As pet owners, we all want the best for our furry friends. They are more than just pets; they are cherished members of our families. Their well-being is our top priority, and this becomes even more critical when we can’t be there for them, such as when we’re on holiday or tied up with work. This is where the importance of registered home boarding for pets in the UK comes into play.
Why Choose Registered Home Boarding?
Registered home boarding provides a safe, comfortable environment for your pet when you’re away. But it’s not just about convenience. Choosing a registered and licensed pet home boarder is an essential step in ensuring your pet’s safety and well-being.
Quality Care Assured
Registered and licensed pet home boarders in the UK are required to meet specific standards set by the local council under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018. These standards cover the animals’ living conditions, diet, and exercise routines, ensuring your pet receives the best care possible.
Professional Training
Another advantage of registered home boarding is the professional training the boarders have often undergone. They are equipped with knowledge in pet care, first aid, and behaviour. This means they can handle emergencies and provide the necessary care and attention your pet needs. Be in mind however that it is not a requirement of getting a license as a registered home boarder to have any particular training or certification so always enquire with the home boarder about their experience and any certifications they may have.
Registered Home Boarding Provides Peace of Mind
Knowing your pet is in the hands of a registered and licensed professional gives you peace of mind. You can rest assured that they are being cared for by someone who understands their needs and can provide a safe, comfortable environment that has been inspected by the local council.
The Risks of Unregistered Pet Boarding
Choosing an unregistered pet boarder may seem like a cost-effective option, but the risks far outweigh the benefits. Unlicensed pet boarders may not adhere to the same standards as their licensed counterparts. They may lack the necessary training to handle emergencies or recognise signs of distress in your pet. Furthermore, they may not provide suitable living conditions, putting your pet’s health and well-being at risk. Your pet’s well-being should always be your priority and risking their health and safety by using an unregistered home boarder is not responsible pet ownership.
Insurance Implications
One of the less obvious but equally significant concerns about using unregistered home boarding is the potential implications for insurance claims. In the unfortunate event of an injury to your pet while in an unregistered boarding premises, your pet insurance may not cover the costs.
Many pet insurance policies require that all care, including boarding, be provided by registered and licensed professionals. This is to ensure that the pet is in a safe and controlled environment. If the policy requires boarding to be done by licensed professionals for coverage to apply, then any injuries sustained at an unlicensed facility may not be covered.
While the specifics can vary greatly depending on the individual insurance policy, it’s generally more difficult to make a successful insurance claim if a pet is injured while staying at an unregistered or unlicensed pet boarding facility.
Sadly, during my life I have heard many horror stories of pets being injured, lost, or worse, killed whilst in the care of an unregistered home boarder. In the vast majority of incidents, the pet owner was unable to make a successful insurance claim due to the home boarder being unregistered thereby effectively making their, and the home boarders insurance (if any) invalid.
Registered Home Boarding Conclusion
When it comes to our beloved pets, quality care should never be compromised. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper, unlicensed alternatives, the risks, including potential complications with insurance coverage, far outweigh the benefits. Registered home boarding offers not only a safe and comfortable environment for your pet but also peace of mind for you as a pet owner.
Remember, when choosing a pet boarding service, always opt for registered home boarding. It’s not just a choice; it’s a responsibility towards the well-being of your pet.
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