Our style of Kennel is certainly a lot of fun, and dogs expend energy, develop social skills and enjoy belonging to, and participating in, a friendly pack. However, there ARE particular risks associated with our style of kennel that we like to be open and transparent about so that you can make informed choices.
If you decide to allow your dog to stay with us then you must be 100% comfortable with the following.
Potential Injuries
Matching and monitoring buddies for play is something that we enjoy and excel at (see our Canine Info page). However, we are still dealing with unpredictable creatures so there will always be times when a bit of a biff or rough play causes injury to one or more over-zealous pooches. This is simply the nature of doggy play.
The potential for injury with our open-plan socialisation system is always there, we do not believe that it is possible to operate this style of kennel without having the occasional issue. But mental well-being, socialisation skills and upped fitness levels counterbalance this nicely.
If this is a deal-breaker for you, then we recommend that you consider a more traditional-style kennel for your pet. Or future-proof your hip pocket with pet insurance.
Veterinary Costs
If a dog is injured during the natural flow of play, then the cost of veterinary care is the owner’s responsibility. However, if we make an error in judgement (eg. choose the wrong playmate) and an injury occurs because of this, then we will discuss this with the owners to come to an arrangement.
We are honest, open and transparent when it comes to confessing errors in our decision-making.
If you don’t agree with our assessment, then we ask for written correspondence from your vet stating that, in their opinion, Nathalia Boarding Kennels & Cattery is responsible for the condition of your pet.
We explore some of the more common issues below.
Eyes
One drawback of having loads of robust fun & play with new buddies at NBKC is that sand, dust or other debris may lodge in an eye.
- There is also the possibility, because of environmental factors (different trees & pollens around our grounds – compared to home), that some dogs will present with eye irritations from unseen, ‘floaties’.
- Foreign matter in the eye can lead to non-infectious conjunctivitis.
- Certain breeds of dogs (eg. Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs & Miniature Schnauzers) are prone to dry eye and this can commonly lead to non-infectious conjunctivitis.
- The Purple People (staff) monitor eyes carefully and flush fishy-looking eyes with saline solution to try and rid the flotsam or jetsam lodged within. However, sometimes the irritation can take a few days to become noticeable/uncomfortable & symptoms may not show until at home.
A post-board email explains this phenomenon and provides suggestions on what to do.
| Types of Conjunctivitis | Symptoms |
| 1. Non-infectious Conjunctivitis 2. Bacterial Infection (rare) 3. Viral Infection (also rare) | ~Red or Puffy Eyes ~Eye Discharge ~Eyes Sticking together or squinting ~Swelling of the eyelid lining (the conjunctiva) ~Rubbing or pawing at the eye due to itchiness or discomfort |
| How do I know which type is it? | Only a vet test can accurately assess the type. |
Paws
Some of our yards have a river-sand base and some dogs may react to the sand – well, their paws & pads will. We don’t know why, maybe it is too abrasive for them, but we know it can happen, rarely, thankfully.
Insect bites (ants, bees) can also cause foot issues. Both with the same symptoms.
A tell-tale sign that paws are irritated is excessive licking. This licking can cause blisters on the pads if not stopped. Infection can then take hold if intervention is not promptly provided.
A post-board email explains this phenomenon and explains what to watch out for when your pet is home.
Weight
Energy in must equal energy out, and we constantly trip the light fantastic trying to find the right balance between the ‘in’ & the ‘out’, particularly for active breeds. Suffice it to say we have a few tricks up our sleeves, for instance; breakfast, weigh-ins, coconut oil, eggs, extra high-energy snacks & re-calibrating rest times.
- There is a whole lot of magic involved with balancing the energy in & out. Food intake must increase, but not at the risk of GDV (Gastric Dilation Volvulus) or Bloat. Too much, too fast can be disastrous, and not enough leads to weight loss.
- Many dogs are too excited to eat breakfast, new dogs can be shy and uncertain about what is going on. Some are naturally fussy, others are not. Every dog is different, and it can take us some time to figure out what strategy works best with each one.
- In short, we try our very best, but honestly, it can be devilishly hard to succeed at times.
- There is a small separate agreement outlining weight loss for first-timers. You can read this at your first online booking session.
- If you are bringing your own food for your dog – then please remember to ‘up’ the proportions.
If weight loss is a deal-breaker for you, then we encourage you to seek boarding at a traditional-style kennel. Less action, less fun, but the weight will remain intact.
Ligaments/Joints
Torn or damaged ligaments can happen anywhere, at any time, not just on our grounds. Admittedly, the chances are higher in our active environment – but you must be prepared to accept this risk. We do not cover medical costs for ligament damage. If you are concerned about your dog’s joints, then private pet insurance may prove to be a practical financial decision.
Gastro Type Symptoms
Dogs can be gross and will eat (or at least taste) all kinds of weird and wonderful stinky things. There are a lot of sensory delights on our grounds (naturally occurring – eg dog, bird & possum poo). If consumed, this may upset their dietary tract for a short period. We have dietary tricks up our sleeves to ease upset tummies during board. Sometimes, a gastro-type bug may begin to circulate among our guests (similar to a human preschool) and we have processes in place to inform our customers about this (post and pre-board).
Post-Board
You will receive a post-board email to remind you of the above issues. Your feedback is most welcome.
Knowing what is happening to our guests ‘post-board’ is very important to us. We love it when our customers let us know their stories (good or bad). This knowledge builds a robust platform upon which we can improve our services and customer relations.