Kennel Recommendation within 30 miles of Madison?

[mrcoolmrcool28]

Had my dogs at Waggin' Tails and came home to two sick dogs.

[rk2]

Originally Posted by gold*dust1

FYI, the Spawoof location, previously housed the Dane County Humane Society for many years. I wonder how Aunt B's manages that many trips outside? What were their rooms like? Did you see any small breeds there?

Now that you mention it K9's kennels were enclosed around the sides, but the outside runs were open to others I think. I can't imagine leaving them at this time of year. It's too cold.

Just wanted to clarify Camp K-9's situation, as I have boarded my dog there for 3 years now (after being referred by multiple friends and veterinarians in the area) ... Each dog has their own individual room, where they do have the privacy of not seeing a dog next to them. Each dog has their own private outside patio which connects to their room, however these patios are only accessed during "nice" weather and when the staff is at the kennel to monitor everyone is safe. It's nice because the dogs can lay out in the sun/shade, and have the opportunity to be out of their room during the day whenever they want. Ultimately, the patios are not accessed in the winter, as the buildings are heated. Camp K9 also has huge outdoor yards that all the dogs go play in 3 times per day (which is included in the price), and is a great bonus for every dog that stays there!

[rk2]

Originally Posted by gold*dust1

We boarded our 12 year old Golden there towards the end of '06. When I made the reservation I was under the impression they had separate runs for older and small breeds. Upon arrival the girl who checked us in looked at me blankly when I inquired about the senior dog facilities and mumbled that wasn't available. She then asked if we wanted to come along while she put him in his run, like it wouldn't be necessary.

We tagged along and found out his run area was very chaotic, like many boarding kennels (to be fair) are. I was nervously commenting how bad I felt leaving him and mentioned his age, and she just didn't seem very caring and seemed bored with her job. I just wonder how much personal attention he got. I felt like he was a number.

Our Golden passed that very next year and so maybe the guilt I felt at leaving him has soured my view of K9. I know they are adequate.

Since the OP mentioned having a Jack Russell, (fairly small breed) I feel the need to say K9 wouldn't be the best fit IMO. I have 2 toy breeds now and actually took them along on our last vacation, rather than boarding them. I just think with the smaller breeds especially, they need more attention and care. Of course cats are very independent and don't have to have alot of human contact.

I hope that you'll be able to give Camp K9 another try--I've boarded there for over 3 years, and won't board anywhere else. The facility is always clean, I absolutely love the staff, there are a variety of accommodations for any dog be it small, large, old, active, etc.

The last time I boarded (which was a few weeks ago after the all the snow melted), my playful dog had apparently had too much fun in the playyards at one point, and the staff just gave her a bath and brushed her out because they didn't want her to be dirty when I picked her up! One of my friends has a little shih-tzu and boarded there--upon picking her up the staff told her they ended up sitting with her dog and hand feeding her each meal--that was the only way she'd eat! They seem to take the time to know their guests, their personalities, and know how to care for each type of dog.

My dog practically drags me into the office every time I have to check her in. I just can't say enough good about them, so I hope someday you'll at least go back there. I've come to know the staff quite well, and they would feel terrible thinking you were uncomfortable leaving your dog in their care, and would do everything they could to make sure you were worry-free on your vacation.

[gold*dust1]

Originally Posted by rk2

I hope that you'll be able to give Camp K9 another try--I've boarded there for over 3 years, and won't board anywhere else. The facility is always clean, I absolutely love the staff, there are a variety of accommodations for any dog be it small, large, old, active, etc.

The last time I boarded (which was a few weeks ago after the all the snow melted), my playful dog had apparently had too much fun in the playyards at one point, and the staff just gave her a bath and brushed her out because they didn't want her to be dirty when I picked her up! One of my friends has a little shih-tzu and boarded there--upon picking her up the staff told her they ended up sitting with her dog and hand feeding her each meal--that was the only way she'd eat! They seem to take the time to know their guests, their personalities, and know how to care for each type of dog.

My dog practically drags me into the office every time I have to check her in. I just can't say enough good about them, so I hope someday you'll at least go back there. I've come to know the staff quite well, and they would feel terrible thinking you were uncomfortable leaving your dog in their care, and would do everything they could to make sure you were worry-free on your vacation.

Thanks for your concern and funny you would post today, but I will be switiching gears and choosing Aunt B's for a day of doggy daycare real soon.

I have 2 small breeds now, and Aunt B's has seperate cottages for the dogs with a kitchen and couch etc.

I just didn't like the vibe I got at K9, but that is me.

I will post a review later.