. Some staff may also hold animal care or canine first aid certificates these are the types who will spot a problem early or know what to do if your dog’s having a funny turn.

• Ask if staff are qualified: National Certificate in Animal Care, pet first aid certificates, or similar training is a big plus.
• Insurance: Make sure cover includes illness, injury, and public liability. This protects both your dog and the boarding facility.

Health Requirements and Record Keeping

Reputable dog boarding in the West End or nearby won’t just say yes to every booking they’ll request up-to-date vaccination records (think kennel cough, parvovirus, and so on). They should also have a written register of all dogs on-site, contact details for your vet, and a way to reach you if there’s an emergency. While it might feel a bit like paperwork overload, this is a sign they care.

A quality kennel will also ask about your dog’s behaviour, health quirks, and feeding preferences it’s not just nosiness, they want your pet to be comfortable and safe.

Summary

Choosing a dog boarding facility is about peace of mind for you and safety for your pup. Always insist on a current council licence, check for security and cleanliness, expect proof of insurance, and make sure the staff have relevant experience or training. If you’re in Glasgow’s West End or considering other big cities like Edinburgh, Dundee, or Aberdeen, use these standards to guide your choice. Your dog will thank you with wagging tails and happy, tired eyes once you’re reunited.