FAQs

Ask Me Anything

Will my dog sleep with you upstairs?

To ensure a comfortable and peaceful boarding experience for everyone, we kindly request that all dogs are both house trained and accustomed to sleeping downstairs at night. If your furry friend is used to sleeping with you and you have concerns about excessive barking or crying throughout the night, boarding might not be the most suitable option for them. It's important to consider their well-being, as a restless night for them means a restless night for us as well!

Do you have experience with rare or exotic pets?

I have experience looking after a tortoise and bearded dragon. I am always looking forward to looking after new animals!

Will you look after my XL / American Bully?

I will definitely look after your beloved bully, however, due to the new laws I will only board them if:

- They are lead and muzzle trained.

- They don't pull, I'm only small and they are very strong dogs!

- You must bring your Certificate of Exemption.

- You must bring proof of 'Insurance Against Your Dog Injuring Other People'.

I love all dogs, and I'd hate for anyone to think I wouldn't look after their Bully because of the new laws that are in place. I am unable to accept boisterous, out of control or aggressive dogs - this goes for any breed.

Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prepare-for-the-ban-on-xl-bully-dogs

How many dogs can you walk at once?

Personally, I believe that walking your dog one-on-one is preferable to walking a group of dogs because it ensures that your dog receives my entire attention and care while we are out walking, and it allows me to learn about your dog's specific needs. Of course, if you have more than one dog, that's absolutely fine!

When we're out and about, your dog and I will form a bond in which the dog will learn to trust me and will be lavished with affection & cuddles!

How many dogs can you board at once?

I only take in one family's dog(s) at one time. Dogs get plenty of opportunity to socialise with other dogs when out walking and I find dogs boarding with me thrive at having a carer's attention to themselves. I am currently licensed to board two dogs at a time, so if you have three dogs I'm afraid I am unable to help, unless it is in your own home.

My pet needs to go to the vet. Will you take them?

If a dog is injured on a walk the dog will be taken to the nearest vet and emergency treatment will be given. The client or emergency contact will be contacted at the earliest opportunity, the client will give consent to any treatment. A first aid kit is kept in my car and an emergency first aid course has been completed.

Should the pet need to visit the vet while you are away, I will first make contact with you and then arrange to see YOUR vet. If it is an emergency and we cannot make contact with the owner, I will take the pet to my registered vet.

The vet will provide me with a receipt, and the bill can be settled when the owner comes to collect their pet. I will regularly monitor the animals' health by doing daily health checks. The pets eyes, nose, ears and mouth will be checked daily to ensure they are clean and happy.

If I find the pet has a runny nose, gunky eyes or anything else that may be abnormal for that animal, I will call the owner to let them know if it is serious. If it is not serious, I will clean the area and keep an eye on it, to then let them know when they come to collect their pet.

If I find any lumps, bumps or anything I do not feel is normal for the animal I may call the owner to confirm if they were aware. I will ask owners to state anything abnormal on the registration form.

There is of course a disclaimer form to be signed when the pet is in my care stating: "I am fully aware that if my dog becomes ill whilst boarding at Ella’s Pet Services that I am responsible for any veterinary treatment and that Ella’s Pet Services are not liable in any way."

Does my dog need to be vaccinated even though it's not mixing with other dogs?

Yes we do require that all dogs are up to date with their vaccinations as this is also part of the licensing rules set out by the councils. We will need to see your dogs' vaccination book to confirm these have been done. Please leave the vaccination book with the carer for the duration of the board.

Are all dogs suitable for home dog boarding?

No, we can only accept the average family dog. I will consider puppies if they are house trained but are unable to accept boisterous, out of control or aggressive dogs.

Do you accept puppies or dogs on medication?

Generally I do not take in puppies under SIX months of age, however, at my discretion I may accept younger dogs provided they are fully housetrained. I am more than happy to board dogs on medication.