I work p/t for a veternarian and we board animals at the clinic. If you decide to board your animal at a kennel, go to the kennel and tell them you are considering boarding you animal, if they don't offer, then ASK to view the kennel. Try to meet the kennel attendent as well. Another plus for using your vet, is that they already know your pets.
I am boarding 2 chihuahuas, a mutt and 7 cats while we are gone and I know they will be well loved. A friend is going to take care of the Akita and Bloodhound, because I think they will be happier in their respective kennels.
One more tip, if you choose to leave your fur-babies in the care of a kennel, make sure they REQUIRE current vaccinations, including kennel cough.