As a dog owner, your pet's safety and happiness are always top priorities. But what happens when you need to leave your dog in someone else's care? With the rise of unlicensed pet boarding services advertised on social media, it's never been more important to make informed choices about who looks after your furry friend.
In this blog post, we'll explore the critical reasons why opting for a licensed home boarder is the safest choice for your dog. We'll also shed light on the risks of using unlicensed services and share key facts from The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) 2018 legislation to help you make the best decision for your pet.
The Rise of Unlicensed Pet Boarding on Social Media
It's becoming increasingly common to see posts in local social media groups advertising pet boarding services. While these offers might seem convenient or cheaper, they often come from unlicensed individuals who may not meet the necessary standards of care. This trend is worrying, as entrusting your dog to an unlicensed boarder could put them at serious risk.
Why Licensing Matters: Seven Reasons to Choose a Licensed Home Boarder
1. Strict Protocols and Procedures:
Licensed home boarders must adhere to rigorous standards set out by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). These protocols ensure that your dog receives proper care, including appropriate feeding, exercise, and living conditions. Regular inspections help ensure these standards are consistently met.
2. Comprehensive Insurance:
Licensed boarders are required to have comprehensive insurance, covering accidents, injuries, or illnesses that might occur while your dog is in their care. Unlicensed boarders cannot obtain this insurance, leaving your dog vulnerable and you without recourse if something goes wrong.
3. Experience, Knowledge, and Qualifications:
To become licensed, home boarders must demonstrate that they have the necessary experience, knowledge, and qualifications in animal welfare and canine first aid. This ensures they can handle a wide range of situations, from routine care to emergencies.
4. Home Adjustments for Safety:
Licensed boarders must make specific adjustments to their homes to ensure they meet health and safety standards. This includes secure fencing, safe sleeping areas, and clean, sanitary conditions. Unlicensed boarders often lack these safeguards, putting your dog at risk.
5. Detailed Record-Keeping and Emergency Plans:
Licensed home boarders are required to keep detailed records for every dog in their care, including vaccination and health history, to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. They must also have emergency plans in place, ensuring they are prepared for any unexpected situations.
6. Registration with Local Vets:
Licensed boarders must register as a business with their local vet, ensuring they have immediate access to veterinary care in case of emergencies. This critical step is often overlooked by unlicensed individuals, which could delay crucial medical treatment for your dog.
7. Public Registers and Reporting:
Local council websites maintain a public register of licensed pet boarding establishments within the borough. This resource allows you to verify whether a home boarder is licensed and operating legally. If you suspect someone is boarding dogs without a license, you can report them to your local authority's licensing department. This helps protect the welfare of all pets in your community.
The Risks of Unlicensed Pet Boarding
Choosing an unlicensed boarder can have severe consequences. For instance, if you use an unlicensed service, your own pet insurance may be invalidated, leaving you without financial protection if something goes wrong. Moreover, the unlicensed boarder will not have the necessary insurance to cover your dog's care, meaning they aren't held accountable by any regulatory body.
In some cases, dogs found in the care of unlicensed individuals may be removed by authorities and placed in kennels until the situation is resolved. This can be a distressing experience for both you and your dog.
Tragically, there have been cases where unlicensed boarders failed to provide adequate care, leading to disastrous outcomes. A recent article from a UK publication highlighted one such case, where a beloved pet died due to the neglect of an unlicensed boarder. The owner was left heartbroken, with no legal recourse, as the boarder was not held accountable under any licensing regulations. This heart breaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of choosing a licensed home boarder.
Keeping Our Dogs Safe: Make the Right Choice
Your dog's safety and well-being are too important to leave to chance. Always choose a licensed home boarder who meets the high standards set by The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) 2018 legislation. Not only does this ensure your dog is in safe, capable hands, but it also provides you with peace of mind, knowing that your pet is protected by comprehensive care standards and insurance.
Before making a decision, check your local council's public register of licensed establishments, and if you have any concerns about unlicensed boarders, report them to your local authority. Together, we can raise awareness and keep our dogs safe from the risks associated with unlicensed pet boarding.
Remember, when it comes to your dog's care, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Choose a licensed home boarder, and give your furry friend the best care possible.
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