With the holiday season upon us, readers who have cats and dogs may be wondering what to do with their animals while on holiday. Many of us will have friends or relatives who can take care of our pets while we are away. However, if you don't you may be thinking of using a kennel or a cattery. This week City of York Trading Standards offers advice on this.

All animal boarding establishments have to be licensed to operate as a kennel or cattery. Licences are issued by the local authority for the area where the premises are based. Licences are issued annually and each animal boarding establishment has to re-apply every year. Inspections are carried out to see whether or not the establishment complies with the licence conditions, and if they do a licence is issued. So if you are considering putting your pet into a kennel or cattery you should ask to see the current licence which should be displayed on the premises. If the licence is not available for some reason you can contact the local authority to see if the premises are licensed.

Once you have found the kennel or cattery for your pet you will have to make sure that its vaccinations are up to date as the kennel or cattery will need to see them. In fact the vaccination certificates will have to accompany your dog/cat when they go into the kennel/cattery. You will also need to provide details of the vet who normally looks after your animal.

Make sure when you are booking your pet in that you let the kennel/cattery know of any particular feeding or other requirements. It is a good idea to provide the information in writing to the proprietor.

When you agree to use a kennel/cattery you are entering into a contract with the owner of the animal boarding establishment. Make sure you know what care and exercise is included. As with any contract both parties have rights and obligations. If in doubt ask for written confirmation as to what you can expect for your money. In accepting your pet, the proprietor has an obligation to take good care of the animal.

Should any problems arise you should report them to the local licensing authority for the area concerned. In York phone the Animal Health Service on 01904 551530 - they can also give you details of other local authorities in surrounding areas responsible for licensing animal boarding establishments.

For advice on consumer matters contact City of York Trading Standards on 01904 55162. You can call in at 9 St Leonard's Place - you can phone first if you want an appointment. Our email is trading.standards@york.gov.uk or visit our website www.york.gov.uk/business/tradingstandards

Updated: 10:38 Thursday, June 05, 2003