It’s almost year-end and the celebrations are about to begin. Non-stop planning, constant chattering and much to look forward to. Since it’s that time of the year when many people plan to travel ‘where to board your dogs in the UAE’ is the oft-asked question. So, we thought of sharing a list of boarding facilities across the UAE.
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Cloud 9 Pet Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Founded by Emirati philanthropist and businesswoman Afra Sultan Al Dhaheri Abu Dhabi-based Cloud 9 Pet Hotel is a luxury boarding experience for dogs. The facility is purpose-built to keep dogs entertained, while keeping them safe under the supervision of on-site veterinarians. [Click here for the price list]
Romi’s Home Pet Nursery, Dubai
Romi’s Home Pet Nursery is a Dubai-based day care facility run by Romi Banerjee who is a genuine dog empath. Her love for dogs is visible in the way the facility is planned. Besides being a large and hygienic facility with indoor and outdoor play areas, there’s a swimming pool too. Above all, the staff at Romi’s are second to none. They are eager and empathetic to fulfil the needs of the pickiest of dogs. [Click here for the price list]
More boarding facilities in Dubai
The doggos of Dubai are spoilt for choice with many boarding facilities in the emirate. The list includes My Second Home Dubai, Woof Pet Services, Urban Tails Pet Resort, Fetch Dubai, Dubai Kennels & Cattery (DKC). More names include Spot, Dogwalk, Petsville, Churchwoods Pet Hotel & Daycare and Dog House, among others.
Homely Petz, Ras Al Khaimah
While you are looking forward to unwinding and relaxing your dogs will be on exploration mode at Homely Petz in Ras Al Khaimah. Run by Neil & Amanda Anderson Homely Petz is a tranquil facility spread across 10 acres where dogs can sniff, explore and happily roll in the grass. Special requests can be made for your dogs to go on beach trips and attend the doggy bootcamp. [Click here for the price list]
Pets Oasis Arcade, Umm Al Quwain
Managed by Dr. Elizabeth Thomas Pets Oasis Arcade at Umm Al Quwain is another boarding facility away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The facility promises luxurious soft bedding, gourmet food and caring humans who take care of the canines. [Click here for the boarding form]
PetCare UAE, Ajman
Those living in Ajman and looking for a facility close by you can check out PetCare UAE. [Click here for the price list]
Consider the following
Now that you know where to board your dogs in the UAE, here are a few more things to consider. This will help you to carefully assess what’s the best set-up for them. After all while you will be away having fun, you’d want the same for your dogs.
Ask for recommendations
Always ask for recommendations from friends, family and on social media groups. This will help you to narrow down a few places from a large list that suit your dog’s requirements. Some dogs have specific health, dietary, feeding, socialising and other requirements that should be clearly discussed with the boarding facilities to set the expectations. Don’t settle for anything less than what’s best for your dog in terms of comfort level.
Tour the boarding facility
While most day-care and boarding facilities provide exhaustive information through their digital channels, it’s still crucial to tour the boarding facility. Why? Because you will be able to gauge a few crucial things like hygiene, staff attitude and the general environment.
Prepare for the time apart
It’s always a good idea to familiarise your dog with the chosen boarding facility by leaving them there for a few hours in a day, at least a few weeks ahead of your travel. As they become familiar with the new place, they will be able to settle in quicker. If they don’t like the place, you will still have time to look for another. When they go for boarding remember to pack their favourite bed, blanket, toys, food & water bowls and throw in a few of your clothing items too. Always request the facility for updates through photos and videos.
Reach out to family and friends
Finally, if you have trustworthy and responsible family and friends living in the same city, you can always reach out to them to pet-sit your fur-kids. We all have some cool and loving friends (like Cozy Home for Fluffy Fellas) and family members who are open to taking care of your dogs for a few days. Especially if it’s unplanned, emergency travel staying with friends and family who your dog knows is a good idea. This will help them to settle in quickly without feeling too anxious.
However, planned or unplanned it’s always better to have an open conversation about the specific requirements such as food, walks, socialisation so your friends and family are aware of the responsibilities. Goes without saying that you must stock up some extra food, probiotics and medicines (where required) so that nothing runs out while you are away. In addition, leave behind your preferred veterinary contact details for any emergency. Drawing up a note with clear instructions and contact details always helps to have everything handy in one place. Importantly, before taking the decision to leave your dogs with family or friends, first gauge if they have the time and patience to take care of your dogs like the way you would. Only then take a decision.
Note: This article is meant for information and awareness.
