Kennels and Care

Most of us have pets. The vast majority of our  pets live inside with us. People who show dogs as a profession, or otherwise known as dog handlers, usually have a large number of dogs with them. They do own some of them, but mostly the dogs belong to other people. This is very common with dog handlers. That’s how they make money. Owners pay handlers to care for and show their dogs. This is not as easy as you would think. You have to have the proper equipment to care for such a large number of animals. 

A large number of dogs most handlers have in their care leads to them having what is commonly called a kennel. Kennels are where handlers can keep a large number of dogs in a safe and easily assessable place. Kennels are safer for handlers because they usually have custom-built areas where the dogs can get the exercise necessary for showing condition. A dog food company called ProPlan even has blueprints for people so they can have a fantastic kennel. 

These buildings are generally on large plots of land away from other homes, so a large number of dogs don’t bother people with their barking. 

Now don’t worry, these dogs still get the love they deserve. Just because handlers have a large number of dogs doesn’t mean they don’t get the attention they would get with their owners. Most professional handlers have what we call assistants. They are payroll employees who help care for the dogs. All kennels have housing for the full-time assistants who live in and care for the dogs. 

The most important part of a kennel is safety. The building itself must be able to handle a large number of dogs and be able to keep all the grooming, feeding, and health equipment.  Fenced in areas for the dogs to get out and exercise are also very important. My parents are currently building a kennel at our new house. We have had the explicitly made, so the dogs are as safe as possible but also able to still be dogs who have fun and get dirty. 

Some people think just because show dogs have to be pretty and clean that they live a sheltered life, but actually, they probably get out and do more than your pet. Show dogs have to be “in condition,” which means they have to be a healthy weight, their hair must be as healthy as possible, and even their teeth have to be healthy. When a client sends their dog to my parents, the dogs usually get put on a diet and exercise regiment. My parents want the dogs to be as perfect as possible so they can win.