Leaving your pet behind when you travel can feel like handing over your firstborn to a babysitter you barely know. You want somewhere safe, somewhere welcoming, and most importantly, somewhere your pet won’t spend the entire time wondering if you’ve abandoned them forever.
Not all boarding facilities are created equal. Some are spotless, well-run havens with staff who genuinely care, while others… well, let’s just say you wouldn’t leave your worst enemy’s dog there. Every pet is different, and what works for one might be a complete disaster for another. A high-energy dog will hate being stuck in a tiny, concrete kennel all day, and an anxious cat might prefer a quiet, home-based sitter over a full-scale pet hotel.
The goal here is simple: help you pick a boarding service where your pet will be comfortable, cared for, and stress-free while you’re away. Because peace of mind for you means a happier tail-wagging (or purring) reunion when you get back.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Boarding Facility
Cleanliness & Safety
You can tell a lot about a place the moment you walk in. If it smells like a poorly maintained zoo, that’s your first clue to turn around. A good pet boarding facility should be fresh, well-ventilated, and regularly cleaned—not just when an inspection is due. Look for proper drainage, clean bedding, and no lingering odours that make you want to hold your breath.
Security matters, too. Solid fencing, secure enclosures, and locked gates mean your pet won’t be the next Houdini trying to escape during playtime.
Trained Staff & Supervision
Anyone can throw a few dogs in a yard and call it pet care, but you want staff who actually know what they’re doing. Ask about their experience, training, and emergency protocols. Do they have someone on-site 24/7? Are they trained in pet first aid? Do they actually like animals, or does it feel like they’re just punching the clock?
If staff can’t answer simple questions about how they handle nervous pets or what they’d do in a medical emergency, run—don’t walk—out of there.
Size & Space
Would you be happy spending the weekend in a broom closet? No? Well, neither would your pet. Check how much room each animal gets. Are the enclosures spacious enough for them to stretch, move around, and not feel like they’re in solitary confinement? If they’re kept indoors, is there enough airflow and natural light?
Some facilities offer large play areas, while others stick to smaller enclosures with scheduled outdoor time. Make sure whatever setup they have works for your pet’s needs.
Playtime & Socialisation
Exercise isn’t just about keeping pets entertained—it’s about keeping them mentally and physically happy. Ask how often dogs get playtime, whether it’s solo or in groups, and if supervision is always present. The last thing you want is your friendly Labrador getting bullied by an overexcited Rottweiler because no one’s paying attention.
Cats, on the other hand, generally prefer their own space. Some boarding places offer private, multi-level cat condos, while others have shared playrooms. If your cat prefers to be left alone, make sure they won’t be forced into “social time” with other feline residents.
For dog owners, particularly those looking for breeds like the Moodle, it’s important to check whether the facility understands small dog needs. A Moodle dog breeder might recommend specific boarding environments that cater to smaller, more sensitive breeds to ensure they feel safe and comfortable.
Medical Care Availability
Nobody likes thinking about emergencies, but you need to ask: What happens if your pet gets sick or injured? Does the facility have a vet on call? Are staff trained to handle medical situations? Do they check on pets regularly throughout the day?
If your pet has any existing health issues, make sure the facility is comfortable handling medications and special care needs. A kennel that gives you a blank stare when you mention insulin shots or dietary restrictions probably isn’t the right choice.
Types of Pet Boarding Services
Not all pet boarding options look the same. Some are no-frills, safe and simple, while others are so fancy you’ll wonder if your pet is getting a better holiday than you. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common options:
Traditional Kennels & Pet Hotels
These are structured facilities with dedicated enclosures, scheduled meal times, and designated play sessions. Some are basic, while others have cushioned sleeping areas, large outdoor yards, and even webcams so you can check in on your pet.
Best for: Pets who do well in structured environments with other animals around.
Not ideal for: Shy or anxious pets who need more one-on-one attention.
In-Home Pet Boarding
This is where your pet stays in someone’s home rather than a big facility. It’s usually a more personal, relaxed environment with fewer animals. Some sitters take only one or two pets at a time, while others run a small-scale boarding service.
Best for: Pets who need a quieter, home-like setting with fewer disruptions.
Not ideal for: Highly social pets who thrive in busier settings with lots of playmates.
Luxury Pet Resorts
Think five-star treatment for pets—private suites, temperature-controlled rooms, gourmet meals, spa treatments, and even doggy TV. Some luxury boarding spots even offer swimming pools, bedtime tuck-ins, and massages.
Best for: Pet parents who want all the extras and have a pet who enjoys the pampering.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious owners (these places aren’t cheap!).
Veterinary Boarding
If your pet has ongoing medical needs, a vet-run boarding facility can be a great choice. Staff are trained to handle health issues, administer medications, and monitor conditions that might need extra care.
Best for: Elderly pets, animals with chronic health problems, or pets recovering from surgery.
Not ideal for: Social pets looking for playtime and interaction.
How to Evaluate a Pet Boarding Service
Alright, so you’ve got a few options in mind. Now comes the most important step—figuring out if the place is actually as good as it sounds. A flashy website and a few nice photos don’t mean much if the actual experience feels like a dodgy motel from a horror film.
Visit the Facility in Person
Nothing beats seeing a place with your own eyes. Photos can be misleading, and glowing reviews don’t always tell the full story. Take a tour and keep an eye (and nose) out for a few key things:
- Clean, fresh-smelling spaces – No overwhelming stench of urine or damp bedding.
- Happy, relaxed animals – Not pacing, barking excessively, or looking distressed.
- Staff who seem attentive – They should be interacting with pets, not just standing around.
- Secure fencing and enclosures – No flimsy gates or spots where a determined escape artist could squeeze through.
If the facility refuses to let you see where the pets stay? Huge red flag.
Ask About Daily Routines
What does a typical day look like for boarded pets? Are they getting regular exercise and attention, or are they stuck in a kennel most of the time? A good facility will have a schedule that includes:
- Regular feeding times – Ideally, they’ll stick to your pet’s usual diet.
- Exercise and play sessions – Both group and solo options, depending on temperament.
- Quiet rest periods – Pets need downtime, too.
If the answer is vague or sounds like pets are just left alone for most of the day, move on to the next place.
Read Reviews & Get Recommendations
Google, Facebook, and even local pet groups are great for getting real opinions from pet owners. But don’t just skim the star ratings—read the actual comments. Look for patterns:
- Multiple mentions of pets coming home sick or stressed? Not a good sign.
- Reviews complaining about rude staff or lack of communication? Big nope.
- People saying their pet came home happy, well-fed, and clean? That’s what you want.
Trial Run Option
Not sure how your pet will handle boarding? Try a short stay before committing to a longer one. A weekend trip is a great way to test the waters without the risk of leaving them somewhere for a week and coming back to a stressed-out pet.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Even if a boarding service sounds amazing on paper, there are a few warning signs you should never ignore.
Overcrowding or Dirty Facilities
If there are too many animals packed into a small space or enclosures look filthy, run for the hills. A good facility should be clean, organised, and not bursting at the seams with animals.
Staff Who Seem Inattentive or Overwhelmed
Are they interacting with the pets? Do they seem to actually enjoy their job? If staff look frazzled, distracted, or like they couldn’t care less, that’s not where you want your pet staying.
No Clear Policies on Vaccinations or Medical Emergencies
If a boarding facility doesn’t require up-to-date vaccinations, it’s a breeding ground for sickness. Likewise, if they can’t clearly explain what happens in an emergency, you’re taking a risk.
Poor Communication or Vague Answers
If a facility dodges questions, refuses to let you look around, or can’t explain basic things like feeding schedules, take your pet elsewhere. Transparency is key.
Conclusion
Leaving your pet behind doesn’t have to be stressful. You can almost always find a place that treats your pet like family—not just another number. The best part of any trip is coming home to a pet who’s just as happy to see you as you are to see them, so do your homework before committing to just any old boarding facility.
