Planning a trip and wondering what to do with your dog? You have two main options: boarding at a facility or hiring a pet sitter to care for your dog at home. Both have their place, and the right choice depends on your dog's personality, your trip length, and your budget.
Let's break down the pros and cons of each.
Boarding Facilities
Boarding facilitiesāsometimes called kennels, pet hotels, or doggy hotelsāprovide supervised care for your pet at a dedicated location.
Pros of Boarding
- 24/7 supervision: Staff are always present to monitor dogs
- Socialization: Many facilities offer group play sessions
- Structured routine: Consistent feeding, play, and rest times
- Professional care: Staff are trained to handle emergencies
- Amenities: Many offer grooming, training, or webcam access
Cons of Boarding
- New environment: Some dogs find unfamiliar places stressful
- Exposure to illness: Close quarters can spread kennel cough or other diseases
- Less individual attention: Staff care for many dogs at once
- Cost: Premium facilities can be expensive ($50-100+/night)
- Limited availability: Popular times (holidays) book up fast
Best for Dogs Who:
- Enjoy playing with other dogs
- Adapt well to new environments
- Have no serious anxiety issues
- Are up-to-date on vaccinations
In-Home Pet Sitting
A pet sitter comes to your home (or takes your dog to theirs) to provide care while you're away.
Pros of Pet Sitting
- Familiar environment: Your dog stays in their own space
- Individual attention: One-on-one care and affection
- Maintained routine: Sitter can follow your dog's normal schedule
- Reduced stress: No transport or new environment to adjust to
- Home security: Someone checking on your house while you're away
Cons of Pet Sitting
- Less supervision: Sitter isn't there 24/7 (unless they stay overnight)
- Finding the right fit: Quality varies widely between sitters
- Limited backup: If your sitter gets sick, there may not be coverage
- Trust factor: Someone has access to your home
- Potentially isolating: Less socialization for social dogs
Best for Dogs Who:
- Have separation anxiety
- Are senior or have health issues
- Don't do well with other dogs
- Are creatures of habit
Questions to Help You Decide
Ask yourself these questions to determine the best fit:
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How does your dog react to new places? If they're anxious in unfamiliar environments, home sitting may be better.
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Does your dog enjoy other dogs? Social butterflies often thrive at boarding facilities with group play.
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Does your dog have medical needs? Both options can handle medication, but discuss specifics with providers.
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How long is your trip? For a weekend, the stress of boarding might not be worth it. For two weeks, 24/7 supervision might be important.
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What's your budget? Pet sitting often costs $25-50 per visit or $75-100 overnight. Boarding ranges from $30-100+ per night depending on the facility.
A Third Option: Hybrid Care
Some pet parents combine both approaches:
- Daycare + home sitting: Dog goes to daycare for socialization while a sitter handles mornings and evenings
- Boarding with home visits: Board your dog but have a friend check on your house
- Multiple sitters: Different sitters for day visits vs. overnight stays
How to Evaluate Either Option
Whether you choose boarding or sitting, look for:
- References and reviews: What do other pet parents say?
- Insurance and bonding: Are they covered if something goes wrong?
- Experience with your breed: Some dogs have specific needs
- Emergency protocols: What happens if your dog gets sick or injured?
- Communication style: Will they send updates and photos?
Make an Informed Choice with Barkbase
Comparing options in your area? Barkbase helps you find and compare both boarding facilities and pet care services. Read reviews, compare pricing, and book with confidence.
Traveling soon? Start planning your pet's care at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during busy travel seasons.