You’re going on vacation, flying to visit family, taking a day trip or heading somewhere that isn’t dog-friendly for a few days. It’s time to figure out what to do with your dog while you’re away, but maybe you aren’t sure where to start.
Boarding your dog could be the right option for you and your pup, but you’re likely to feel better about your choice if you do your research early and make an informed decision about who to trust with your dog. Keep reading to learn more about the average cost of boarding your dog and what you can expect if you choose Lucky Dog!
What Is Typically Included in Overnight Dog Boarding?
While most dog boarding facilities offer similar services, it’s important to research the specifics of what each facility offers to its clients and four-legged guests. Most will include the following in their daily or overnight rates (and it’s a good sign if they do).
Supervised Playtime
Playtime and socialization are good for dogs, so make sure your chosen boarding facility provides playtime with other dogs (or one-on-one time with a staff member if your dog prefers people). Because boarding facilities operate year-round, they should maintain safe environments, both indoor and outdoor, with non-slip surfaces that are safe in all types of weather.
Timeouts and Rest Periods
Non-stop playing can quickly exhaust your dog, so supervised rest periods are a must. These breaks from running around with their friends give the staff a chance to make sure everyone is hydrated, rested, and feeling good.
Lots of Bathroom Breaks
Regular potty breaks are important, especially for puppies and senior dogs who might need to go more frequently. Some boarding facilities will take your dog for an on-leash walk for potty breaks, while others have separate potty areas attached to play areas, so whoever needs to go can go.
Safe Feedings
Make sure to provide the staff with the correct food and warn them about any food allergies or sensitivities your dog might have. Most boarding facilities will provide food at an extra charge, but double-check that it’s something your dog won’t have trouble eating, first.
Hallmarks of a Safe Dog Boarding Facility
The services included in your boarding facility’s rates aren’t the only things you should pay attention to. Look for the following:
Proof of Vaccination
All good dog boarding facilities will require your dog’s vaccination records before allowing your dog on the premises. This is a good sign that the facility takes the health of their dogs very seriously. It also means you can be sure that all the other dogs on site are vaccinated and won’t expose your pup to anything.
A Clean Facility
Make sure to take a tour of the facility before dropping your dog off. It should be clean of feces and urine and clear of any debris or hazards that could pose a danger to your dog.
A Good Staff-to-Dog Ratio
Constant supervision is necessary for safety, so the facility should have enough staff members to handle the job. Having around one staff member for every fifteen dogs is a good ratio, as it ensures there will be enough people to handle any unusual situations.
A Trial Period or Interview Process
A good boarding facility will take the time to make sure your dog is a good fit and that they aren’t overly stressed by their new environment. This interview process is a great time to ask about the facility’s emergency procedures, how they handle the administration of medications, and any other questions you might have.
Average Rates for Dog Boarding
Keep in mind that rates can vary depending on where you live and the types of amenities the boarding facility offers. Generally, boarding facilities in large cities tend to be more expensive and coincide with the average cost of living.
On average, overnight dog boarding costs between $25 and $85 per night.
At Lucky Dog, we charge $44 for the first dog, and $24 for a second dog.
To learn more about our rates, packages, and discounts, visit our dog boarding page here.
Word of caution: Be wary of any overnight dog boarding facilities with extremely low rates. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is, and it isn’t a place you should trust with your best friend.
Additional Costs to Keep in Mind
Because dog boarding facilities are businesses with a trained staff, they have administrative expenses and need to stay on schedule to run smoothly. Because of that, you can probably expect a few additional fees in some circumstances, such as:
- Late pick-up fees (if you miss pick-up time)
- Meal fees (if you don’t provide enough)
- Treats (if you would like to get your dog a sweet treat like a peanut butter kong)
- Baths and Nails (if you want to signup for a bath on pickup)
- Emergency vet fees (which you should approve and sign before you leave your dog)
Now that you have a good idea of how much overnight dog boarding typically costs and what should be included in nightly rates, you’re ready to get out there and start searching for a boarding facility that fits your budget and provides a great experience for your dog.
