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I never done it and don't know anything about boarding.
I have two crazy shelter dogs and I know if I leave just for an overnight trip they will escape from the yard. The dogs need lots of attention or they will dig out and I don't want to get an electric fence.
We would never board our dog. Most of the places here in San Diego have no staff overnight, so your dog is stuck in a tiny cage all night long, alone. Our boy is not a loner and that is not a thing for him. And, we're not fans of picking up a sick dog every time we go away.
We found an awesome organization here, called Sleep Over Rover, where you bring your dog to someone's house for the time you are gone. They must be stay at home people and home for the most part of the day. Your dog cannot be left alone for extended time and they must have a fenced in yard for them to play in. We love the woman that takes care of our Porkchop and he sleeps on his bed, next to her in her bedroom, like he would at home. He is so excited to go there and we are assured that he is getting the best care possible. We even get picture texts daily. And, it's cheaper than the horrible boarding places in this area! I know several West coast states participate in this, and they hope to expand to other states. Not sure if TX is one of them. They are $40/night.
To the OP, you could post in the Austin forum to get local prices and recommendations. I pay a pet sitter to come to my house, which in SLC is $15/visit or $30 overnight. Some will stay the night in your home and some will come as many times/day as you can afford. As I have 3 dogs and 3 cats, this is waaay cheaper than boarding. I also like the idea of my babies staying at home where they are comfortable and not exposed to illness. Most vet offices have at least 1 vet tech who does pet sitting.
To the OP: Please don't get the idea all boarding facilites are bad. One must do their homework and not pick the first facility you come to. Ask them if you may take a tour of their backrooms and runs where the animals are kept. Cleaniiness is a must for me. Are there playtimes and/or walks? Is a vet on site and what is their stance on vet care should your pet become ill?
I board with my vet. I feel comfortable leaving my big guy with he and his staff. Dylan has a huge run that he can go in and outdoors if he chooses. Outdoors, his run leads to a small play area, that he can be secluded or opened up for a play time with other dogs, if they so choose. His indoor area is heated and air-conditioned.
When he comes home, he is always clean, happy and healthy. I have picked up early once or twice....and his coat was always brushed and clean, so I feel he is well taken care of. Hopefully, you can find a vet/boarding facility that you are comfortable with too. Good luck!
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