Find out options for where to put your dog when you go on holiday. Planning a holiday can be exciting, but deciding where to leave your beloved dog can be a challenge. In this guide, we explore various options for pet care while you're away, from family members and local kennels to professional pet sitters and board-and-train services.
Family Members
When planning to leave your dog with a trusted family member, you are choosing a solution that benefits both you and your furry friend. This choice ensures that your dog is in a familiar environment with people they know and trust, reducing any potential anxiety associated with your absence.
To make this arrangement successful, select an individual who is comfortable around dogs and has the time to look after your pet. This includes adhering to your dog's daily routine, ensuring they receive proper exercise through regular walks, and administering any necessary medication. It's crucial to communicate clearly by leaving detailed instructions about your dog's habits, dietary needs, and any specific care requirements.
Also, provide contact details and emergency information, such as your vet's phone number, so that your family member is prepared for any unforeseen situations. By choosing this option, your dog remains in a home environment filled with love and attention, which significantly lessens the stress often associated with the owner's absence.
This scenario also allows your dog to continue their day-to-day life without major disruptions, promoting their overall well-being and happiness. It’s a practical and considerate way to ensure your beloved pet feels secure, content, and remains healthy while you are away, offering you peace of mind knowing that your dog is in safe hands and surrounded by love, allowing for a smooth transition until your reunion.
Local Dog Kennels
Boarding kennels provide a highly organised setting for your dog while you're enjoying a holiday. It is crucial to look into various aspects to ensure the safety and happiness of your beloved pet during your absence.
There is a considerable choice of local dog kennels that focus on professional and quality care for dogs. When choosing a boarding kennel, make it a priority to visit and thoroughly inspect their facilities.
Pay attention to certain key details: the kennel should be secure, impeccably clean, and spacious enough to accommodate your dog's size and energy levels.
Additionally, you should ask questions regarding their daily routine, feeding schedules, and exercise regimes. This information helps determine if the kennel's practices align with your dog’s needs and habits.
Booking well in advance is advisable, as it allows you ample time to evaluate the options available, ensuring you select the kennel that best meets your dog’s specific needs.
Many kennels offer comfortable sleeping quarters, along with plenty of walks and exercise to ensure that your dog remains content and active.

Keeping your dog mentally stimulated and physically fit is vital for their overall welfare. This level of care will help your dog maintain a healthy routine while you are away. When finalising your choice, it's important to share any special instructions regarding your dog’s needs.
This may include dietary restrictions, medical conditions, or behavioural quirks that the staff should be aware of. Clear communication ensures that your pet is properly looked after and receives tailored care during their stay.
Selecting the right boarding kennel involves thorough research and preparation to ensure an enjoyable experience for your dog. Once all the planning is sorted, you can enjoy your holiday knowing that your canine companion is in excellent hands, receiving fantastic care tailored to their individual needs.
Animal Boarding at Vets
Animal boarding services at veterinary clinics can be a valuable option for pet owners, especially if your dog requires special medical attention. When you choose to board your dog at a vet's, you ensure that your pet is under the watchful eye of professionals who are well-versed in understanding and addressing your dog's specific medical needs.
This set-up offers unparalleled peace of mind, as any potential health issues can be monitored and swiftly addressed by trained staff. Before deciding on a boarding facility, it is crucial to visit the location personally. Take the opportunity to meet the veterinary staff and inquire about the type of care they offer. This interaction will help you gain confidence in their abilities to cater to your dog's unique requirements.
Understanding the environment in which your pet will stay is as important as knowing the staff who will be responsible for its well-being. If your dog needs close attention due to health conditions, boarding at a veterinary clinic is an excellent choice while you enjoy some time away. It is vital to book your pet's stay well in advance to guarantee availability. Popular centres can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Vet-operated boarding facilities provide specialised care that caters to pets with medical needs, ensuring they receive the necessary attention while allowing you to relax on your vacation. By visiting the facility and understanding the level of care offered, you can ensure a stress-free experience for both you and your pet.

Pet Sitter
Hiring a pet sitter is a convenient option for pet owners who want their dog to remain in a familiar environment while they’re away.
The services provided by a pet sitter can vary, but they usually involve either staying at the pet owner's home or making daily visits to ensure the pet’s needs are met. This gives peace of mind, knowing that your dog is receiving personalised attention and care.
A pet sitter will make sure your dog enjoys regular walks, gets fed according to their normal schedule, and receives any necessary medication. This consistent routine can be comforting for your dog, reducing stress and maintaining their well-being. To find a dependable pet sitter, you can start by speaking to your friends or family who have used such services before.
Additionally, exploring local services that specialise in pet sitting can offer more options. Before making a final decision, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research. Look into reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the sitter’s reliability and experience.
Arrange meetings with potential pet sitters to discuss your pet's requirements and expectations. During these meetings, observe how the sitter interacts with your pet and ask questions about their background and experience.
Pay attention to their responses and how comfortable they seem handling your pet. Choosing the right person is key to ensuring your pet is in good hands while you are on holiday. Taking the time to find the most suitable pet sitter can lead to a stress-free experience for both you and your pet.
Board-and-Train Services
If you're considering integrating dog care with training, board-and-train services might be the ideal choice. These services take care of your dog while you're away and provide tailored training sessions. This option is perfect for those looking to address specific behavioural issues or boost their dog's obedience.
Choosing a reputable service provider is crucial, one that understands your dog's unique needs. Visiting the facility beforehand is highly recommended. It gives you insight into the environment and allows you to meet the trainers who will work with your dog. You’ll want to ensure that the conditions are clean and safe and that the trainers are experienced and approachable.
Board-and-train services require you to give precise instructions to ensure that your pet receives the specific training you desire. Be clear about what you hope to achieve from the training sessions and any behavioural issues you want to address.
This tailored approach ensures your dog gets the most out of their stay. Such services offer a great opportunity to enhance your dog's training, especially when you're travelling, turning what could be stressful times into constructive and enjoyable experiences for your pet.
It's important to remember to book in advance. High-quality programs tend to fill up quickly, so securing a spot in a trusted program should be done well ahead of time. Reviews and testimonials from other dog owners can also help you make an informed decision. Look for success stories or any common concerns that might apply to your situation.
Additionally, maintain communication with the trainers throughout the process. This ongoing dialogue ensures that the training stays aligned with your objectives and allows for adjustments as necessary. When you return, follow up with the trainers to learn how you can continue implementing the lessons learned at home.
This consistency will reinforce the training and help your dog maintain its new skills. In conclusion, board-and-train services, when chosen carefully, can be an effective way to resolve behavioural issues and improve your dog's obedience, providing a constructive and beneficial experience for your beloved pet.
Here at Blackpool Dog Boarding, we provide luxury care for your dog. Whether you're dropping them off for one day or several, we're here to help. All our kennel services are tailored to each dog that is personally looked after by one of us.