FAQ’s
General FAQ’s
Please take your time to read through these generally asked questions. Anything we haven’t covered do let us know, we’re happy to help! Email us enquiries@holidays4dogs.co.uk
What is home dog boarding?
Home dog boarding is when your dog goes to stay in someone else’s home where your dog lives as part of the family with their own bed, food, toys and enjoys all the comforts of a home while away. There are no kennels and no cages involved. The stay must always be personal and one to one providing all the loving care, attention and exercise that your dog requires according to your instructions.
Just as you are right for your dog, your dog’s carer must be right for them too. Not everyone will be suitable for your dog and neither may their property, so look closely into suitability for YOUR dog. Be aware of the consequences of using online directories of un-audited and often un-insured carers and read all the Terms and Conditions of any service. Never just go for the nearest or the cheapest option for your dog, they’re better than that! Research well and read on….
At Holidays4Dogs we know all our carers. With careful consideration and listening we will help you to select a suitable choice of carer for your dog. Your offered carer will not only be located as close as possible to you but they will also have confirmed their availability when you need them and importantly match all your dog’s needs.
Once suitability has been matched, you will be invited to meet your dog’s carer at the carer’s home. You will then be given the opportunity to book your Holidays4Dogs carer and a happy successful stay will follow. If for any reason you or your dog’s carer has any concerns over suitability at the visit an alternative matched carer will be offered. Our aim is to provide you with complete peace of mind leaving your dog with an approved Holidays4Dogs carer. Your dog’s carer will be someone you can trust, can rely upon and know that your dog will be happy with when you go away. Booking with Holidays4Dogs home boarding means you have the assurance of being part of a professional, reliable and experienced organisation providing the very best in customer satisfaction before, during and after your dog’s stay.
Can Holidays4Dogs collect my dog?
Holidays4Dogs do not offer a collection service however it is possible that this could be arranged directly with your dog’s carer should they be willing to do so. There will be an extra charge for this service payable directly to your dog’s carer.
What if my flight is delayed or I'm late back?
Ring your carer as soon as possible to explain and make changes to collection arrangements. If you arrive a day late full fees will be charged.
What happens if I collect my dog early?
If you return from your holiday early and decide to collect your dog before the due date there is no refund of your booking payment. Any carer fee refund is entirely discretionary but not expected.
Does my dog have to wear a collar?
Yes. This is essential at all times. It is a legal requirement and enables your dog to wear a Holidays4Dogs I.D tag for the duration of it’s stay.
Do you accept all breeds?
Holidays4Dogs treat every dog as an individual and do not discriminate on breed type alone. However, our carers express to us the breeds they are happy to accept, some love larger breeds including guard breeds others prefer smaller breeds. We will only offer you a carer that is comfortable with your dog’s breed type.
Please be aware there is sometimes difficulty finding carers who will accept mature (1 year +) entire (un-neutered) male guard breeds specifically Rottweilers and Staffordshire Bull terriers and American Bull Dogs but we will try our best! Holidays4Dogs do not accept Pit Bull type breeds or those registered under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
My dog doesn’t get on with other dogs, could this be a problem?
No, not necessarily. Many of our carers are non-dog owners themselves and therefore your dog doesn’t have to meet any other dogs directly. Your dog MUST however be friendly towards people and manageable when it sees other dogs out walking. Your dog must not be seen to be presenting threatening behaviour towards other dogs or people out walking. We ask that you are honest and open about ALL of your dog’s behaviour traits and discuss any concerns you have with us. Holidays4Dogs always appreciates and expects your total honesty and will do everything we can to help.
What areas do Holidays4Dogs cover?
We cover most of England and Parts of Wales and Scotland. New approved carers are joining us all the time. Please check on the map for areas covered, and register FREE to search for dog carers your area. Call us if you want to chat.
Do you accept Bitches on heat?
Holidays4Dogs reserves the right not to accept bitches that are expected to be or are in season during the stay. If you are concerned about the timing of your bitches season you must make us aware. Some carers with prior knowledge may accept said bitches with provisions in place. See our terms and conditions.
Do you accept puppies?
Some Holidays4Dogs carers are prepared to accept puppies, so long as they are house trained (or certainly getting the idea!) – generally from 6 months old – do ask. If puppy crate trained, own crates must be provided. An extra supplement of up to £5/day may be asked for by your dog’s carer for looking after your puppy.
Do you accept older dogs?
Many of our Holidays4Dogs carers are happy and prepared to look after older dogs with specific needs. It must be noted that your dog must be clean in the house, have reasonable mobility, mental health and sight. Dogs over 10 years of age are requested to complete our senior dog information before the stay. We also offer an optional loss of booking fee insurance should your older dog pass away before any stay. Please ask at time of booking.
Remember, with any dog stay, you will always meet your chosen carer before any stay to make sure everything is right for your older dog.
Are all dogs suitable for Holidays4Dogs?
No. Holidays4Dogs home boarding is suitable for friendly family dogs who live in the home (not in a kennel). We do not accept protection dogs or those trained as guard dogs.
We do not accept any dogs with aggressive tendencies towards humans (whatever the size of dog); un-housetrained dogs or dogs with incontinence problems; dogs that are likely to chew furniture/carpets etc. or dogs that are over boisterous or not under control, particularly the larger breeds.
If your dog causes any damage to the carer’s home whatsoever, any costs must be reimbursed to the carer or Holidays4Dogs. Excessive barking is considered to be anti-social and not behaviour all home boarders are prepared to accept. Some have neighbours to consider!
Do Holidays4Dogs accept more than one dog?
Yes. Most of our carers accept two dogs from the same household. We NEVER split dogs that usually live together. We also accept 3 or more dogs from the same household in select homes. Note: We do NOT accept dogs from other families at the same time.
Do you do pensioner discounts?
No, sorry. Our services are in great demand and while we make every effort to remain affordable to most people we are competitive in the areas in which we operate.
Please note: The service we offer is an exclusive, one-to-one service (only your dog staying) – Not to be compared with cheaper, independent boarders where your dog is one of multiple dogs staying.
Does the time that I leave or collect my dog effect the cost?
No. We charge by the calendar date and not by the 24 hours. This means that you have your carer available all day on the day that you wish to leave your dog and on the day you wish to collect your dog (particularly early and late times by prior arrangement with the carer). This gives you complete flexibility.
Min. stay is therefore 2 days (1 over night).
Booking FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions about your dog’s booking; everything from payment, cancelation, how early you need to book and confirming your dog’s stay. Anything not covered please do email us enquiries@holidays4dogs.co.uk
How do I pay for my dog's booking?
Your dog’s holiday booking details are sent you via email unless specifically asked to post. You will be given two simple methods of booking fee payment; Stripe credit/debit card secure payment online or Go-cardless which is very similar to a one off online bank transfer. Go-cardless payment methods are also covered by The Direct Debit Guarantee giving you complete security. You will be provided with a secure payment link in your dog’s holiday booking letter. Secure booking payments may also be taken over the phone by calling your Holidays4Dogs contact.
You must pay your dog’s Carer their required expenses when you drop your dog off at the beginning of the stay (cash or by agreement with your dog’s carer). You will be quoted exactly what this is before booking. Carer payment is BEFORE your dog’s stay on drop off NOT at the end of the stay.
What if I have to cancel or postpone my holiday. Will I lose my booking fee?
The booking fee is non-refundable, however depending on the circumstances of holiday cancellation/postponement and notice given, partial refunds or credit may be possible.
Are there any extra charges?
Unlike many other boarding agencies there are no extra charges and cuddles most definitely come free! Holidays4Dogs do not insist on collecting and dropping off your dog and charging you for doing so. We know that you prefer to see your dog settled in yourself and be reunited with a happy dog at the end of the stay.
Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day are the only days that are subject to an additional Carer expense of £10 per day made payable directly to your dogs Carer. Our carers also expect an additional expense of £4/day/dog for a giant breed and reserve the right to charge an additional expense of £5/day for a young puppy. See our fees page https://www.holidays4dogs.co.uk/fees/
How far ahead do I have to book?
As far ahead as possible. We do get very busy and hate to disappoint. Also, if you have booked before, it is always nice to book with the same carer where possible. We do try and accommodate last minute bookings, but it is far easier if you can try to book in advance.
When is the booking fee paid?
Your dog’s booking fee must be paid to Holidays4Dogs to confirm your dogs stay. Booking confirmation and payment is expected within 4 days of having met your dog’s carer.
Your dog’s boarding fee is made up of two parts –
1. The booking fee (part of the daily rate and not in addition to it).
2. The independent carer expenses – due when you deliver your dog to your carer and is paid directly to the carer by yourself – cash preferred (negotiable with individual carer).
Carers FAQ’s
Everything you need to know about our Carers, anything not covered please do contact us enquiries@holidays4dogs.co.uk
My dog usually sleeps on my bed. Will the carer allow him to do this?
Carers are not expected to allow dogs to sleep on their beds; however some are more obliging than others perhaps allowed to sleep close or in the bedroom. Please ask. In general all dogs are expected to be used to being put to bed at night.
When I want to book the same Holidays4Dogs carer again can I contact them direct?
You may call your regular dog carer to see if they are free on the particular dates you require but do ALWAYS follow up with an online booking request or contact Holidays4Dogs directly. ALL stay requests with our carers must be made through your Holidays4Dogs office contact or on-line via our booking site.
Holidays4Dogs cannot be held responsible for any booking request we did not know about. If speaking to your carer we STRONGLY suggest that you book these dates right away. All bookings are confirmed on a first come, first served basis. Repeat bookings can be made via our unique booking site by selecting ‘New Holiday – existing Carer’. Your carer will reply to you with a confirmation acceptance or rejection within 3 days. If a carer is unable to accept your dog’s dates of stay you will be contacted by Holidays4Dogs who will endeavour to offer you an alternative, closely matched and available carer to meet. Alternatively you may cancel your booking request without charge.
My dog loves kids but knows when he's had enough. How can I explain this to my carer and are my carer's children going to understand this?
Holidays4Dogs do not accept any carers who have children under 5 years of age. Any children in the carers household must demonstrate a firm understanding dogs and very likely own their own dog. All our carers understand the need not to over-fuss new dogs staying and always operate extreme caution with children of any age around any dog. We do expect you to be honest and open about your dog around children and express any concerns you may have. Only dogs who are used to children in the home may be considered to stay within a family home.
Can I stay with a different carer next time?
Of course! Not a problem. You can do this although often we find owners prefer their dog to stay with the same carer time after time, as familiarity helps your dog to settle well. If you would like a new carer for your dog just ask or select ‘book with a new carer’ online.
What if I visit my suggested carer and I have some problems?
Let us know and we will make every effort to provide an alternative carer for your dog. Any feedback about our carers you may wish to give us is always appreciated and helps us maintain our high standard of carers as well as assisting you to select the right carer in the future.
Will my dog's carer allow my dog off lead if I want them too?
Yes most will, but always after a period of say 2 days depending on your dog and how familiar the carer is with your dog and the surroundings in which your dog is staying. If allowed off lead, the area your dog is let off the lead will always be a safe area and away from any roads, livestock and obvious hazards (not necessarily enclosed). If you insist that you want your dog let off the lead the carer must be in agreement and you must accept full responsibility and liability for your dog while off the lead if your dog runs away, gets lost, causes an accident, bites someone or gets into a fight with another dog. Many owners are happy to supply a flexi lead as an alternative. Please do discuss with us.
What happens if my dog damages the carers home?
You will be liable – see our Terms & conditions. Any damages caused by your dog to your independent carer’s home or possessions other than reasonable wear and tear will be paid for by you directly to your dog’s carer on your return. Holidays4Dogs reserves the right to place damages incurred on your credit/debit card.
Do I pay my dog's carer?
Yes.
You must pay your dog carer their required expenses when you drop your dog off at the beginning of the stay (cash or by agreement with your dog’s carer). You will be quoted exactly what this is before booking via email and again on confirmation. Please check your junk mail and read all correspondence. It is important to do so.
Will I meet my dog's carer before I book?
Absolutely! This is essential for the well-being of all concerned; your dog, you the owner and your dog’s carer. You carer will ring you to arrange a convenient time to visit with your dog. Only once you have had a successful visit will your booking fee be taken by Holidays 4 Dogs.
How do you vet your Carers?
All our dog carers have to pass our 80 point check list. Being a Holidays4Dogs approved carer is a very privileged position, only those persons who meet ALL our requirements and have passed our thorough interview and application procedure are welcomed as part of our team.
This includes:
- Phone interview asking ALL the right questions
- Thorough background checks
- Application invited by sending out our detailed application pack – Includes Carers T&C and Role & Responsibilities of being an approved Carer
- Application return and interview
- Home and garden checks
- Carers own dog (if they have one) assessed for sociability
- Personal references checked
- Full insurance provided
- Licence application made with local council if applicable
How do Holidays4Dogs Carers differ from other Home Boarders?
Holidays4Dogs carers do not mix dogs from other households, in other words, we do not accept other dogs to stay while your dog is with us.
- Our Holidays4Dogs carers are thoroughly approved by us including personal references.
- Holidays4Dogs carers are known by their own vet as a professional registered approved Holidays4Dogs carer.
- Your dogs carer knows the care your dog is provided with is of the utmost importance to us. Holidays4Dogs has been established over 17 years and holds an exceptional professional reputation.
- Holidays4Dogs carers understand good customer care and will keep you updated on your dogs stay.
- Holidays4Dogs only welcomes carers who reach and maintain our very high standards.
- Your dog’s personal carer is supported by our experienced Holidays4Dogs team 24/7.
- Holidays4Dogs carers are proud to work with the UK’s market leader in home boarding.
- All our approved carers are dedicated to giving the best service possible to owners and their dogs.
- Your dog’s carer is personally matched and chosen to suit your dog’s needs. They will devote their time to your dog only.
- Our carers are responsible to Holidays4Dogs code of practice, terms and conditions and are fully insured through Holidays4Dogs.
Holidays4Dogs fully appreciate the position of the trust and responsibility they hold. Our Holidays4Dogs carers not only genuinely love dogs, they know dogs too. In fact, our dog carers are very often people just like you, they all love to look after your pet in the best way possible.
Insurance & Welfare FAQ’s
Anything we have not been asked before and included here please do ask!
What will I need to provide for my dog?
You will need to provide upon drop off everything you would expect if your dogs was staying with family or friends including enough food for the duration of your dogs stay and any treats allowed, favourite toys and grooming equipment, any medication and of course your dog’s own bed. Collars and leads must be supplied.
My dog is not vaccinated out of choice or is Homeopathic treated, can they still be accepted to board?
Unfortunately due to new DEFRA legislation and licensing conditions of the Animal Welfare Regulations 2018 Holidays4Dogs are no longer able to accept dogs that are not vaccinated for a medical reason or personal informed choice . We are however able to accept Titre Tested dogs. Info on this can be found in this Holidays4Dogs article https://www.holidays4dogs.co.uk/titre-testing-dogs/ Please ask your vet.
We apologise to any of our clients with un-vaccinated dogs, your dog is no longer able to stay with one of our non-dog owning carers even though your dog will not be in direct contact with any other dogs other than any out walking (no more risk than if they were at home). If you are concerned please discuss with us by calling 0800 2300 266.
Information on Homeopathic treatment can be found on the British Homeopathic website www.britishhomeopathic.org/ however, homeopathic treated (un-vaccinated) dogs are not permitted to use home boarding or kennel services in the UK.
What happens if my dog is ill while I am away?
Your dog’s carer will take your dog directly to your own Vet in preference or otherwise to the carers own local vet at your expense. Our carers have an emergency number to contact the office 24/7 where they can discuss any worries or concerns over your dog’s condition. If we think Veterinary treatment is necessary, your carer will take your dog along to the Vet themselves. Costs incurred by Holidays4Dogs or by your dogs carer will be reclaimed from you on your return. According to your instructions as to whether you’d like to be contacted & the nature of the treatment we will contact you on your emergency number. If you need contacting this will be at the first opportunity to discuss what has happened and keep you updated of your pet’s progress.
Does my Dog have to Microchipped to stay?
Yes, it’s the law that your dog is Microchipped. Within our Terms & Conditions Holidays4Dogs will not accept any dog that is not Microchipped.
Read more here https://www.holidays4dogs.co.uk/microchipping-and-holidays-4-dogs/
My dog is on medication. Is it alright for the carer to administer this?
Yes certainly – please give full details and keep us updated on your dog’s condition. Your dog’s carer will be required to complete a medication record – please enquire.
I am worried my dog will not settle? What can I do?
If your dog suffers from very severe separation anxiety or you feel will become very anxious away from you please discuss with us before hand. It maybe that an over night trial stay is recommended well before your holiday to provide both you, your dog and your dog’s carer the peace of mind. Any trial stay must be arranged via Holidays4Dogs and will subject to the standard minimum 2 day stay rate.
What kind of insurance does Holidays4Dogs have?
All our carers are covered for against Public Liability, Care Custody and Control (legal liability to animals in our care) and non-negligent cover (accidental injury to animals in our care). Please contact your local office for details on cover variation. Our carers are not covered for damage caused by your pet to their home. You are responsible for any damages beyond normal wear and tear caused by your pet.
Should you agree to use Holidays4Dogs service and that of our independent carer you agree and acknowledge as follows:
I AGREE THAT I AM RESPONSIBLE WHEN BOARDING MY DOG IN ANOTHER PERSON’S HOME FOR ALL RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY, DEATH OR DISABILITY TO THE CARER, THE CARERS FAMILY OR ANY THIRD PARTIES THAT MIGHT RESULT OR ARISE FROM THE BOARDING OF MY DOG IN THE CARERS HOME. I AM ALSO RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE, LOSS OR HARM TO THE CARERS OR ANY THIRD PARTY’S PERSONAL PROPERTY WHICH MY DOG MAY INCUR. I UNDERSTAND THAT THE RISKS THAT COME WITH OWNING A DOG AND TO LEAVING MY DOG IN THE CARE OF ANY PERSON, WHETHER ACCUSTOMED TO OR NOT, HAS INHERENT RISKS. BY PROCEEDING WITH THIS TRANSACTION, I THE OWNER UNDERSTAND THAT I VOLUNTARILY GIVE UP ANY RIGHT TO SUE THE ABOVE MENTIONED PARTIES AND RELEASE THE CARER, HOLIDAYS4DOGS LTD AND ALL HOLIDAYS4DOGS FRANCHISEES AND EMPLOYEES OF ALL LIABILITY INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY INJURIES, ILLNESS, OR ACCIDENTS, WHICH MAY OCCUR AS A RESULT OF MY DOG USING YOUR SERVICES.
Does my dog need to be medically insured to stay?
No, we do not insist that your dog is medically insured. Veterinary insurance is completely your decision. Some owners like to have their pets insured & leave policy details with us, others prefer to pay for Veterinary expenses if & when they are required. If your dog has an accident involving medical treatment this will be covered by our insurance however any other normal vet fees for illness or minor treatment will be paid for by you. If you don’t have your own pet insurance and are considering this as an option why not check out one of our Holidays4Dogs pet insurance great value policies.