The last thing you want to worry about while you're on holidays is whether your pet is being treated well at the boarding kennel. But a bit of forward preparation and careful selection of the right facility will put your mind at ease.

Here are a few questions to ask your kennel:

1. Where will my pet be kept while it's boarding? How big is
the accommodation? Will my pet be sharing with another pet?

2. What will my pet experience in a day? How long do the pets spend indoors and outdoors each day? Are the pets let out together? Is there climate control?

3. Does the regular fee cover playtime, walks and grooming?

4. Are inspections welcomed?

5. Do you separate pets that aren't desexed or are antisocial?

6. How often is each animal checked over? Do you keep a
record of eating, drinking, urination and defecation?

7. If my pet gets sick, can it go to my usual vet or do I have to
use your vet? What will this cost?

8. What food will my pet be given? Can I provide it with a special diet? Will it be eating alone or sharing with others?

9. What are the vaccination requirements? Are most pets wormed and de-flead?

10. Are there any diseases in your area we should know about?

Tips:

• Some kennels don't let the animals play outside during the day unless you pay extra, so ask! 
• If they won't let you inspect, it's best to go elsewhere. 
• Keep in mind older pets will need extra monitoring. 
• Make sure there is access to a vet in case of an emergency.

For more great pet advice, check out the latest issue of New Idea - on sale now!