Taking client's dogs out and about during boarding?

This is one of those things that if done right would be great, but if not done properly can end up in a huge disaster.

• First and for most you want to make sure you ask and talk to the owners during the meet and greet.

• I normally will start off asking the owners if their pet has ever shown any signs of aggression towards people or pets?

  (Keeping in mind , just because he/she has not shown any signs up to that point doesn't mean he can't.) I would not recommend letting people or other animals , and especially not children approach or touch the dog. You run a high risk of the dog getting scared and biting someone.

• keep the dogs on a leash at all times and make sure you are aware of everyone and everything
  that approaches him/her.

• Make sure you check the dogs collar before you leave your house. Make sure the dog can not slip out of it's collar.

• You then want to know if the dog likes car rides? If they say no, then that's a wrap. If yes, then you want to find out where does the dog normally sit. (some clients do not let their dogs sit in the front seat. some prefer they do.)

(Although many owners let their pets stick their heads out the windows, I recommend that you don't. You run the risk of debris flying into the dogs eyes. Not to mention they can fall out the window.)

• ALWAYS put a seatbelt on the dog. (An Actual Doggie Car Seatbelt.)

• Make Sure you Never leave their dogs unattended in a car. EVER!

• last make sure you specifically ask the owner if it would be okay for their dog to go with you on outings. Giving them a few examples of where you and their dog may go.

  I would however, not use "Surf Session" as an example ( nor would I take the dog to a surf Session). Surf Session sounds like you would be in the water, in which case.... who is watching the dog?

* You must have your full attention on the dog at all times. You are 100% responsible for the dog! It only takes two seconds for something to go terrible wrong.*