How to choose a suitable animal boarding establishment

20th Aug, 2013

How to choose a suitable animal boarding establishment

We know that your pet is a valued member in your family. As a loving pet owner, you would definitely want to board your pet at a reputable and suitable animal boarding establishment (commonly known as pet hotel) while you are away on a tour or a business trip so that you can have peace of mind that your pet will be well taken care of. Below are some guidelines provided by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for you to use as reference before you board your pet.

We recommend that you choose an animal boarding establishment that has obtained an Animal Boarding Establishment Licence (ABEL) issued by AFCD.
 

What to take note of before boarding a pet:

You should find out about the facilities and services of the animal boarding establishment before boarding your pet to ensure that your pet can live in a comfortable environment and receive proper care. You should pay attention to the following:

•    The animal boarding establishment must possess an ABEL that is issued by AFCD and is still valid.
•    Animals must have been vaccinated against common diseases already according to a vaccination programme. The animal boarding establishment must possess the most up-to-date original or copy of the boarded animals’ vaccination certificates.
•    Animals must have easy access to adequate food and clean, drinkable water.
•    Animals must have enough room to eat, exercise, go to toilet, move around freely and sleep.
•    The place where animals are accommodated must be dry, clean and contains suitable bedding.
•    Animals must be securely contained to prevent their escape.
•    The place where animals are accommodated must have sufficient shade and adequate shelter so that animals can protect themselves from direct sunlight and unpleasant weather.
•    The place where animals are accommodated must be maintained at an adequate temperature and well ventilated at all times.
•    Excreta must be removed at least once daily.

Other additional factors you may need to consider:

•    Will your pet be kept individually or together with other animals?
•    How do staffs interact with the animals? Do they know how to handle and take care of animals?
•    How often do staffs check on the animals?
•    What procedures does the establishment have if an animal becomes ill or is injured while boarding at the establishment?

Remember, if the animal boarding establishment staff refuses to show you an ABEL that is issued from AFCD and is still valid or if you have any doubts about the standards of facilities and services of the establishment, DO NOT BOARD YOUR PET AT THE ESTABLISHMENT!

•    You must make sure that your pet has received vaccinations against common diseases according to a vaccination programme before taking it to an animal boarding establishment so as to protect it from being infected.
•    To safeguard your consumer rights, please board your pet at a licensed animal boarding establishment.
•    If you come across unfair trade practices and the trader fails to address your concern, you are welcome to lodge your complaint directly with the Consumer Council by phone (Tel: 2929 2222).

Enquiries
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
Animal Management (Operations) Division
Address: 5/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon
Telephone: 2150 7077
Fax: 2311 3731
1823 Call Centre: 1823
Email: mailbox@afcd.gov.hk
Website: www.afcd.gov.hk