Factsheet - Boarding Your Dog

Boarding Your Dog: A Guide for Pet Parents

When you are planning time away, one of the biggest decisions you will make as a pet parent is who will care for your dog. After all, they are not just a pet. They are a much loved member of your family.

While there are many care options available, not all provide the same level of safety, supervision and emotional support. Across Australia, more and more pet parents are choosing professional pet boarding facilities because they offer structure, experience and genuine peace of mind.

Unfortunately, professional pet resorts also regularly receive urgent calls from people who have agreed to care for a dog, only to realise they are not equipped to do so safely. These situations can be stressful for everyone involved, especially the dog.

Understanding your options ahead of time helps ensure your furry companion is safe, comfortable and happy while you are away.

Considering Alternatives to Boarding and What to Watch Out For

Leaving Your Dog at Home With Someone Checking In

For some dogs, staying at home sounds ideal. Familiar surroundings can be comforting, but limited daily visits often come with hidden challenges:

• Gates or doors may be accidentally left open, increasing the risk of escape

• Well meaning carers may not notice early signs of illness or injury

• Some dogs may act protectively and refuse entry to unfamiliar visitors

• Long hours alone can lead to boredom, anxiety and destructive behaviour

• Dogs may attempt to escape due to loneliness or stress

While this option may suit very short absences, it can be difficult to meet your dog’s social and emotional needs over longer periods.

Leaving Your Dog With Friends or Family

Entrusting your dog to someone you know can feel reassuring, but unfamiliar homes and routines can be unsettling for dogs:

• New environments may trigger escape attempts

• Homes may not be securely fenced or dog proofed

• Noise, children or other pets can overwhelm dogs who are not used to them

• Changes in routine can cause anxiety or behavioural changes

Even the most loving carers may not be prepared for the responsibility that comes with caring for someone else’s dog.

Boarding at a Veterinary Clinic

Veterinary clinics can be a suitable option for dogs that require medical supervision, but they are not always ideal for healthy pets:

• Many dogs associate vet clinics with stressful experiences

• Space and enrichment opportunities may be limited

• Dogs may be housed near unwell or recovering animals

If your dog is elderly, unwell or requires close medical monitoring, veterinary boarding may be the safest option. For healthy dogs, however, there are often more comfortable alternatives.

Taking Your Dog on Holiday

Bringing your dog along can be a wonderful experience, but it can also add complexity to your plans:

• Many accommodations do not allow pets or have strict rules

• Dogs are not permitted in Australian National Parks

• Travel can be tiring and stressful for some dogs

• Veterinary care may be limited in regional areas

• Dogs cannot be left unattended in vehicles or caravans

• New environments can expose dogs to parasites and illness

For many families, taking a dog on holiday means compromising activities or constantly adjusting plans.

Why Professional Pet Boarding Makes a Difference

Purpose built pet resorts are designed with dogs in mind. From secure environments to experienced staff, professional boarding facilities provide care that goes far beyond basic supervision.

Some of the key benefits include:

• Experienced, caring teams
  Staff are trained to understand dog behaviour, recognise stress and respond quickly to health concerns.

• Health and safety protocols
  Vaccination requirements and health checks help protect every dog in care.

• Licensed and regulated facilities
  Reputable pet resorts are council approved and operate under strict welfare standards.

• High hygiene standards
  Daily cleaning and sanitation routines help reduce the spread of illness.

• Plenty of human interaction
  Unlike brief daily visits, staff are present throughout the day to provide attention, reassurance and care.

• Secure, purpose built environments
  Fencing and controlled access systems keep dogs safe at all times.

• Clear agreements and insurance
  Professional boarding facilities operate transparently and carry public liability insurance.

Experience You Can Trust

Professional boarding teams care for thousands of dogs every year. This depth of experience means subtle changes in behaviour or appetite are often noticed quickly.

While boarding facilities do not diagnose or treat illness, experienced staff know when something is not quite right and will arrange veterinary care if needed.

As a pet parent, this experience provides peace of mind that your dog is being closely monitored by people who truly understand dogs.

Preparing Your Furry Family Member for Boarding

Successful boarding is a partnership between pet parents and care providers. Before your dog’s stay, please ensure:

• Vaccinations are current, including a minimum C5 but check your chosen boarding facilities terms

• Worming and flea and tick prevention are up to date as per the terms of your agreement

• Your dog has not been exposed to contagious illness

• Your dog arrives on a secure lead

• Staff are informed of any medical needs, fears or sensitivities

Many puppies adapt beautifully to boarding, especially when introduced gradually. Day care visits can be a wonderful way to help young dogs build confidence before longer stays.

What You Might Notice When Your Dog Comes Home

After boarding, some temporary changes are completely normal and usually resolve quickly:

• Tiredness from extra play and social interaction

• A slightly hoarse voice from enthusiastic barking

• Softer stools due to excitement or changes in routine

• Mild weight loss from increased activity

These are all signs of a busy, engaging stay rather than cause for concern.

Welcoming Your Dog Home

Dogs do not experience time the way humans do, so whether you have been away for hours or days, your dog will be equally thrilled to see you.

Allow your dog time to settle before feeding. Avoid meals for at least six hours after pickup, offer small amounts of water or ice cubes, and return to normal feeding once excitement levels have eased.

Key Takeaways for Pet Parents

• Choosing the right boarding option supports your dog’s safety and happiness

• Professional pet resorts offer experience, structure and peace of mind

• Preparation helps your dog settle more comfortably

• Boarding teams genuinely care about your dog as much as you do

Your dog deserves a holiday experience that feels safe, enriching and full of care while you are away.

Further Reading for Pet Parents

For pet parents who would like more detailed industry guidance around boarding their furry family member, the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) offers a helpful Boarding Your Dog Factsheet. It provides additional insights to support informed, confident decisions when arranging care for your canine companion.