When you can't bring your dog on holiday, professional boarding kennels provide excellent care and peace of mind. Ireland has many quality boarding facilities offering experienced staff, proper facilities, and loving care for your furry friend.
Why Choose Professional Boarding?
Professional boarding kennels offer experienced care, proper facilities, socialisation opportunities, and trained staff who can handle emergencies. Your dog will be safe, comfortable, and well-cared for whilst you're away.
Need shorter-term care? If you only need your dog minded for a few hours during the day, explore our doggie daycare services which offer walking, drop-off care, and adventure outings without overnight stays.
What to Look for in a Boarding Kennel
Essential Features:
- Cleanliness and hygiene: Well-maintained facilities with proper cleaning protocols
- Adequate space: Comfortable indoor and outdoor areas for each dog
- Qualified staff: Experienced handlers trained in animal care
- Veterinary arrangements: Access to veterinary care if needed
- Regular exercise: Scheduled walks and playtime
- Feeding schedules: Ability to maintain your dog's regular diet
- Security: Secure fencing and proper identification systems
Red Flags to Avoid:
- Reluctance to show you around the facilities
- Overcrowded conditions or too many dogs per staff member
- Unclean facilities or strong odours
- No vaccination requirements for boarding dogs
- Lack of emergency procedures or veterinary arrangements
Preparing Your Dog for Boarding
Before Your Trip:
- Visit the kennel: Take your dog for a visit to familiarise them with the environment
- Update vaccinations: Ensure all vaccinations are current
- Health check: Recent veterinary examination
- Comfort items: Bring favourite toys, bedding, or clothing with your scent
- Detailed instructions: Feeding schedules, medication requirements, exercise preferences
- Emergency contacts: Your contact information and your vet's details
Making Boarding Easier:
- Book well in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Consider a trial overnight stay before longer trips
- Maintain your dog's regular routine as much as possible
- Bring their regular food to avoid digestive upset
Recommended Boarding Kennels by Location
Dublin Area
DSPC Pet Hotel
Professional pet hotel offering luxury accommodation for dogs in the Dublin area.
Website: dspcapethotel.ie
Dublin Boarding Features:
- Convenient location for Dublin residents
- Professional staff and facilities
- Contact directly for availability and pricing
Cork Area
Old Mill Kennels
Established boarding facility providing quality care for dogs in the Cork region.
Website: oldmillkennels.ie
Cork Boarding Features:
- Experienced care in Cork area
- Established reputation for quality service
- Contact for specific requirements and booking
Galway Area
Galway Kennels
Professional dog boarding services for pet owners in the Galway region.
Website: galwaykennels.com
Galway Boarding Features:
- Serving the Galway area
- Professional boarding services
- Contact for availability and requirements
Important Note
These are examples of boarding facilities in different regions. Always research, visit, and verify that any boarding facility meets your standards and your dog's specific needs before making a booking.
Boarding Costs and Booking
Typical Boarding Costs:
- Standard kennels: €20-€40 per night
- Premium facilities: €40-€80+ per night
- Additional services: Grooming, training, or special care may cost extra
- Peak season surcharge: Summer holidays and Christmas periods
Booking Tips:
- Book early: Popular kennels fill up quickly during school holidays
- Cancellation policies: Understand the terms in case plans change
- Deposit requirements: Most kennels require a deposit to secure booking
- Insurance: Check if the kennel has appropriate insurance coverage
Alternatives to Traditional Boarding
Other Care Options:
- Pet sitting services: Professional sitters who come to your home
- Family and friends: Trusted individuals who know your dog
- Doggy daycare: Daily drop-off for shorter trips
- House sitting: Someone stays in your home whilst caring for your pet
Choosing the Right Option:
Consider your dog's personality, age, and health needs. Some dogs thrive in social boarding environments, whilst others prefer the familiarity of their own home. If you're planning to travel with your dog instead, we have a comprehensive guide to help you prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book as early as possible, especially for peak periods like summer holidays, Christmas, and Easter. Popular kennels can be fully booked months in advance. For non-peak times, 4-6 weeks notice is usually sufficient.
Most kennels require current vaccinations for distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and kennel cough. Some also require rabies vaccination. Check with your chosen kennel for their specific requirements and ensure vaccinations are up to date.
Most kennels discourage visits as they can upset dogs and make settling in more difficult. However, policies vary between facilities. Discuss this with your chosen kennel, but generally it's better to let your dog adjust to the routine without interruption.
Bring your dog's regular food, any medications, favourite toys or comfort items, bedding with your scent, and detailed care instructions. Avoid bringing valuable items. Most kennels provide bowls, leads, and basic bedding, but familiar items help reduce stress.
Peace of Mind
Quality boarding kennels throughout Ireland provide excellent care for your dog whilst you're away. Whether you choose a facility in Dublin, Cork, Galway, or elsewhere, proper research and preparation ensure your dog will be happy and well-cared for during your absence.
