Boarding establishments

Boarding establishments care for dogs and cats when their owners are away from home. They offer either day boarding, overnight boarding or both.

Boarding establishments are normally established as a cattery and/or kennel. Some small boarding businesses offer 'home boarding' for up to 2 animals from the same household at any given time.

All boarding establishments must register as a Domestic Animal Business with the local council in the municipality that they reside.

It is important to be familiar with the minimum legal and welfare requirements boarding establishments are required to meet if you are thinking about using a boarding establishment for your dog or cat.

The Code of Practice for the Operation of Boarding Establishments is mandatory for all registered Domestic Animal Businesses – Boarding Establishments.

Tips when boarding pets at a kennel or cattery:

• Book well in advance to ensure you get a place during busy school or public holiday periods (you may need to book many months ahead).
• Visit the boarding establishment to make sure you're happy with the facilities, cleanliness and staff.
• Ensure your pet is vaccinated, microchipped and all worming and other medications are up to date.
• Help your pet feel more at home by leaving them with familiar items (for example, your old jumper) and its favourite toys.