Winter travel often means boarding — whether it’s for holiday plans, weather disruptions, or last-minute schedule changes after snow and ice storms.
But winter also brings higher illness risk. Pets spend more time indoors, share more surfaces, and rotate through spaces more quickly. That makes cleanliness and feeding routines two of the most important (and often overlooked) things to ask about before boarding your pet.
Here’s what to look for and what questions actually matter.
Why Winter Boarding Requires Extra Care
Cold weather changes how boarding facilities operate:
-
More indoor play and group time
-
Less airflow from open doors and outdoor spaces
-
Higher turnover during travel-heavy weeks
-
Increased exposure to seasonal illness
Clean routines that work in summer may not be enough in winter.
Questions to Ask About Food Bowl Hygiene
Feeding routines are one of the biggest opportunities for cross-contamination.
Ask:
-
Are food bowls cleaned after every meal?
-
Does each pet have their own bowl, or are bowls shared?
-
How are bowls cleaned — sink, dishwasher, sanitizer?
-
What happens if a pet is sick or has digestive issues?
Shared or poorly cleaned bowls can spread illness quickly in group environments.
Questions to Ask About Water Bowls
Water access matters — but so does cleanliness.
Ask:
-
How often are water bowls cleaned?
-
Are bowls refreshed daily (or more often)?
-
Do pets share water bowls during group play?
-
Are water stations cleaned between groups?
Fresh water in a dirty bowl isn’t actually fresh.
Questions to Ask About General Cleanliness
Beyond feeding, pay attention to the details.
Ask:
-
How often are feeding areas cleaned and disinfected?
-
What cleaning products are used, and how often?
-
Are high-touch areas cleaned multiple times per day?
-
How does the facility handle illness prevention in winter?
Facilities with clear answers tend to have consistent systems in place.
Signs of a Well-Run Winter Boarding Facility
Look for:
-
Clear, confident explanations — not vague reassurances
-
Written cleaning and feeding protocols
-
Individualized feeding routines
-
Transparency about illness prevention
If a facility welcomes your questions, that’s usually a good sign.
Why Feeding Systems Matter
In winter, efficiency and consistency matter more than ever.
Facilities that use structured feeding systems reduce:
-
Missed cleanings during busy periods
-
Cross-contamination between pets
-
Staff burnout that leads to shortcuts
Cleaner routines protect pets — and the people caring for them.
The Takeaway
Boarding your pet in winter doesn’t have to be stressful.
Asking the right questions about cleanliness and feeding routines helps ensure your pet stays healthy, comfortable, and safe — even during the busiest travel season of the year.