Your dog is part of the family, so if you need to entrust them to someone else’s care, you want to make the right choice. Checking your chosen dog boarder is licensed is a great first step. Read on to learn more about how licenses for dog boarders’ work.
The law on licenses
Anyone who arranges or provides home dog boarding must have a license from their local authority to run a dog-caring business. The first thing a local authority looks at is whether a dog carer meets the definition of a dog boarding business. The amount of income they make is relevant, but most inspectors will look at how and where your doggo will be looked after. The same licensing rules do not apply if they are kept in outside kennels, or someone comes to your home to care for your pooch while you’re away.
Arrangers or providers need a license if they look after your doggo in their home during the day or overnight.
Why does licensing matter?
For us, the main reason licensing matters is that it gives you peace of mind knowing that your dog carer has met all the relevant safety standards. It shows our customers that our dog carers take their responsibilities seriously. Our dog carers are experienced dog owners but want to make sure they have thought of everything when looking after your beloved pooch. After all, every dog is different with their own personality and needs.
We’ve advocated for anyone who arranges or provides dog boarding to have a license, so we were delighted when the previously outdated rules were updated. Before we start working with a new carer, we carry out home checks, then also the council will visit the carer and inspect them too.
What checks do licensed dog boarders have?
Before granting a license, a local authority inspector goes to a dog boarder’s home to check whether it is safe, secure and meets the proper welfare standards. For example, dogs must stay in a safe home and have direct access to a secure garden with suitable barriers to prevent dogs from escaping. They will also check to see whether each dog has a separate area within the house and that it has kept clean, warm, and free from hazards.
PetStay dog carers only look after one dog at a time unless you have more than one pooch in your family. However, inspectors will look at whether dogs can be separated where necessary. They will also check whether you can feed dogs a suitable diet and give them opportunities to exercise.
How you can check whether a dog boarder is licensed
When an arranger or provider is granted a license, they will have a unique license number and printed document showing the number and which local authority granted it. They must prominently display their license at home so you can see it when you visit.
They must also show their license details on their website if they have one. When you visit our website to find your local PetStay branch, each person has their own page so you can learn more about them. You can find their license details there, so you will know they have met all the relevant standards before getting in touch.
At PetStay, your dog’s safety and well-being are our first priority. Our dog carers look after every aspect of your dog’s care so that you can enjoy a holiday or day out without worry. Check here to see why we are your best choice for quality dog boarding!