It sounds stern, and it almost never matters, because a phone call prevents it.
What the clause says in plain words
If you cannot pick up your pet on the scheduled date, call the kennel. If a pet is still unclaimed 10 days after the pick-up date and the owner has not made contact, the kennel considers it abandoned. The kennel will try to reach the owner first, and it may find a new home for the pet. The clause is one of eight in the agreement.
Why a kennel needs it
A boarding facility has limited space and a duty of care to every animal. Without a rule, a pet could stay indefinitely with no one responsible for its future. California law requires facilities to keep written policies and to notify owners about their pets, and the clause gives the kennel a clear process for the rare case that an owner disappears.
How to stay clear of it
Call 707-678-6600 as soon as plans change. Keep an emergency contact who is not traveling with you, who may pick up your pet and who knows your wishes. Update the kennel when your phone number or email changes. If a medical event, a delayed flight or a closed road interrupts your trip, a short message is enough to show you are in touch. Stays beyond four weeks have a card on file charged every two weeks.
Related entries
Read emergency contact, boarding agreement and what if I am delayed coming back. The full text is on the boarding agreement page.
Where to read the exact words
The kennel's boarding agreement is a four-page PDF, and the clause sits on page one among eight numbered terms. The wording is short. If you have a question about it, ask at the office or call before you sign. The agreement also says it stays in effect until revoked in writing, so a change of mind needs to be put on paper. Keep your own copy.
In practice, almost all owners return on time. The clause is there for the rare case and it comes with an effort to reach you first.