When you find a pet hotel with good reviews, you still need to check if the place suits the needs and wants of your pets and yours as well.
Here are some factors to considerChoose a place that is conveniently located and easy to access. Ideally not too far from your home or workplace for pickup and dropoff. Bonus points if it's near a vet clinic or hospital in case of any emergencies.
If the location is further than what you are comfortable driving or have a super early flight, getting a pet taxi is an option to consider. Some pet hotels offer this service too.
Do you and your pet prefer if the pet hotel is more like a hotel or more like a home? Check their social media or website for photos and videos of the premises. This gives a rough idea of the size, cleanliness, safety, and overall condition of the facility.
It's also important to find out where the pets will stay, play, eat, and relieve themselves. The most common types are kennels, cubicles, or rooms. Some pets prefer grass and others, pee pads or the floor.
Some premises have gated and guarded communities, check-in areas, 24/7 CCTV, and other security measures and procedures too.
Different pets have different preferences, so make sure the pet hotel can accommodate your pet's needs. Chat with the staff before requesting to visit as it saves time and effort.
Ask about the credentials or experience of the staff in handling the characteristics and behaviours similar to your pet. Not all pet hotels accept medium and large pets.
Some pets require medication, are timid and skittish, have bad separation anxiety, have multiple feeding schedules, have the tendency to run away, etc.
The more information you can share about your pet with the staff, the better care they can receive. You can gauge if the staff feels confident in handling your pet from their response and by meeting them physically.
Find out what is their maximum capacity and how many staff are present at any given time, to ensure individual attention and care for each pet. From our experience as the #1 pet boarding place in Subang Jaya, it is a maximum of 10 pets to 1 staff.
It is essential to consider the services offered by the pet hotel too. Some have grooming, training, walking, or even adventures. There are special needs and elderly care too.
For some pet hotels, food is not often provided as different pets have different needs, allergies, and preferences.
Make sure to inquire about the available options for adequate exercise, playtime, and socialization with other pets.
Price is the biggest factor for some. Always choose a pet hotel that fits your budget and what you feel is value for money.
One of the ways that a pet hotel charges for boarding services is either per day or per night like hotels do. It also includes the pet's size and/or weight. Additional charges can come in the form of service on public holidays, peak seasons, etc. It varies from place to place.
PRO TIP: If you are certain you will book a long stay, remember to ask about any discounts or special rates that may be available.
The longer the stay is, the more likely the pet hotel will offer you one.
There are even some pet hotels that sell bundles or deductible credits. Our advice is to buy these packages when you trust the pet hotel and its staff, after a few times trying them out. Do not do this impulsively because it saves you money.
Sometimes what you get is what you pay for.
Most pet hotels have strict business/operating hours. Some have meet and greet sessions. Read their terms and conditions.
If you know you are the type of person who prefers last-minute bookings or is always late, find out what additional fees if there are any.
Choosing a pet hotel is not as easy as just following the best reviews. There are several factors to consider like the location, premises, staff, services, price, policies and procedures of the facility.
Before making a decision, take the time to visit the facility, ask questions, and gather all the information you need to make an informed choice. Your furbabies deserve the best, so don't hesitate to engage further and ensure their well-being during their stay.