Leaving your dog in kennels for the first time can feel like a big step, but with the right preparation, you can help make their stay as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re heading away for a weekend break, a family holiday or a business trip, packing a few familiar items can help your dog settle into their temporary home.
At Hollybank Cattery & Kennels, we provide a safe, caring and comfortable environment where every dog receives plenty of attention, exercise and personalised care. Here’s our guide to what you should pack before your dog’s stay.
Your Dog’s Food
One of the most important things to bring is your dog’s usual food.
Changing a dog’s diet suddenly can lead to digestive upset, especially when they’re adjusting to a new environment. By providing their regular food, you help keep their routine consistent and ensure they continue eating as normal.
If your dog has any special dietary requirements or allergies, let us know when making your booking.
Any Medication
If your dog takes medication, please bring enough for the duration of their stay, along with clear written instructions.
Be sure to tell our team about:
- Dosage requirements
- Administration times
- Medical conditions
- Any recent veterinary treatment
Your dog’s health and wellbeing will always be our priority.
Favourite Blanket or Bedding
Although we provide clean, comfortable bedding, many dogs feel more relaxed with something familiar from home.
A favourite blanket or bed carries familiar scents, helping your dog feel secure while settling into their kennel.
Favourite Toy
Packing one or two favourite toys can provide comfort and entertainment during your dog’s stay.
Avoid bringing valuable or irreplaceable toys, but a well-loved ball or soft toy can help reduce anxiety and make your dog feel more at home.
Lead and Collar
Please ensure your dog arrives wearing a secure collar with an identification tag and bring a lead for arrival and departure.
If your dog uses a harness instead, that’s absolutely fine too.
Vaccination Records
To protect every dog staying with us, all guests must be fully vaccinated before arriving at our kennels.
Please ensure your vaccinations are up to date and bring any required documentation if requested when booking.
This helps us maintain a safe and healthy environment for every animal in our care.
Emergency Contact Details
Before you leave, make sure we have:
- Your mobile number
- An emergency contact
- Your preferred veterinary practice
- Any special care instructions
This ensures we can contact you quickly should we ever need to.
Tell Us About Your Dog
Every dog has their own personality, routine and preferences.
Let us know about:
- Feeding routines
- Walking habits
- Favourite games
- Sleeping routine
- Behaviour around other dogs
- Any anxieties or nervous behaviours
The more we know, the easier it is for us to provide the individual care your dog deserves.
Leave the Worry Behind
Many owners worry more than their dogs do!
Once your dog has settled into their routine, they’ll enjoy plenty of attention, regular exercise, comfortable accommodation and experienced care from our dedicated team.
Our goal is to make every dog feel safe, relaxed and happy throughout their stay.
Choose Hollybank Cattery & Kennels
At Hollybank Cattery & Kennels, we’ve built our reputation on providing exceptional care for dogs and cats while their owners are away. We understand every pet is part of the family, which is why we treat every guest with the same love, care and attention we’d give our own.
Whether your dog is staying for one night or several weeks, you can enjoy your time away knowing they’re in experienced and caring hands.
Book Your Dog’s Stay Today
If you’re planning a holiday, business trip or weekend away, contact Hollybank Cattery & Kennels today to book your dog’s stay. We’ll ensure they receive the highest standard of care, giving you complete peace of mind while you’re away.
