DOG´S ATELIER How-to Reputable dog hotel - what to look out for?

5 questions to Barbara Dolder Brunner - owner and manager of a beautiful dog hotel ROKA in Tösstal.

Barbara with her pack

Barbara Dolder Brunner fulfilled her heart's desire to be there for the dogs in 2016 and founded a small dog hotel in beautiful Steg in the Tösstal.

As she says herself, "my little dog hotel is my hobby. I want to offer a piece of an ideal world where dogs are simply allowed to be dogs and are recognised as individuals.

Anyone who owns a four-legged friend can be faced with the decision of having to bring their beloved friend to the dog boarding facility. Not only in case of holidays, but also in case of illness or job-related reasons, it is important to have a familiar place where the four-legged friend feels comfortable.

DOG'S ATELIER asked ROKA's owner what makes a reliable and reputable dog hotel and what you should consider when choosing it.

1. What is important to consider before contacting a dog hotel for the first time?

Before making the first contact, you should first and foremost be aware of what you want for your dog and what he needs.

Find out who you are dealing with.

- Is the hotel registered and insured?

- Has it been inspected and approved by the veterinary office?

- Is the staff trained?

If the first contact is positive, it is very important to get to know each other!

2. What should you look out for at the personal meeting?

A serious company takes the time to get to know its prospective customers in advance.

Personally, I would also like to have a look at the animal to get a first impression.

A guided tour through the premises should be a matter of course and if you pay attention to the animals present, they will actually already tell you the most important things.

Ask lots of questions, also about the work of the hotel and the daily routine. What is very important to note is whether the dog trainer / dog sitter shows interest in your dog , e.g. Do they pay attention to your dog's body language? Does the dog sitter pay attention to his own appearance and body language in relation to the dog and the correct communication with him?

3. Is a trial overnight stay necessary?

Absolutely! A dog needs up to three days to settle in properly. After a trial stay, you can see whether your pet feels comfortable. It is absolutely normal that the dog comes home tired at the beginning. However, it should not act stressed or show any other abnormalities. If this is the case, talk to the carer to find out what the cause is

4. Does the dog need any special preparation before going to the kennel?

The handover is easier for the dog if its owner is also happy and that is why the preliminary points are so important.

The animal should also be healthy and meet the acceptance criteria of the company.

The carer must be clearly informed in advance about everything, such as intolerances or medication.

5. Is there an age limit (e.g. puppies or seniors?) for accommodation in the hotel?

Every dog hotel handles this differently or according to its own circumstances.

Our four-legged models wear accessories from the "buongiorno italia" collection and you can find them here:

- "OTELLO"

- "VITTORIO"

- "LABELLE"

- "GELATO"