Haltwhistle dog boarders

Frequently Asked Questions

Making Our Home, Your Pet’s Home

Frequently Asked Questions

Making Our Home, Your Pet’s Home

We know that leaving your dog, even for a short while, can feel daunting. They’re not just pets, they’re family. That’s why we’ve created a caring, home-from-home environment where your dog is treated with the same love, attention, and respect they enjoy with you.

To help put your mind at ease, we’ve answered some of the most common questions from dog owners below. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to chat about your dog’s needs.

If your question hasn’t been covered below, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Every dog is unique, and we’re more than happy to talk through your pet’s individual needs. Our goal is simple: to give you peace of mind and to give your dog a safe, happy, and loving home while you’re away.

Haltwhistle dog boarders

Q: What makes your home boarding different from kennels?

A: We provide a true home-from-home experience. Your dog stays in our family home, living as part of our household, not in a kennel. This creates a calm, familiar environment that helps even the most sensitive or anxious dogs feel safe and loved. We offer walks 2-3 times a day dependant in your dogs requirements along with lots of garden & enrichment time.

A: We believe in quality over quantity. We are licensed for a maximum of four at any one time, whether from the same household or from different households. We ensure each dog receives the individual love, care, and attention they deserve. We are more than happy to accommodate solo boarding only,  this is determined by owner preference.

A: Yes. We are fully licensed with Northumberland County Council (Licence No: NAB/299, 5 Star) and carry comprehensive pet business insurance. This gives you complete peace of mind that your dog is in safe, professional hands.

A: It is extremely rare for any dogs to be left alone, any necessary human absence tends to be co-ordinated so any dog would never be left for more than an extremely short period of time. Your dog will be treated like part of our family, surrounded by company, care, and attention throughout their stay.

A: Your dog will sleep indoors in a safe, comfortable area of our home. We encourage you to bring along their usual bed to help them settle quickly with familiar scents from home. We can supply a crate if that is what they are used to.

A: Yes. We have an enclosed, secure garden with CCTV, so your dog can enjoy outdoor playtime in complete safety.

A: Please bring your dog’s regular food, any treats, and any favourite toys or comforts from home. Keeping familiar routines helps your dog feel settled and happy. All dogs need to wear a collar. We have a range of beds including 2 different size crates should your dogs regime include these.

A: Yes. All dogs must be up to date with their core vaccinations and have regular flea and worm treatments. Proof of vaccinations will be required before boarding.

A: Your dog’s wellbeing is our top priority. Should they become unwell, we will contact you immediately and, if necessary, seek veterinary care with your own vet or our trusted local practice.

A: Absolutely. We understand how hard it can be to leave your dog, so we send regular photos and updates to reassure you that they’re happy, safe, and enjoying their time with us.

A: Yes. Following a successful meet & greet we insist upon an overnight trial stay for all first-time boarders. This transition helps your dog settle in and gives you peace of mind before a longer holiday, along with ensuring we are the right environment for your dog.

A: Yes. We only accept small to medium breeds and are unable to accept dogs that don’t comply to any of the following:

  • Aggressive or aggressive tendencies to people or children
  • Destructive (bite or chew furniture, furnishings or household items)
  • Known to bark, howl or whine excessively, either daytime or night time
  • Known to pull excessively hard when walking on a lead
  • Jump up repeatedly, especially at peoples’ faces
  • Unneutered males
  • Known to scent mark about the home
  • Not fully housetrained
  • Dogs must be ok not sleeping in humans bedroom
  • All dogs should have a basic level of training

A: OFQUAL Level 3 trained in Canine First Aid & CPR, Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Diploma and a certificate in Canine Communication.

A: We have the following in situ at Burnside Home Boarding Ltd:

  • CCTV on our premises
  • Smoke Alarms
  • Carbon Monoxide Alarms
  • Temperature gauges
  • Lockable gated entrance, anti-dig fence line, secured hedgeline and some stone wall boundaries
  • First Aid equipment, Fire extinguishers and fire blankets
  • Fans/Heaters for hot or cold weather (Heaters used in supervised areas only)
  • Spare blankets, towels, harnesses, collars, leads, bowls, Isolation hold area incase of infectious disease
  • Paddling pool & Cool Vests for hot weather
  • Enrichment toys – Kongs, Treat Balls, Lick Mats, Tug Toys, Squeaky Toys, Ball, Ball Thrower, Chew Toys
  • Licence ID tag for boarding dog collars

Book A Meet & Greet

Ready to give your pet the perfect home-from-home? Simply complete our quick form to arrange a friendly meet and greet. Once you have completed the form, I will contact you to discuss a suitable day and time for us both.

It’s the best way for us to get to know your dog, show you around our facilities, and answer any questions you may have. This first step ensures your pet feels comfortable and cared for before their trial or full stay.