Travelling abroad but cannot take your beloved Fido or Fluffy with you? If pet travel is a no go, you need to find a home away from home that will offer your furry friend 5 star treatment during its overnight stay.
Discover numerous pet boarding services with Yellow. From traditional boarding kennel facilities to pet sitters who do home visits, either option will offer you peace of mind while you're away. Filter your results based on your preferences such as location and amenities offered.

Kennels and pet hotels

One of the most popular options pet owners usually go for are the various boarding kennels available on the island. A traditional kennel facility typically houses dogs and cats in individual cages for the majority of their stay but offer intervals of outdoor play and at times, may also have dedicated dog walkers.

Ensure you select a pet accommodation whose staff is fully trained and qualified to provide the care, love and attention needed but can also take care of your pet if it suffers from a medical condition like diabetes or epilepsy. It is important to discuss such issues with the caretakers before dropping off your pet, while you need to clarify any queries that you may have. A pet-friendly attitude is obviously key, however, it is crucial that facilities are up to standard, spotlessly clean and safe. The facilities should also offer enough space for your furry friend to run and play, as well as rest quietly.

Worried where you're going to leave your rabbit, guinea pig or parrot? Do not fret. Many pet hotels can accommodate other types of animals including reptiles and exotic animals.

Pet sitters and home visits

Yet, if having your dog or cat confined in its own space is not something you desire, another alternative would be a pet sitter. Acting as a pet caretaker, he or she usually comes to the pet owner's home or in contrast, you may have to take your pet to the sitter's home. The added bonus with this service is that your pet receives individualised care and attention compared to boarding kennels, while it can prevent any unnecessary stress since your pet will remain in its familiar place. In addition, there is no need for your pet to adapt to a new routine or environment. Another reason why you may want to consider a pet sitter is the fact that there is less exposure to illnesses and things like parasites since your dog or cat does not come into contact with other pets.

Another alternative is home visits. Though these are common for cats, many dog owners decide to use a dog home visit service. Visits are usually pre-set for a specific time of the day and typically occur every single day, while they may last anywhere between 15-45 minutes long. During such visits pets are not simply fed, but time is spent actively playing and interacting with them, whereas some sitters also provide dog walking services.

Other services offered

Apart from acting as a temporary foster home for your pet, a pet boarding facility can provide other services which may or may not be related to your pet's overnight stay. Grooming is a common service offered, however, many hotels for dogs provide dog training. From basic obedience training to agility training and one to one classes, dog training can be particularly beneficial if your pet is aggressive or fearful.

Some pet boarding facilities can even assist you with pet relocation, a process that at times can prove lengthy, while if not done correctly may lead to your pet being quarantined or not cleared at customs or even worse, may be sent back. This service consists of things like pet transfer to or from the airport, taking care of practicalities like getting hold of appropriate travel crates and pet dispatch abroad.

Nowadays, having your pets form part of your wedding celebration has become a fad. As a result, pet caretakers or sitters can help you bring your dream to reality by looking after your pet throughout the wedding ceremony and reception, while making certain that your beloved animal is hydrated and fed throughout the event.

When it comes to pricing, boarding kennels usually charge specific rates based on the number of days your pet will stay there. Others may charge a higher or lower price depending on the size of your pet, however, some pet hotels will offer discounts for multiple pets that share occupancy. This is helpful in cases where, for instance, an owner may have more than one dog. On the other hand, pet sitters may charge a rate on a per-visit or per-day basis. Any additional service provided during your pet's stay or home visit such as grooming, administering medication or veterinary care, will be charged at an additional cost.

How to prepare your pet before going abroad

A major concern owners usually have when thinking of travelling abroad is the stress placed on the pet when being put in an unfamiliar place with numerous other animals. However, there are a number of things you can do beforehand to alleviate the stress and make the transition smoother. For starters ensure that your pet can follow basic commands and is well socialised both around people and pets. A number of pet boarding facilities work their best to reduce this stress by offering one-on-one play time for example. Another good idea would be to take some familiar objects like blankets and toys from home with you, which will allow your pooch to have a piece of home right with it. Lastly, ensure that your pet is up-to-date with vaccinations and do not forget to take along any medication, if needed.