Pet Boarding: Navigating Temporary Housing Solutions for Pets During Home Repairs or Rebuilds
When homeowners are displaced due to extensive repairs or rebuilding, finding accommodations for pets can be an additional challenge. Not all temporary housing options are pet-friendly, and some pets may require specialized care during this time. Pet boarding offers a solution, providing a safe and comfortable environment for pets while you manage housing arrangements.
This article explores pet boarding options, how to coordinate with your insurance provider for potential coverage, and steps to ensure your pet's well-being during the transition.
Why Consider Pet Boarding?
Temporary Housing Limitations: Many short-term or long-term housing options may not allow pets, or they may have restrictions on certain types or sizes of pets.
Specialized Care Needs: Boarding facilities often provide care and attention specific to your pet’s needs, such as exercise, grooming, and medical support.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that your pet is safe, comfortable, and well-cared-for allows you to focus on handling the repairs or rebuild without added stress.
Types of Pet Boarding Options
Traditional Boarding Kennels:
Suitability: Kennels are suitable for dogs and cats and can accommodate various pet sizes and breeds. Many kennels offer individual kennels or runs and may provide exercise or playtime.
Considerations: Kennels provide a secure environment but may not offer extensive one-on-one attention. Confirm the kennel’s policies on vaccination requirements, feeding, and daily routines.
Cost and Coverage: Costs vary based on the length of stay and services provided. Boarding kennels are often covered under ALE (Additional Living Expenses) if temporary housing cannot accommodate pets.
Pet Resorts:
Suitability: Pet resorts provide a more luxurious experience, with private rooms, daily exercise, grooming, and even spa treatments. They are ideal for pets used to a high level of comfort or those with specific behavioral needs.
Considerations: Pet resorts offer personalized services, but they may be more costly than traditional kennels. Consider the additional expenses and confirm with your insurance provider if these are reimbursable.
Cost and Coverage: Premium services may or may not be fully covered under ALE, so verify with your insurer to understand what is eligible for reimbursement.
Veterinary Boarding Facilities:
Suitability: Veterinary boarding is an excellent option for pets with medical needs, as they can receive care from trained veterinary staff. This is ideal for elderly pets or those requiring medication.
Considerations: Veterinary facilities may have limited space, so booking early is essential. They provide peace of mind for pets needing frequent medical attention.
Cost and Coverage: Veterinary boarding is often more expensive due to medical care. Some insurance policies cover boarding for pets with medical needs, but verify with your insurer.
In-Home Pet Boarding:
Suitability: In-home boarding allows pets to stay in a home environment with a pet sitter. This is beneficial for pets who are more comfortable in a home setting or those who don’t adapt well to kennels.
Considerations: In-home boarding provides a more personalized experience, but it may be challenging to find a sitter if your pet has specialized care needs.
Cost and Coverage: In-home boarding may be covered if other pet boarding facilities are unavailable. Discuss coverage for this option with your insurer.
Pet Daycare Facilities:
Suitability: Pet daycare is ideal for shorter stays or daytime care. Some facilities offer overnight boarding as well, making it a flexible choice for extended needs.
Considerations: Pet daycare provides socialization and exercise, which is beneficial for pets needing activity throughout the day. Check the facility's policies on vaccination, behavior, and care routines.
Cost and Coverage: ALE coverage for daycare facilities depends on the specific Policy and the nature of the pet’s needs. Confirm with your insurance provider if daytime-only options are eligible.
Steps to Securing Pet Boarding
Review Your Insurance Coverage:
Understand ALE Benefits for Pets: Some Additional Living Expenses (ALE) policies cover pet boarding if your temporary housing does not allow pets. Review your policy and confirm with your insurance provider to understand the scope of coverage.
Verify Eligible Expenses: Many policies cover basic boarding expenses, while others may include grooming, medical care, or special dietary needs if medically necessary.
Contact Your Insurance Provider:
Discuss Boarding Needs: Share details about your pet’s requirements, including their size, breed, health needs, and any behavioral considerations, with your claims adjuster.
Get Pre-Approval: Some insurers require pre-approval for boarding expenses. Submit any necessary documentation, including vaccination records and estimates from the boarding facility.
Research Boarding Facilities:
Consider Your Pet’s Needs: Choose a facility based on your pet’s specific requirements, such as medical care, exercise, or socialization needs. If your pet has anxiety or behavioral needs, inquire about one-on-one attention or specialized care.
Visit the Facility: Touring the facility allows you to assess the cleanliness, safety protocols, and staff interactions with the pets. Look for places with positive reviews and certifications, such as American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA) accreditation.
Confirm Policies and Availability: Check the boarding facility’s policies on vaccination, feeding routines, exercise, and daily care. If your pet requires a special diet, confirm they can accommodate it.
Document and Track Expenses:
Keep Detailed Receipts: Save all boarding-related expenses, including boarding fees, grooming, medical care, and any additional services provided. ALE reimbursement typically requires a detailed record of costs.
Log Additional Living Expenses for Pets: If your insurer covers pet-related expenses like grooming or medical care, keep these receipts as well. Some policies require documentation for non-boarding expenses related to pet care during displacement.
Additional Tips for Managing Pet Boarding During Displacement
Book Early: During high-demand periods, boarding facilities may fill up quickly. Secure your pet’s spot as soon as possible, especially if they require medical care or specialized services.
Ensure Vaccinations and Health Records are Current: Most boarding facilities require up-to-date vaccinations, so ensure your pet is up-to-date on rabies, distemper, and other common vaccines. Bring a copy of their medical records when dropping them off.
Bring Familiar Items: Help your pet feel at home by providing familiar items such as their bed, favorite toys, or a blanket with your scent. Familiar items can reduce anxiety and help them adjust to their new surroundings.
Communicate with the Facility: Inform the boarding staff of any special instructions, such as dietary needs, medications, or behavioral quirks. The more information they have, the better care they can provide.
Plan for Extended Stays: If repairs or rebuilding takes longer than anticipated, arrange for extended care. Communicate with both the boarding facility and your insurance provider to ensure continuity in coverage and care.
Understanding Reimbursement and Next Steps
File a Claim for Boarding Costs: Work with your insurer and use Loti to submit receipts and documentation for pet boarding expenses under ALE. Keep copies of all documents in case of follow-up questions.
Communicate Regularly with Your Insurer: Update your insurance provider if your pet’s boarding needs change, such as an extended stay or additional medical care. Regular communication ensures a smooth claims process.
Plan for Your Pet’s Return: As your home repairs near completion, coordinate your pet’s return home. Confirm with the boarding facility about any necessary preparation for transitioning back to their familiar environment.
Wrap-Up
Pet boarding can provide a safe and comfortable environment for pets when temporary housing cannot accommodate them. By understanding your ALE coverage, choosing the best boarding option for your pet, and keeping detailed records of expenses, you can ensure that your pet’s needs are met during an otherwise stressful time.
Whether opting for a traditional kennel, pet resort, or veterinary facility, careful planning and communication with your insurer will help you secure the best care for your pet while you focus on getting back to your home.