Private Dog Boarding in PA (vet, kennel, home, cheap)

[LindaMaier]

There are many ads out their from private people ready to watch your dog in their home when you go away on vacation. Do these people have to have a kennel license? Does anyone know?

[shadowne]

I don't know about PA but I'm guessing no. Honestly I would never feel comfortable leaving my dog with someone I didn't know and REALLY trust. That being said, if you are looking for someone, perhaps checking with a dog club, veterinarians, etc. might be trustworthy referrals.

[willow wind]

Highly unlikely that they have a kennel license. Also unlikely that they are insured, bonded or securely fenced. Find a good, reliable boarding kennel that also offers doggy day care as part of a boarding package. You dog will be kept active, amused and safe.

If you absolutely won't use a boarding kennel, check with your vet. Some have vet techs that may offer home boarding or will house sit at your place.

[Hopes]

I'd rather my dog was watched in a private home. Like others have motioned, there are ways to verify if they are responsible dog handlers. If you can't find someone via referrals, you can do your own research on the ones who advertise. Get their resume. I'm sure some of them are vet techs, and you can verify with their employer. You can visit their home ahead of time to check out the environment.

[Randmness]

I personally like to use DogVacay. Your dog gets boarded in a private home. Many times, the people carry insurance for incidentals. It's considerably cheaper than boarding at the local boarding facility, and I feel like I get more out of it.