Barking Mad
barkingmad.uk.com
Your dog stays with a local host family instead of in kennels while you’re away.
Kennels & catteries
Places for dogs to stay while you’re away, and how to choose one.
Anyone who boards pets for a business in England must hold a council licence, and many councils give a star rating from 1 to 5. Ask to see the licence before you book, and visit if you can.
Home boarding
Rover boarding
rover.com
Book a sitter to look after your pet in their own home overnight.
Pawshake boarding
pawshake.co.uk
Local sitters who board pets in their home, including some who take small animals.
Choosing kennels and catteries
Royal Kennel Club
royalkennelclub.com
Advice on choosing boarding kennels and what to check before you book.
Choosing kennels, a cattery or home boarding
When you go away and can’t take your pet with you, boarding means they’re looked after by someone whose job it is. The right choice depends on your pet’s personality, how long you’re away and what’s available near you.
Kennels, catteries or home boarding?
Boarding kennels look after several dogs at once in purpose-built accommodation, with set routines for feeding and exercise. They suit many dogs well, especially those used to other dogs.
Catteries give each cat its own unit, usually with a sleeping area and a run. A good cattery keeps cats from different homes apart and quiet.
Home boarding means your pet stays in a host’s home, often as the only guest or one of a few. It can suit dogs who find kennels stressful, puppies and older pets.
If your pet would rather stay put, a house sitter or drop-in visits may be a better fit. See our walkers and sitters page.
What to check before you book
The licence and star rating. In England, businesses that board cats or dogs, including home boarders, need a council licence. Ask to see it and what star rating they were given.
Vaccinations. Most kennels and catteries ask for proof that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, and many kennels also ask for a kennel cough vaccine. Check well ahead, as some vaccines need time before they count.
A visit. Ask to look around. Check it’s clean, secure and calm, and that pets have space, fresh water and somewhere comfortable to sleep.
Routine and care. Ask how often dogs are walked, whether you can bring your pet’s own food, and how they handle medication and vet visits.
Pairs and small pets. If you have two pets who live together, such as bonded rabbits, ask whether they can stay together.
Helping your pet settle
Good places get busy in school holidays, so book early. If your pet hasn’t boarded before, a short trial stay is a good way to see how they cope. Pack their usual food, a familiar blanket or toy, any medication with clear instructions, and your vet’s details.