Dales Active holidays and Boarding

Boarding Kennels, yes. Bored Dogs, never! Ready for sleep, Definately!

Owners boarding their dogs at our kennels are promised they won't return to a fat Fido or a unruly Rover. Our active holidays are for dog's who enjoy and need lots of exercise whatever the weather. With a daily 'all-weather' minimum 5 mile schedule along with our own dogs and other boarders your dog will spent more time out of the kennel than in it. This also gives him the opportunity to socialise and enjoy a natural pack situation whilst making new canine friends. We also spent a lot of time on the agility coarse and playing fly-ball if that is what your dog likes.

That's why many of our clients bring their dogs to us from hundreds of miles away for boarding. Places on our Dales activity holidays are limited so please ensure you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Your dog will be boarded in our purpose built kennels and as we like to keep it in the family, if you have 2 dogs they will of course be together in the same kennel.

Off lead exercise, on the paths and bridleways of Swaledale. Your dog, as well as enjoying controlled freedom will have training and commands re-enforced during the walks each day. The dogs adore the loving attention they are given and all owners comment and how happy and tired their pets are on return home.

Conditions for Dales Activity Holidays

Two-day assessment: Prior to boarding for the first time, your dog will be required to stay with us for a two day assessment. This is an important for your pet and for us. During the assessment your dog will be introduced to the staff, the routine, other guest dogs, and our varied walks. It is crucial for us to bond with your dog and get to know each other. We reserve the right within this two day period to send your dog home if the visit is proving unsuccessful. You must be available during the assessment period.

Please contact me for the 2 day assessment costs.

Good health: All dogs must be fully vaccinated, including the Intrac (Kennel Cough) vaccine. This should be given three weeks before boarding, and vaccination certificates must be produced on arrival. Please ensure that your dog has been wormed recently, and bring any medication they are taking, with full written instructions, so that we may continue to treat. In the event of any emergencies our vet (in nearby Bainbridge) will be consulted about your dogs health and will liaise if necessary with your veterinary surgeon.

Feeding and diet: We stock a large variety of foods but are not able to cover every possible brand and flavour. At the time of booking we will discuss your dog's dietary needs and advise if you will need to bring your own food. If you are advised to bring your own food please allow extra as your dog will probably be hungry after all the exercise. We also find it useful if you will advise us of any problems with treats that you maybe aware of.

It is of paramount importance if your dog is at risk from bloat that you tell us.

Grooming: Your dog is groomed everyday and checked daily to ensure there are no signs of ill health (eyes, ears, fur etc).

Golden Oldies: We welcome senior dogs and understand that the older dog may not need as much exercise as our other guest dogs. On arrival we offer a full accessment to decide on the correct amount of walking and exercise they need, and can manage, whilst they are in our care. We like to offer our golden oldies extra special attention and through our nurturing we make their stay as relaxing and as comfortable as possible. We can also take care of administering their medication so you don't need to worry while your away, they will receive the best care and attention that they deserve.

Your dog's daily routine.

This exercise consists of extensive fell walking, keeping in mind the breed of dogs that are with us; dogs who are unable to do this are walked separately.

Our daily walks are varied and include beautiful walks in and around the Eden Valley area with swimming in rivers and streams included as extra fun for those dogs who like getting wet!

Our day starts at 7.00am when the dogs are let out for morning emptying (which is always cleared up), and is followed by breakfast. After a schedule of several long walks, lots exercise and plenty of fun, the day ends at 9.30pm when they are out on the fell again for last calls of nature before they are tucked up with a few biscuits before lights out ready for another busy day ahead.

Please note: All dogs must be fully up to date with their yearly vaccinations, including kennel cough. Please bring your certificate with you as I will otherwise not be able to have your dog on my premises.