What are your daycare hours?

Our daycare operates every day of the week from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. We offer flexible drop-off and pickup times to accommodate your schedule outside this range upon request.

Do you provide overnight sitting services?

Yes! Our overnight sitting service allows your dog to stay comfortable in their own home while you're away. During your dog's stay, we will maintain your dog's regular routine, including walks, feeding, and playtime.

Do all dogs need to be friendly with other dogs?

Yes, all dogs must be friendly and comfortable around other dogs. We have our own family dog, Walter, who is always present on the property, and we often care for multiple dogs at once. For everyone's safety and happiness, we can only accept dogs that are sociable and relaxed around other dogs and children. If you're unsure about your dog's suitability, please get in touch and we can arrange a meet-and-greet to see how they interact.

What safety measures do you have in place?

Safety is our top priority. We are trained in pet first aid, we maintain small group sizes for personalised attention and our house is fully secured and sanitised daily.

Can you accommodate dogs with special needs?

Absolutely! We have experience caring for dogs with various needs including medication administration, special diets, mobility assistance, and behavioral considerations. We'll work with you to create a custom care plan.

What Is Home-Based Dog Boarding? Everything Basildon Pet Owners Need to Know

What is home-based dog boarding? Complete guide for Basildon pet owners explaining how home boarding works, costs, benefits, and how to choose the right carer for your dog.

Home-based dog boarding is an alternative to traditional kennels where your dog stays in a carer's home instead of a commercial facility. This guide explains exactly what home boarding is, how it works in Basildon, and how to decide if it's right for your dog. What Is Home-Based Dog Boarding? Home-based dog boarding (also called "home boarding" or "in-home boarding") is a pet care service where dogs stay overnight in a carer's private home rather than a traditional kennel facility. Your dog lives with the host family as a temporary member of their household, receiving individualized attention and care in a home environment. Key Characteristics: Home environment: Dogs stay in a real house, not a commercial facility Small groups: Typically 1-4 dogs at a time (sometimes more with licensing) 24/7 supervision: Carer lives on-site with the dogs Individual attention: More one-on-one interaction than kennel settings Normal routine: Dogs eat, sleep, and play in a home-like setting How Home Boarding Differs from Traditional Kennels Traditional Kennels: Purpose-built commercial facilities Individual runs or kennels for each dog Staff work shifts (dogs may be alone at night) Can house 20-100+ dogs Industrial cleaning protocols Standardized care routines Home-Based Boarding: Private homes with suitable space Dogs have freedom in living areas Carer present 24/7 Small numbers (typically 1-6 dogs) Home cleaning standards Flexible, personalized routines How Home Boarding Works in Practice Before Your Dog's Stay: Meet and greet: You visit the carer's home with your dog to ensure compatibility Information exchange: Discuss your dog's routine, diet, medications, and preferences Vaccination check: Provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations Booking confirmation: Agree on dates, costs, and care requirements During the Stay: Drop-off: Bring your dog with their food, bedding, and belongings Daily routine: Your dog follows the household's schedule (walks, meals, playtime) Updates: Receive photos and messages showing your dog's activities Socialization: Your dog may interact with the carer's own dogs or other guests After the Stay: Pick-up: Collect your dog at the agreed time Debrief: Discuss how your dog did during their stay Feedback: Share your experience to help other pet owners Home Boarding Costs in Basildon Home-based dog boarding in Basildon typically costs: Per night: £25-45 (varies by carer and services) Multi-dog discount: 10-25% off additional dogs from same household Extended stay discount: Some carers offer weekly rates Additional services: Grooming, training, or extra walks may cost extra This is often comparable to or slightly higher than traditional kennels, but includes more personalized care. Benefits of Home-Based Boarding For Your Dog: Less stress: Home environment feels more natural than a kennel More attention: Lower dog-to-carer ratio means more individual care Comfortable sleeping: Often allowed on sofas or beds, depending on house rules Normal routine: Regular meal times, walks, and quiet evenings Reduced exposure: Fewer dogs means lower risk of kennel cough and illness For You: Peace of mind: Knowing your dog is in a loving home Regular updates: Photos and videos of your dog's activities Personal relationship: Direct communication with the carer Flexibility: Often more accommodating with drop-off/pick-up times Is Home Boarding Right for Your Dog? Ideal Candidates: Dogs who dislike the noise and activity of kennels Anxious or nervous dogs who need a calm environment Senior dogs who prefer quieter settings Dogs used to home comforts (sofas, beds, human company) Dogs who do well with individual attention Dogs with special needs requiring personalized care May Not Suit: Dogs with severe aggression toward other dogs or people Escape artists who may flee from a home environment Dogs requiring specialized medical facilities Very high-energy dogs needing constant activity How to Choose a Home Boarder in Basildon Essential Checks: Licensing: In England, anyone boarding dogs for profit needs a license from the local council. Ask to see their license. Insurance: Public liability insurance is essential References: Ask for reviews or references from previous clients Home visit: Always visit the home before booking Meet the carer: Ensure you trust them with your dog Questions to Ask: How many dogs do you board at once? Do you have your own dogs? Will they interact with mine? Where will my dog sleep? How often will my dog be walked? What happens in an emergency? How will you communicate with me during the stay? What's your cancellation policy? Red Flags: Refuses to let you visit the home Cannot provide license or insurance details No meet-and-greet required Vague about daily routines or care Unwilling to accommodate your dog's needs No reviews or references available Home Boarding Regulations in England Home boarders in Basildon and Essex must comply with the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Engla