Choosing dog boarding or a pet sitter in Australia
Updated 2026-10-16. General information, not vet advice.
Ask your vet. This guide is general information, not vet advice. It does not diagnose or give doses. Your vet knows your dog and your area, so ask them about anything specific.
Time away from your dog takes some planning. The best choice depends on your dog’s age, personality and health, and on your budget.
Your options
- Boarding kennels: staff on site, set routines and group or individual runs.
- Home boarding: your dog stays in someone’s home, often with fewer animals.
- In-home pet sitter: someone visits or stays at your place, so your dog keeps their familiar surroundings.
- Friends or family: free and familiar, if they are reliable and your dog knows them.
- Daycare: for daytime only, usually not overnight.
Questions to ask
- What vaccinations and parasite prevention do you require?
- How many dogs are looked after at once, and how many staff are there?
- Where will my dog sleep, and how often will they get out for exercise and toilet breaks?
- What happens in an emergency, and which vet do you use?
- How do you handle hot weather, storms and noisy times? See hot weather safety.
- Can I visit first, and do you offer a trial?
- Do you have insurance? Are you using written terms and an emergency contact process?
- Will my dog be kept with others or separately, and how do you choose playmates?
Before you go
- Book early, especially in school holidays and around Christmas.
- Update vaccinations and ask your vet about parasite prevention (including ticks) and any kennel-related health advice.
- Write down feeding amounts, medication your vet has prescribed, routines, likes, fears and your vet’s details. See preparing for a vet visit.
- Check microchip and registration details. See registration and microchipping.
- Pack familiar bedding, a toy and their usual food.
Settling in
Keep goodbyes calm and short. Ask for updates if you like. If your dog gets worried about being left, read separation anxiety and talk to your vet or a trainer before booking longer stays.
FAQs
Are boarding kennels regulated?
Rules differ by state and territory and may involve councils or codes of practice. Ask the business what standards they follow.
Should I do a trial stay?
A short trial helps many owners. Your dog can get used to the place, and you can see how they cope.
What vaccinations are needed?
Facilities set their own requirements, often including up-to-date vaccinations. Ask your vet and the facility well ahead of time.
Is home sitting better than kennels?
It depends on your dog. Some dogs prefer home. Others like company. Think about what your dog is like.