Active holidays and boarding

Board, yes. Bored, never!

Owners leaving their dogs at our kennels are promised they won’t return to a flabby Fido or a rebellious Rover. These are active holidays for dogs who enjoy, and need, lots of exercise whatever the weather. Our daily vigorous ‘all-weather’ exercise schedule along with the other guests dogs, means your dog will spend more time out of the kennel than in it, and will have the opportunity to socialise and enjoy a natural pack situation whilst making new canine friends.

That’s why some owners bring their dogs to us from literally hundreds of miles away for boarding as they know their dog will get daily long-distance walks (off leads) across the Northern Cumbrian fells and through beautiful land, which we have exclusive access to thanks to our local land owners permissions.

We accommodate a maximum of four dogs at any one time in our first class, comfortable, spacious and heated kennels, and, as we like to keep it in the family, if you have more than one dog, they will of course be together in the same kennel. Each dog will enjoy controlled freedom & will have training and commands re-enforced during the walks each day.The dogs adore the loving attention they are given, and the only occasional problem is persuading the pet to go home!.

Here are a few points you will need to know:

Three-day assessment
Prior to boarding for the first time, your dog will need to stay with us for a three day assessment. This is an important time for your pet and for us: your dog will be introduced to the staff, the routine, other guest dogs, and our varied walks. Of equal importance, it enables us to bond with your dog and get to know each other. I reserve the right within this three day period to send your dog home if the visit is proving unsuccessful. Please contact me for the 3 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 an emergency our vet (in nearby Appleby) will come out to attend to your dog and will liaise if necessary with your veterinary surgeon.

Feeding and diet
We do not provide the food. When your dog comes to stay, it is most important that they continue with their usual diet as this is what they are used to. Please ensure that you bring extra quantities as your dog will be having a very active holiday and will probably need extra fuel!. Written instructions are always useful.

Grooming
Your dog is groomed up to twice per week, and is checked every day 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 assessment 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.

To find out more, and to discuss available dates, call me on 01931 715282 or email ingridgrayling@hotmail.com

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.