What is dog boarding?

Accommodation’s booked, luggage is packed, and you’re all checked in for your flight, but what are you going to do with Fido? Jet-setting with a furry friend isn’t always possible, let alone practical, and in your search for a solution you’ve likely come across dog boarding, pet sitting, and everything in between. So what is dog boarding and how does it differ from pet sitting? 

What is boarding for dogs?

Dog boarding facilities are professional organizations that provide furry friends with a place to stay overnight, eat their meals, and run around. Rather like hotels for hounds, dog boarding services are there to take care of furry friends while their pet parents are away. 

Types of dog boarding facilities

Now we’ve got to grips with “what is dog boarding?”, let’s take a look at the various dog boarding options. Traditional dog boarding kennels offer the most basic service, where furry friends are generally separated into their own private dog kennels with limited opportunities for walkies and socializing. Thankfully most doggy boarding is a bit more comfortable, offering pups free-roam of the place with opportunities to play and polish their social skills as much as they want. You’ll find yourself wishing you could stay at the most upmarket pet hotels, which offer luxurious treatments like pawdicures, massages, and expert grooming for doggy guests. Some give The Ritz a run for their money with jacuzzi spa baths to relax anxious pups and chauffeur services for that five-star experience. If your furry friend doesn’t need overnight care, many dog boarding facilities offer doggy daycare, and activities like dog training and day trips can be added to the experience. 

What does dog boarding include? 

No matter which kind of dog boarding you choose, your pup will always be provided with a place to rest their head, regular meals, and daily exercise. Dog boarding facilities vary greatly in terms of cost, the quality of treatment, and the level of attention your pooch pal will receive, so it’s important to do your research to ensure all your pup’s needs are met. 

Pros and cons of dog boarding

Pros:

• Staff have the knowledge and expertise to take care of your fur baby 
• Some facilities offer upgrades and extra services like dog training, one-to-one care, and grooming
• It’s a good option in situations where your pup can’t be left at home, like when you’re moving house

Cons:

• Staff at dog boarding facilities are usually taking care of a number of pups at the same time, and may not have the capacity to give your four-legged friend all the love and attention they’re used to
• Anxious pups may find the new environment overwhelming and stressful 
• Your fur baby may have trouble adapting to the change in routine
• Sending your pooch to a pet boarding facility is expensive 

Dog boarding vs house sitting - what are the differences?

With dog boarding, the most obvious thing to point out is that your furry friend will be introduced to a new environment, whereas with house sitting, your fur baby will get to enjoy a staycation in their very own home. In-house pet sitters can stick to the routine you have built for your furry friend, and along with familiar sights and smells, pups can enjoy the same dog walk you take them on, sleep in the same cozy corner of the living room, and play with their own favorite toys. Furry friends can enjoy all the love and attention their in-home dog sitter has to give, with one-on-one treatment revolving around your fur baby’s wants and needs. On the other hand, dog boarding and kennels can bring pet parents peace of mind if they can’t host a house sitter in their own home. Find out more about dog boarding vs. dog sitting in our guide to the pros and cons.

Always do your research when it comes to both dog boarding and sitting; go with the option that suits your parenting style and have a chat with vets and other pet parents to see if they have any recommendations. If you like the sound of a particular pet hotel, have a full tour of the facilities to make sure they’re clean and safe, check there’s access to both indoor and outdoor play areas, and speak to staff to ensure the well-being of your pup is their priority. If you’re not “on board” with dog boarding, pet sitting is an excellent alternative, but you may still wish to speak to a few different pet sitters before finding the paw-fect person.