Frequently Asked Questions
What is a ‘Small Breed’ Dog?
While there is no strict definition, small dogs are generally those that weigh less than 10kg and stand less than 16 inches tall at the shoulder.
What if my dog is bigger than the ‘Small Breed’ definition?
Most breeds will still be considered for a trial if a client thinks that a home board environment specifically for small breeds is appropriate for their dog, but the size and temperament of every dog will have significant bearing on any final decision and the boarding fee.
My dog is not able to do long walks?
Dog walking arrangements can be adapted, just as all other boarding arrangements can be customised to suit each dog. Shorter walks, field play, on lead, off lead… all options can be considered, but special arrangements will be factored into the boarding fee.
My dog suffers from separation anxiety. Will they be left alone?
Penny’s Pooches relies on a number of qualified volunteer staff to ensure dogs are always appropriately supervised. The level of human engagement throughout the day (and night) can be tailored to the needs of each dog, but special arrangements will be factored into the boarding fee.
My bitch is not spayed. Will she be safe from impregnation during her board?
Penny’s Pooches cannot guarantee that impregnation will not occur during a board. However, on a first come first served basis, bookings will be managed to avoid intact dogs and unspayed bitches boarding at the same time. Bitches in season will not be walked in public spaces. Clients are responsible for highlighting if a season is expected during the boarding period.
My dog is intact. Is that a problem?
On a first come first served basis, bookings will be managed to avoid intact dogs and unspayed bitches boarding at the same time. The temperament and behaviour of intact dogs will also be specifically assessed at their initial trial and throughout boarding periods. Additional effort required to manage hormonal behaviour will be reflected in the boarding fee.
My dog is a 5 month old puppy. Is that a problem?
Usually, dogs under 1 year old will not be accepted for boarding by Penny’s Pooches. However, under exceptional circumstances, all ages, breeds and demanded levels of care will be considered. The level of care demanded by a puppy is significant and this will be reflected in the boarding fee.
Will my dog be made to sleep in a crate?
The sleeping arrangements for each dog can be prescribed by a client in their submitted Pooch Passport. No dog will be made to sleep in a crate if that is not its usual arrangement. Where no arrangement is prescribed by a client, Penny’s Pooches will determine the most comfortable arrangement for the dog.
What if my dog does not get on with other dogs?
Irrespective of any other fee paying boarders there are usually 2 resident dogs at Penny’s Pooches. If it becomes apparent at initial trial that shared space with other dogs is not possible, it is likely that care/boarding will be refused. However, the property does afford opportunity for isolation between boarding dogs and, under exceptional circumstances, all dogs can be considered. The level of management demanded by a dog with behavioural issues is significant and this will be reflected in the boarding fee.
Can my dog eat its meals separate from other dogs?
Penny’s Pooches recognises that some dogs, particularly those from single dog households, are uncomfortable eating meals in the same area as other dogs. Penny’s Pooches has 2 separate segregated dining areas and all reasonable meal time arrangements specified by a client can be accommodated.
What if my dog has a medical emergency?
Clients are requested to provide detail of their preferred vet. Should an emergency occur, every effort will be made to immediately contact the client and seek instruction. However, Penny’s Pooches is registered with a large local vet franchise with access to a vet hospital 15 minutes away. Emergency care for a dog will not be delayed waiting for client consent and all clients are required to sign a declaration accepting this ahead of each boarding period. Vet costs are additional to any agreed boarding fee.
Is there a maximum boarding period?
Maximum boarding periods will inevitably be dictated by availability. No more than 6 dogs will be boarded at any one time (usually including 2 of our own dogs). Inevitably there will be periods in the calendar specified as ‘no availability’ to reflect that maximum boarding numbers have been reached. ‘No availability’ is also used to provide a break for our own dogs. It is not possible to request a booking that extends through a period of ‘no availability’ and so these periods will naturally dictate maximum board length.
Is the garden fully secure?
Safety is our top priority. Our property is fully secured with double-gated entry, and we maintain constant supervision during all activities. We have a large, securely fenced back garden where dogs can run, play, and explore safely with access to drinking water. The space includes different areas for active play and quiet relaxation, ensuring every dog finds their perfect spot.
What if my holiday is cut short?
When a quote is offered and accepted, a contract is effectively entered for a defined period. The daily rate during this period is influenced by the length of the board. If the length of board changes significantly, Penny’s Pooches will, of course, consider an adjusted total fee that fairly reflects any lost opportunity to board other dogs.
What if I am not back in time to make handover at the end of the boarding period?
If availability exists, Penny’s Pooches will continue to board at the same agreed rate. Where no availability exists, alternative boarding arrangements in the local area will be secured but Penny’s Pooches makes no guarantee about the cost of boarding by other providers. Any additional expense (food, board etc) will need to be covered by the client.