What to Ask Before Booking Dog Boarding Services

Leaving your dog while you head off on a trip isn’t always easy. You want to know they’re safe, happy, and being well looked after. That’s why picking the right dog boarding place matters. There are lots of options out there, but not all of them suit every dog. Here’s what to ask to make sure your dog’s in good hands while you’re away.

Is the Place Right for Your Dog?

In Brisbane, you’ll find plenty of dog boarding in Brisbane centres, but they’re not all the same. Not all places are good for small, quiet dogs. Some are better for bigger, busier dogs. You should ask if they’ve taken care of dogs of the same size, breed, or amount of energy before.

What kind of care do they offer? How many dogs do they take at a time? Is there room for the dogs to run? You can obtain a solid idea with a quick call or email. 

What’s the Daily Routine Like?

Dogs like routine. Ask what their day will look like. Will they have set feeding times? Do they get regular walks or playtime? What about quiet time for naps?

Some centres run on a strict schedule, while others let dogs roam and play more freely. You’ll want to know which one suits your dog better. If your dog’s used to early walks or eats at a certain time, it’s good to know the centre can match that.

Are Staff Qualified and Always Around?

Check to see if the staff has been properly trained. Can they give first aid to pets? Do they know how to tell if a dog is sick or stressed? You should also find out if there is someone there overnight or if the place is empty when the business is closed.

Find out how many people are taking care of the dogs at the same time. Some places will even send you pictures of your dog, which is great if you want to feel better or just check on them.

What Happens if There’s an Emergency?

Even with the best care, things can go wrong. Ask what the centre does if a dog gets sick or injured. Do they have a vet on-site? Or do they work with a local clinic?

Make sure they’ll call you if something happens. A good place will already have a clear plan and won’t mind walking you through it. 

How Are Dogs Grouped and Watched?

If your dog is playing with others, ask how they are grouped. Most reputable dog care centres group dogs based on their size, age, or personality traits. You don’t want a small, nervous dog tossed in with big, bouncy ones.

Also ask how much time your dog will spend with others and how closely they’re supervised. Dogs can become tired or grumpy, particularly in unfamiliar environments, so it’s crucial to have someone constantly monitoring them.

Can You Check the Place Out First?

If a place won’t let you come for a visit, that’s usually a red flag. Most good centres welcome tours. When you visit, look around—does it smell clean? Is it too noisy? Are the play areas tidy? Does it feel calm?

Seeing the space in person helps you trust the centre more. Your dog can also get used to the smells and sounds before their stay, which can help them settle faster later.

A Bit of Planning Makes a Big Difference

Booking a dog boarding service isn’t something to rush. It’s about more than just convenience—it’s about giving your dog a safe, caring space while you’re gone. Asking a few questions now means fewer worries later.

With the right place, your dog will be happy and well cared for, and you’ll be able to enjoy your trip knowing they’re in good hands.