Boarding terms & conditions

These terms summarise the information Skeldale needs before accepting a stay. A hard copy of the boarding agreement is signed when you drop off your dog.

Suitability and honest information

Please give complete and accurate information about your dog's health, temperament, behaviour and care needs. Some dogs may not be suited to Skeldale, including dogs who are highly anxious, suffer from separation anxiety, bark excessively, do not cope with strangers, or are prone to climbing or digging. I cannot accept dogs with a history of aggression towards humans or other dogs, as this would put their safety and the safety of others at risk. I may decline a booking where the stay would not be safe or comfortable for the dog or other boarders.

A trial night is recommended for a new customer before a longer stay. You are also welcome to view the kennels by appointment before booking.

Neutering requirement

All dogs boarding at Skeldale must be neutered.

Vaccinations

A valid vaccination certificate is required. Annual vaccinations and kennel-cough vaccination must be up to date at least four weeks before arrival. Details can be sent by email or WhatsApp when booking. Please also keep flea and tick treatments current and tell Skeldale about any recent illness before the stay.

Food, belongings and medication

Bring enough of your dog's normal food for the stay, packed in daily portions, plus their collar and lead or harness with a name tag. Skeldale supplies bedding, blankets, toys and bowls, although you may bring a familiar blanket, old T-shirt or favourite treats.

Prescribed medication must come with clear written instructions and enough medicine for the full stay. Injections cannot be administered.

Home boarding

Home boarders sleep in the kitchen and have access to the rest of the house during the day. They must be fully house trained. There is no resident dog. The house is small, so very large dogs cannot be accommodated. Suitability is based on the individual dog. A lead-trained and house-trained puppy over six months old may be accepted. Home boarding is limited to one dog, or two small dogs from the same household. A place is only confirmed when Skeldale is satisfied that the arrangement is suitable for every dog involved.

Veterinary treatment

If your dog becomes ill, a vet will be contacted and your dog will receive necessary treatment. Veterinary costs are the owner's responsibility and must be settled on collection. The owner is also responsible for damage their dog causes to kennel property.

Drop-off, collection and rates

Drop-off and collection are Monday–Sunday, 10.00–11.00. These set windows must be followed. Rates cover 24 hours from drop-off. If a dog is not collected within that period, another 24-hour period is charged. The same rates apply during holiday periods. Current prices are published on the rates page.

Payment

Payment is due in full on arrival and is cash only.

Bookings

Availability enquiries and provisional bookings must be checked directly with Skeldale. A stay is not confirmed until Skeldale has confirmed it directly.

Owner's agreement

By signing the boarding agreement, you confirm that you have read and accepted Skeldale's terms and rates and that the information supplied about your dog is complete and accurate.

Liability

All due and reasonable care is taken, but boarding remains at the owner's responsibility. Dogs have regular access to grass and outdoor play areas and may not be as clean at collection as they were on arrival.