Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
The Christmas festivities are over, and as the new year begins, holiday companies like TUI (among others) start rolling out enticing adverts for summer getaways. This often prompts families to plan their next trip abroad or staycation in the UK.
But before you book that dream destination, there’s one crucial question to consider:
Who will look after your dog while you’re away?
Several options include family or friends, home boarding, pet sitters, or licensed kennels/hotels. Each has pros and cons; the right choice will depend on your dog’s personality, routine, and needs.
This article will help you make an informed decision about what’s best for both you and your dog.
Home Boarding: A Home-from-Home Experience
Home boarding has become very popular with dog owners who have sociable, friendly dogs. A home boarder takes your dog into their home while you’re away, providing a comfortable, homely environment.
Benefits of Home Boarding
- More individual attention—Unlike kennels, where dogs are kept in separate units, home boarding allows your dog to be part of a household and receive regular interaction and companionship.
- Less stress and anxiety – Dogs who are used to being part of a family setting may find a kennel environment overwhelming. A home border provides a more familiar and relaxing experience.
- Opportunities for socialisation – If your dog enjoys the company of other dogs, they can benefit from playing and socialising with the boarder’s pets or other guest dogs.
- Familiar routines – Home boarders can tailor the experience to match your dog’s feeding, exercise, and sleeping routines as closely as possible.
If your dog is friendly, confident, and adaptable, they should quickly settle into a home boarding environment, allowing you to enjoy your holiday without worry.
How to Choose the Right Home Boarder
When selecting a home border, it’s essential to check the following:
✅ Are they licensed? – In the UK, all home boarders must hold a licence from their local council, ensuring they meet welfare and safety standards.
✅ Do they have suitable insurance? – Ensure they have public liability insurance and pet first aid training.
✅ Are there safety measures in place? – Check that wires and cables are hidden, cleaning chemicals are stored securely, and the garden is fully enclosed.
✅ Are there gates to separate dogs if needed? – This is particularly important if multiple dogs are being cared for.
✅ How do they handle the dogs in their care? – Observe their interaction with their dogs or other guest dogs. Do they seem experienced and in control?
✅ Are the dogs in their care happy and well looked after? – Look for signs of contentment, relaxation, and good physical condition.
✅ Do they offer a trial stay? – A responsible boarder will offer an overnight trial to help your dog settle before their extended stay.
✅ How much exercise will your dog get? – Discuss daily walk schedules, playtime, and whether your dog will have garden access.
Pet Sitters: Keeping Your Dog in Their Own Home
Pet sitters offer an alternative to home boarding by caring for your dog in your own home. This can be less stressful for dogs who prefer their environment and routine.
Benefits of a Pet Sitter
- Minimal disruption to your dog’s routine – Staying at home means familiar surroundings, beds, and smells, which can reduce stress and anxiety.
- Ideal for multi-pet households – A pet sitter can look after cats, small animals, and even plants while you’re away.
- Added home security – A live-in pet sitter can deter potential break-ins by making the house look occupied.
- Bespoke one-on-one care: Your dog will receive dedicated attention rather than being one of many pets in a kennel or home-boarding setting.
Things to Consider When Hiring a Pet Sitter
While you may be tempted to ask a friend or family member to pet sit, hiring a professional pet sitter is usually the best option. Here’s why:
✅ Fully insured and first aid trained – A professional sitter should have public liability insurance and knowledge of pet first aid.
✅ Trustworthy and reputable – Ask for references from previous clients and check online reviews.
✅ Meet them in advance – Arrange a meet and greet to assess how they interact with your dog.
✅ Discuss living arrangements – Pet sitters stay in your home and need access to a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, WiFi, and TV.
✅ Clear expectations – Outline your dog’s feeding schedule, medication requirements, exercise routine, and emergency contacts.
🔎 Where to find a good pet sitter? Ask local Facebook groups or fellow dog owners, or use trusted pet-sitting agencies rather than generic apps.
Boarding Kennels & Doggy Hotels
Kennels have been a popular option for decades, with some modern facilities resembling luxury dog hotels rather than traditional boarding kennels.
Choosing the Right Boarding Kennel
Not all kennels are the same, so it’s essential to research thoroughly. Many reputable kennels, like Elmtree, get booked months in advance, so plan early.
What to Expect from a Licensed Kennel
🐾 Separate living space – Your dog should have a sleeping area unless you have multiple dogs staying together.
🐾 Adequate space – Kennels should be large enough for your dog to comfortably stand, lie down, and turn around.
🐾 Daily exercise – At least one walk daily plus enrichment activities such as toys or playtime. Some higher-end doggy hotels offer two daily walks.
🐾 Clean and well-ventilated environment – Always visit before booking to check hygiene standards.
🐾 Monitoring and updates – Some kennels provide CCTV monitoring or regular updates on your dog’s stay.
Helping Your Dog Settle into a Kennel
📌 Book a short stay first – A trial overnight stay can help ease anxiety before a more extended holiday.
📌 Provide familiar items – Send your dog with their bedding, toys, and food to help them feel at home.
📌 If your dog is used to constant human company, consider home boarding or a pet sitter instead.
Important Information for Your Dog Carer
No matter which option you choose—home boarding, pet sitting, or kennels—you’ll need to provide the following information:
✅ Feeding schedule – Any dietary restrictions or allergies.
✅ Medication instructions – Written details of timing and dosage.
✅ Emergency contact details – Yours, plus a trusted friend or relative.
✅ Vet details – Inform your vet that you’ll be away.
✅ Microchip information – Ensure it’s up to date in emergencies.
Finchley Dog Walker: Premium Home Sitting Service
At Finchley Dog Walker, we offer a premium home-sitting service, providing professional care tailored to your dog’s needs.
⭐ Enhanced DBS Checked via The Scouts
⭐ First Aid Trained
⭐ Fully Insured
⭐ References Available
Please get in contact if you are looking for holiday care or wish to find out about our other services