The word comes up in state law and in kennel brochures. It is worth knowing what it should look like in practice.
The legal definition
California Health and Safety Code section 122380 defines enrichment as providing objects or activities, appropriate to the needs of the species, that stimulate the pet and promote its well-being. Section 122383 tells operators to provide each pet daily with enrichment sufficient to maintain behavioral health. Facilities must also give owners written information on the daily activity schedule.
What it can look like for a dog
Walks, time in a fenced yard, a chew, sniffing a new area or a food puzzle can all count. Happy Paws has large fenced play areas and a grass field on about 10 acres, and walks are included in the nightly rate. A lick mat adds a calm activity: the Happy Lick Mat, with peanut butter or cheese, is $4.99. A Happy Pup Cup is $4.99 and a frozen Happy Pupsicle is $7.99. See enrichment ideas from our kennel.
What it can look like for a cat
For cats, enrichment means climbing, hiding and watching. The cattery gives each cat a four-level tower, and a cat tree and cat houses add more places to play and hide. The AAFP and ISFM guidelines list play and predictable human contact among the needs of a healthy cat environment.
Paid extras
Picture play sessions are sold as add-ons, at $14.99 per kennel, or $19.99 for a bubble session. They are optional, and the kennel can tell you what is included in your stay. More: happy extras and lick mats and frozen treats.
Questions for any facility
Ask what a typical day looks like for a dog or cat: how often pets go outside, what they have to chew or climb, and what extra activities exist. The law requires the daily activity schedule to be given to owners in writing, so a good facility has an answer. At Happy Paws, 100 runs each have an outdoor area, there are large fenced play areas and a grass field, and walks are included. Ask the staff at drop-off what is planned for your pet.