A good kennel is happy to be questioned. Use this list on a tour or on the phone, and compare answers rather than prices alone.
What California law says a facility must tell you
Chapter 11 of the California Health and Safety Code covers pet boarding facilities, defined as a place where four or more pets are boarded for pay. Section 122384 says the operator must give each owner written information on:
- the days and times pets may be dropped off and picked up
- the days and times staff are onsite
- the square footage of the enclosure for the species
- routine observation of pets during each 24-hour period
- the customary daily activity schedule
Other duties worth asking about
The same chapter requires one pet per enclosure unless the owner consents, observation of each pet at least every 24 hours, water, nutritious food and daily enrichment, a written care policy and disaster policy, and immediate notice to the owner if a pet is ill or injured unless the owner has waived notice in writing. It also requires either a fire alarm connected to a central station or a fire sprinkler system.
Questions about the stay
- Can I tour the whole facility, including the runs and the area where meals are prepared?
- What vaccines do you require, and do you check records?
- How do you handle medication, and is there a fee?
- What happens if my pet gets sick or I cannot be reached?
- How do you handle a late pick-up or a delayed return?
- What is the price per night, and what does it include?
How Happy Paws answers some of these
Drop-off and pick-up windows are 7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM every day, with holiday exceptions on the hours page. Tours run daily at 9 to 11 AM and 2 to 4 PM. Run sizes are about 16 square feet inside plus 48 outside in Economy, 30 plus 60 in Business Class and 48 plus 72 in First Class. The kennel building has fire sprinklers. Vaccine rules are on the vaccination page, medications are given at no extra charge, and the boarding agreement includes a medical release that sets the order in which you are contacted. For the day's activity routine and staff coverage, ask on a tour or by phone at 707-678-6600.