5.0

My home provides a calm rural environment with a large, fully fenced garden and direct access to quiet countryside walking. I manage every dog according to the individual rather than assuming that what works for one dog will work for another. Introductions between dogs are handled carefully, interaction is supervised and I do not believe dogs should be forced to socialise simply for the sake of it. Some dogs enjoy company and play. Others need more space, quiet time or closer management. I take temperament, age, size, energy levels, behaviour and the instructions you give me into account when planning their care. I am happy to follow established boundaries and training rules closely. If your dog is crate trained, has particular commands, must not have certain toys or treats, cannot go on furniture, needs controlled exercise or has another established management routine, I would much rather know and maintain it properly than inadvertently undo your work. I am comfortable administering oral medication and caring for dogs with additional needs where I have been given clear instructions. Off-lead exercise is never assumed simply because a dog has recall at home. It is based on your instructions, the dog, the environment and my own assessment of what is safe. For first stays I normally prefer to arrange a meet-and-greet. It allows me to meet your dog, understand their normal behaviour and routine, and gives you the opportunity to see the environment in which they will be staying. If you have a genuinely urgent or last-minute situation where a meet-and-greet is not practical, please still get in touch. I will assess what is realistically possible rather than automatically saying no. There is currently no resident dog at my home.

There isn’t really one fixed “typical day”, because I build the day around the dogs staying with me. For many dogs, mornings start with a countryside walk directly from the house before breakfast or afterwards depending on their normal routine. During the day there is access to the secure garden, company in the house, rest and whatever level of activity is appropriate. A young, energetic dog may need considerably more exercise and interaction. An older dog may prefer shorter walks and plenty of time sleeping somewhere comfortable. A working dog may have an established structure, commands and rules that need maintaining. A puppy may need frequent garden breaks, supervision and reinforcement of the training already being done at home. I’m also very happy to reinforce existing training and good manners during normal daily life, provided I understand how you already work with your dog. I don’t impose a completely different training system on somebody else’s dog. Dogs need downtime too, so the aim is not to keep them constantly entertained. I want them to be able to walk, play and engage when appropriate, but also properly settle and feel at home. Afternoons normally include another walk or outdoor time, followed by a quieter evening in the house. Throughout the stay I can provide photographs and updates according to what gives you the right level of reassurance. If you are a particularly anxious owner, tell me. I would much rather know what would make you comfortable and provide that where I can. Ultimately, the best day is the one that suits your dog rather than the one that fits a standard boarding timetable.