Whether you’re going away for one night, five nights or a few weeks, overnight dog boarding is a great way to ensure your dog is safe, happy and well cared for. Dog boarding ensures that your dog’s needs are met, and provides peace of mind so that you can enjoy your time away without the worry. To help you find the right boarding facility for your doggo, we’ve rounded up five essential questions to ask before booking their stay.
1. Does my dog need to be vaccinated?
When it comes to your furry friend, health and safety always comes first. Most reputable boarding facilities require dogs to be up to date with core vaccinations to prevent the spread of illness. Before booking a stay, ask which vaccines are mandatory and check whether your dog needs any boosters before their stay. Knowing this upfront ensures your dog is protected, and everyone else’s pups are too.
2. What kind of training and experience does the staff have?
When it comes to dog boarding, it’s important that staff are trained and experienced. After all, your precious furball is part of your family. Find out about their qualifications, canine behaviour knowledge, and handling experience. At K9 Heaven, all of our staff are also trained in dog first aid, to ensure the safety of our doggos. The more skilled the team, the smoother your dog’s stay, especially if they have special needs, anxiety, or high energy.
3. What facilities are available?
Facilities can make a huge difference to your dog’s experience. Are there indoor and outdoor play areas? Do they offer structured pack walks, grooming, sensory enrichment, or safe spaces to rest? Asking about facilities gives you a clear picture of how your dog will spend their time, and how much fun they will have.
4. What’s included in the cost?
Some boarding facilities go beyond basic care. From grooming to daily enrichment activities, try to find out what is included in your dog’s stay. While some facilities include farm runs, others charge additional fees. Find out what’s included and what costs extra so that you can compare the price with other facilities. At K9 Heaven, our boarding stays include nutritious meals, daily packs runs, baths, and regular enrichment activities. Your dog will also receive access to our renowned doggy daycare, based on our 10-acre farm where they’ll enjoy non-stop fun and adventures during the day.
5. How will my dog be monitored and cared for during their stay?
Understanding when your dog will be checked on, who their supervisor is, and how emergencies are handled is crucial. You’ll also want to find out how often your dog will get to go outside and how many walks they’ll receive. A good boarding facility will prioritise regular exercise and enrichment activities, with plenty of time to socialise with other doggos. Consistent supervision, structured routines, and clear communication can ease your mind and ensure your dog has an enjoyable stay.
Giving Your Dog the Care They Deserve
Choosing a dog boarding facility isn’t just about finding a place to leave your pup, it’s about ensuring they have a safe, engaging, and fulfilling experience while you’re away. At K9 Heaven, we provide a true country club retreat for dogs, where your furry guest is cared for by our attentive and loving team. Before choosing a dogy boarding facility, always undertake research and ask questions that are important to you to ensure that your dog will thrive in capable hands.