Board and Train - After the decision is made

(See problems with Board and Train solutions)

Give post dated checks in incremented amounts. If training is discontinued, you won’t lose all your money.

Keep a copy of any paper work including: the contract, phone numbers & contact information, receipts, canceled checks and anything else.

Have your dog microchipped, or tattooed for identification.

Consult local laws regarding liability concerning dog bites/attacks, or any other foreseeable accidents that could happen while your dog is under the care of someone else.

Make sure you talk directly to the person who will be in charge of feeding special diet or administering medication if possible. Be very specific about how the medication is to be given, how often, with or without food etc. (this should be included within your contract as well). Label everything on medication, including name, directions, etc.

Contract

Veterinary care

When Things Go Wrong

Contract

A contract is a good way to make sure both parties agree to the same things, and when this is decided ahead of time it can save future disputes.

Read the contract carefully. Keep in mind, that whoever creates the contract creates it to protect themselves. A contract is only an agreement. Don't be afraid to have someone else look at the contract, or make modifications. Ensure both parties sign the changes on all copies.

Think about including the following:

You should be able to remove your dog from the facility at any time regardless of progress, with in normal operating hours. Remember: in case of dispute, you have legal right to claim your dog, no matter what a contract says.

You should be able to make prearranged appointments to visit your dog.

You should be able to contact the consultant about your dog within a reasonable time frame (say with 24 hours of leaving a message).

The welfare of your dog should always been kept in mind. It should not have the opportunity to be attacked by any other dogs because of negligence, handler error, or equipment being used.

Food and medication requirements should be made in writing. Be very specific about how the food or medication is to be given, how often, with or without food etc.. Ask for any prescription bottles or any medication left over to be returned.

Ensure that there is something in the contract that states the dog will not have the opportunity to get into anything but his own food.

What is the desired goal of rehabilitation and what happens if consultant can’t meet those goals? Have it specified in writing i.e. the dog is returned, money is refunded

Specify whether you want written reports of progress, if possible.

Specify any follow up care, training etc. If you your dog starts showing aggression on return what is the responsibility of the consultant. Any reputable trainer will give you a good solid understanding of what you need to do to maintain any work they have done.

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Veterinary Care

Speak to your vet before going ahead with a board and train facility. Have your dog checked out, and necessary shots updated.

Some dogs lose weight when going into a kennel. Find out from your vet what can be expected, and what is a concern.

Find out the name, address and phone number of the vet that the consultant uses, as well as that of an emergency vet, if one is available.

Contact the consultant’s vet with a profile of the dog's health and behavioral issues before leaving your dog with the consultant.

Ask the consultant’s vet what types of injuries/illnesses they normally see from the consultant. If there is a high occurrence of certain problems (bites, urinary problems due to lack of water etc.), this is good enough reason for you not to choose the training facility, or at least to bring the topic up with the consultant. You don't want to end up with more problems than what you came with.

Finally, leave your name and number with the vet, and instruct him to call collect if he sees your dog at any time.

Obtain copies of all pertinent records from your own vet and give them to both the new vet and the consultant when you decide you are going to leave your pet in the consultant's home/facility. This should include the most recent vaccination history as well as any account of medical problems.

When your dog is returned to you, note any changes, and see your vet immediately for a checkup. If there are any concerns, request a written copy of your vet's findings. See When Things Go Wrong.

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