Frequently Asked Questions

Meet & Greet
Daily Care & Routine
Food,
Belongings & Medication
Safety, Licensing & Standards
Resident Dogs
Fireworks & Noise Sensitivity
Travel & Transport
Health Requirements
Cancellations & Deposits
Do you take one family at a time?
Yes. We offer exclusive, one-household-only boarding, meaning your dog never has to share our home with unfamiliar dogs. This creates a calm, safe and personalised experience.
Do you offer one-night stays?
Yes. We happily offer flexible one-night weekend stays, perfect for weddings, evenings out, or short trips.
Do you offer longer holiday stays?
We specialise in weekend boarding and day care, offering a peaceful, one-family-only service around our family’s working routine. Longer holiday stays can sometimes be accommodated and are assessed individually, depending on your dog's needs and how well they settle with us.
Lucy works from home for part of each morning, so we’ll discuss whether this routine suits your dog during your Meet & Greet.
Do you offer weekday day care?
No. Day care is offered weekends only (Friday half day after 14.30, Saturday and Sunday), as either a half day or full day.
Do we need to attend and Meet & Greet before booking?
Yes. A free one-hour Meet & Greet is required before any stay.
This visit includes:
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Tea/coffee for owners
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A tour of our home and garden
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Time for your dog to explore
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Introductions to our family and resident dogs
It ensures your dog feels comfortable in our home and that we are a good match for their needs.
Where will my dog sleep?
Wherever they feel most at home. Dogs may sleep:
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In our bedroom
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In the dedicated guest dog room
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On a cosy sofa or dog bed downstairs
We follow your dog’s usual routine as closely as possible.
How many walks will my dog get?
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Full-day guests: 2 tailored walks
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Overnight guests: 2 tailored walks per full day of their stay
Walks are designed around your dog’s age, comfort level, and preferences.
Where do you walk?
Common routes include:
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The River Stour
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Pamphill
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Badbury Rings
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Nearby open countryside
All dogs will be walked on the lead.
What enrichment activities do you provide?
We use a rotating enrichment programme including:
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Scent and search games
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Problem-solving activities
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Our dog-friendly sand pit
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Garden exploration
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Calm companionship and rest
This ensures every day feels stimulating and enjoyable.
What should I bring for my dog?
Please bring:
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Their food
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Lead and secure collar
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Bedding or blanket
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Crate if they are used to it
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Any favourite toy or comfort item
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Medication (if needed)
We provide safe enrichment toys during their stay.
Can you administer medication?
Yes — we can administer oral medications with clear instructions.
Are you licensed?
Yes — we are fully licensed by Dorset Council for home boarding and meet all of the extra optional higher standards.
Are you insured?
Yes — we hold full pet business insurance suitable for licensed home boarding and day care.
What qualifications do you have?
Our team holds:
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Ofqual Level 3 Dog Boarding & Day Care
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Canine First Aid
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Canine Body Language
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Predatory Motor Patterns & Behaviour
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Dog Walker - Managing Multiple Dogs on Walks
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Ongoing CPD in canine welfare
Are the dogs supervised?
Yes. Your dog receives live-in care and is never left for long periods.
Do your own dogs mix with guest dogs?
Buffy and Minnie are friendly and welcoming, and introductions are managed carefully.
If your dog prefers more space, your dog will always have access to their own lounge.
Can my dog stay during fireworks (e.g., New Year's Eve/November weekends?
We only accept dogs who are comfortable with noise or who have established coping strategies.
We will discuss your dog’s needs during your Meet & Greet to ensure this night is suitable.
How do you safely transport dogs?
We use secure crates or harness attachments in our Ford Tourneo, depending on your dog’s size.
A temporary ID tag with our contact details is added to your dog's collar for extra safety.
What vaccinations does my dog need?
Dogs must be up to date with:
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Core vaccinations (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus)
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Leptospirosis
They must also have current flea and worm treatment.
Proof is required at the Meet & Greet.
Do you accept un-neutered dogs?
Yes — depending on temperament and circumstances.
We cannot accept bitches in season.
What is your cancellation policy?
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Flexible notice periods for standard bookings
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50% non-refundable deposit for peak dates
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Full policy available on our Pricing page
We always take genuine emergencies into consideration.
