A good boarding facility is run by committed people whose primary focus is caring for your animal companions.

As such, at a good boarding facility, the staff will have a great deal of experience in all areas of animal handling and care.

If you're away from home and unable to look after your pet, you should consider what the best way is for them to be cared for while you're away.

This may be taking them with you or may be having a family member or friend look after them - this all depends on your pet and your circumstances. If you choose to take them with you on a road trip, you can refer to our tips on the RSPCA Knowledgebase.

However, choosing a boarding facility is one way of making sure that your pets are properly cared for at all times.

A good boarding facility will get to know your pet and consider whether there is appropriate opportunity to socialise your pet with other animals, but you should be clear if you don't think it is suitable for your pet due to behaviour or medical reasons.

Cats are generally housed in individual areas and it's important to keep them away from stressful situations (such as being away from the dog kennels).

Before you book

Before making a reservation, it's important to visit the facility.

This will give you the chance to tour the facility and make sure you're comfortable with the space and general condition of the surroundings including cleanliness, ventilation and light.

Most facilities have different sized rooms and spaces depending on the animal, so it's important you see in person to decide the best fit.

This will also give you a chance to ask the staff about their daily procedures for providing food and water, exercising, cleaning and observation/care of the animals.

It's important to be aware of the protocols and procedures the facility has in place to manage medical emergencies.

Also ensure they have a good relationship with a veterinarian either on site or in close proximity to the facility.

Lastly, check that there's good security around the facility. Are there fences and enclosures installed to prevent the pets from running away? Also, see if there are security cameras for the extra safety of the pets.

After you book

To ensure your pet is fully prepared there are some key things to remember such as making sure your pet is up to date with their vaccinations - most facilities typically require proof of vaccinations so be sure to ask about the requirements and confirm with your vet that all vaccinations are up to date.

You should also provide clear instructions from your veterinarian regarding medication or special food (if any), ensure your pet is microchipped and all details are up to date on the microchip register, and provide contact details of your veterinarian and emergency contact.

If you are leaving your pet for an extended period, you may want to do a test run for one night to allow your companion animal to get familiar with the surroundings and prep them for a longer stay.

This is a good chance for you and the facility to talk through anything additional your pet needs to feel relaxed and comfortable.

Give yourself plenty of time to find the facility that is right for you, and book ahead.

The better facilities can fill up very quickly during busy periods, and you do not want to miss out on a place for your best friend.

If you are looking for a boarding facility, some RSPCA shelters provide boarding services for privately owned animals. You'll find contact details and further information on the website of your local RSPCA.

You can also contact veterinary clinics in your area; many clinics provide boarding services for pets onsite at the clinic or they may be able to provide advice about other facilities.

For more information on finding a boarding facility and on all areas of companion animal care, visit the RSPCA Knowledgebase.