Instagram
Facebook
TwitterDog holidays: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
My location is just right for dog owners in Morecambe and surrounding areas, such as Lancaster, Heysham, Middleton, Overton, Bolton-le-Sands, Hest Bank, Carnforth, Warton, Nether Kellet, Over Kellet, Caton, Bare, Torrisholme, Scotforth, Galgate, Brookhouse and Littledale.
I also welcome owners from further afield who might want to visit our beautiful Morecambe Bay area and/or the Lake District.
-
Yes, I have a dog boarding licence from Lancaster City Council to board up to two dogs from the same household in addition to my own dog. The licensing system ensures that I meet strict health and safety standards and gives you peace of mind about your dog’s welfare. You will be able to view my licence at my home when you visit.
-
Yes, I have specialist dog boarding insurance, which includes public liability insurance. You can view my certificate of insurance when you visit my home.
-
Yes, David and I have pet first aid qualifications from the PDSA. If you wish, you can view our certificates when you visit.
-
As per my licence from Lancaster City Council, my dog holidays are for up to two dogs from the same household, along with my own dog.
-
During the day your dog will share the different areas of our home with us. At night they will sleep in a designated room; usually our garden room which gives access to our enclosed garden. This is also next to our bedroom, so I will hear if they show any signs of needing reassurance, particularly when they first visit. Our home is, of course, fully heated and ventilated as required. I have dog beds in different sizes but you may bring your dog’s own bed and/or bedding if you prefer, together with their crate if they use one.
-
With your agreement, and depending upon their health and age, I aim to walk all dogs twice a day, rain or shine. I generally walk on the coast or in the countryside and usually for at least 45 minutes, often longer. I make an exception in extremely hot weather when I walk dogs at the coolest times of the day and for the minimum time required for basic exercise and toileting.
-
Yes I do, but only if you have given me written consent and only if I am in a safe place for them to be off lead.
-
Your dog does not require the Kennel Cough vaccination before you send them to me for home boarding. However, if you have given the vaccination/booster to your dog, I require four full weeks before I can allow them to stay.
-
To avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach by changing their diet, I ask that you provide your dog’s usual food for their stay.
-
Most dogs adjust to a new environment quickly once they get used to all the new smells. They will be free to explore my home (and get to know Max!) when you bring them for the Meet-and-Greet. One of the aims of this meeting is to assess how well they will settle in.
During their stay I can also provide photo and video updates to help put your mind at rest. I will post these to my Facebook page (with your permission) or send them privately via WhatsApp if you prefer.
-
All I need is your dog’s usual food, any treats you normally give and their crate if they are trained to use one. I provide everything else they need, such as bowls, leads, poo-bags, toys, beds and bedding.
You could also bring one or two favourite toys and their own blanket or cushion that has a familar smell (so please don’t wash it!)
-
The law states that when in public, a dog must wear a tag with its keeper’s details (name, address and contact number.) Our local Dog Warden requests that, during dog holidays with me, your dog wears a tag with my details. I have tags available for this purpose and I will attach my tag when your dog arrives for boarding.
-
As part of the booking procedure, you will sign a Veterinary Release form. This allows me to obtain veterinary advice and treatment on your behalf while you are away. If this becomes necessary, I will make every effort to contact you and/or your emergency contact to keep you up to date.
I also keep pet first aid items in case of emergencies.
-
All new owners and their dogs must attend a Meet-and-Greet with me before I can accept a booking.
For you, it’s an opportunity to:
- meet me, my husband and our own dog, Max
- visit my home and see where your dog would be living and sleeping
- ask any extra questions that might arise
For me, it’s an opportunity to:
- meet you in person
- get to know your dog a little
- further assess the suitability of Gail’s Home Dog Boarding for your dog
The Meet-and-Greet will usually start with a short local walk for you and your dog together with me and Max. When we get back, I will give you a tour of the house and garden (while David puts the kettle on!) and we can then sit for a while to ask each other any further questions. You should probably allow roughly an hour for the whole meeting.
-
Unlike some other dog boarding establishments, my Meet-and-Greet is completely free of charge!
-
I will always try to accommodate your request to look after your dog(s). However, I cannot offer dog holidays to dogs that:
- are large (over 25kg)
- have not been neutered (castrated/spayed)
- are unruly or untrained
- have any form of active contagious illness
- are aggressive
- do not have an up to date vaccination record
- are not up to date with flea and worm treatments
I consider each application individually, taking into account all available information. By applying, you are agreeing to respect my decision.
-
Once I have approved your application, you pay a 50% non-refundable deposit to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due 48hrs before the start of your booking.
-
Sorry, no. I take payment by cash or bank transfer only.
-
If you cancel up to 28 days before the start of your booking, I will refund any fees paid except the non-refundable deposit.
For cancellations between 28 days and 48hrs before the start of your booking, I will require 75% of the fees.
Cancellations within 48hrs before the start of your booking require full payment of the fees.
-
Generally this will depend on whether or not I have another booking immediately after yours. If you are delayed on return, it is important that you inform me immediately. I will always do my best to make alternative arrangements for continued cover, even if I am unable to personally continue with care following the end of your booking.
-
No, sorry. I offer dog holidays only (as per the conditions of my dog boarding licence.)
-
With a few exceptions, I don’t board dogs that are not castrated or spayed, because:
-
The incidence of same-sex aggression in entire (non-neutered) males can be higher than that in neutered males.
-
Even when on-lead, a “coupling” can occur; more so if they are off-lead. This poses risks to the dogs and the people around them. If your boy impregnates someone’s girl or if your girl is impregnated by someone’s boy, unwanted puppies can be difficult to home. Our local dog wardens are regularly called out to unwanted litters.
If you are unsure whether to neuter your dog, I recommend you discuss this with your vet. -