Holidays for Dogs

What To Expect When Home Dog Boarding Or Doggy Daycare In Poulton-le-fylde

Leaving your dog in someone else’s care is a big deal, we get it! Whether doggy daycare or home dog boarding, this page walks you through exactly what a typical day looks like, so you know where your dog is, what they’re doing, and how they’re being cared for every step of the way.

Arrival & Drop-Off Process

Drop-off is calm, welcoming, and un-rushed. When you arrive, we’ll:

  • Greet your dog by name and give them time to settle
  • Do a quick visual check to make sure they’re happy and healthy
  • Confirm any ‘need to know’ for the day, like medications, etc.

Some dogs bounce straight in, others need a minute, both are totally fine. We follow your dog’s lead.

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Daily Routine Overview

Dogs thrive on routine, so each day follows a familiar structure while still allowing flexibility for individual needs. A typical day includes:

  • Morning arrival and settling-in time
  • Supervised play and social time
  • Outdoor enrichment
  • Feeding (if required)
  • Rest and nap periods
  • Calm afternoon activities
  • Pick-up and wind-down time

No two dogs are the same, and we adapt the day to suit their age, energy level, and personality.

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Feeding & Special Needs

We’re happy to accommodate your dog’s normal routine.

  • Please provide your dog’s own food unless otherwise agreed
  • Feeding times follow your instructions
  • Medication can be given if clearly labelled with written guidance

If your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or special requirements, we’ll discuss these with you before their first visit.

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Socialisation with Other Dogs

Social time is carefully managed, not chaotic.

  • We only take a small number of pre-vetted dogs
  • Your dog truly gets personalised care
  • Interaction is supervised at all times
  • Not all dogs want constant play and that is respected

Dogs who prefer human company or solo time are never forced into group play.

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Rest & Nap Times

Rest is just as important as play. Throughout the day, dogs have access to:

  • Quiet areas to relax
  • Comfortable bedding
  • Time away from stimulation

Naps happen naturally between activities, helping dogs stay calm and happy.

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Safety & Supervision

Your dog’s safety is our top priority.

  • Dogs are supervised at all times
  • Secure indoor and outdoor areas
  • Well-maintained safe spaces in a home to home environment
  • Clear procedures for emergencies or illness
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Pick-Up & End-of-Day Routine

Pick-up is relaxed and organised. When you collect your dog, we’ll:

  • Let you know how their day went
  • Share anything notable (meals, naps, play, mood)
  • Make sure your dog goes home calm and content

Many dogs leave pleasantly tired which gives you the night off!

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Communication with Owners

We know how reassuring updates can be. Depending on your booking, we may provide:

  • Messages or photos during the day
  • End-of-day updates
  • Honest feedback about how your dog is settling in

If anything out of the ordinary happens, we’ll contact you promptly.

Testimonials

What Clients Say About Holidays for Dogs

Jo B.

“My dog Jasper thoroughly enjoys going on his holidays to “Aunty Shirley’s ” He gets 5 star treatment, as do we- the owners. Shirley obviously loves the dogs in her care and they love her. She is firm but kind and treats your dog as you would treat them yourself. Whilst I am away I do not even have to think about Jasper – let alone worry. I know he is having a great time – plus Shirley sends me Jasper updates. I would recommend Holidays for Dogs any time – and frequently do.”

Staffie from Thornton

“Shirley gives excellent home from home dog boarding care to any dog that stays with her. Sometimes dogs are afraid to be away from their owners but Shirley puts them at ease and they come to love her. My dog absolutely loves her to bits and is sad when he has to come home. He gets lots of walks and plenty of company throughout the day during his ‘holiday’. I would certainly recommend this service to anyone who loves their pet enough to care for their wellbeing whilst they go on holiday.”

Kath

“Shirley is a genuine and caring lady, with your pets best interest at heart. She looked after our 2 dogs and dealt with their “behavioural quirks” in a professional and thoughtful way. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her – a home from home for your pet. We will definitely be returning.”

Jill Walton

“It is home-from-home for Ted – he can never get in through the gate fast enough! I know he is safe and happy with Shirley and having fun with her other guests.”

Julie

“Shirley is absolutely fab with dogs I was very pleased that my cavapoo and toy poodle had a fab time here while I was on my hol’s. I felt totally relaxed knowing my dogs were in the best care.. I will definitely be booking them in for next year..”

Katherine

“Shirley is amazing with him, he doesn’t like a lot of people but he does love his Auntie Shirley. I always know when I leave him with Shirley that he is being well cared for. I know he follows her around the whole time and even sleeps outside her bedroom! I can’t recommend Shirley enough, she is truly brilliant with dogs and genuinely cares for them. Don’t hesitate to book your dogs stay here, you won’t be disappointed.”

Bessie Beevers

“I have been visiting Auntie Shirley for the last 8 weeks for Day Care and she has taught me lots of things and helps me to calm down. I am a little Yorkie cross and can be very boisterous. I have made lots of friends both dog and human whilst with Auntie Shirley. She has a lot of patience and has mine and the other dogs welfare at heart. Thank You Auntie Shirley.”

Archie

“Archie is a regular visitor and loves his time at “Aunty Shirley’s”. So we can get on with enjoying our holiday and know that he’s a happy doggy!”

Sarah J.

“I have used this lady services for the last 8 years for my dog ‘Maureen’ and can definately recommend her. She is outstanding in her commitment for caring and looking after the well being of the dog whilst you are away. Whilst you are away, the dog is looked after in every aspect ie walked, played with, fed etc and I know I can go on holiday without worrying at the back of my mind how my dog is doing. I have never felt the need to write a review for Shirley, but now wish to tell everyone about her excellent service.”

Jo B.

“My dog Jasper thoroughly enjoys going on his holidays to “Aunty Shirley’s ” He gets 5 star treatment, as do we- the owners. Shirley obviously loves the dogs in her care and they love her. She is firm but kind and treats your dog as you would treat them yourself. Whilst I am away I do not even have to think about Jasper – let alone worry. I know he is having a great time – plus Shirley sends me Jasper updates. I would recommend Holidays for Dogs any time – and frequently do.”

Staffie from Thornton

“Shirley gives excellent home from home dog boarding care to any dog that stays with her. Sometimes dogs are afraid to be away from their owners but Shirley puts them at ease and they come to love her. My dog absolutely loves her to bits and is sad when he has to come home. He gets lots of walks and plenty of company throughout the day during his ‘holiday’. I would certainly recommend this service to anyone who loves their pet enough to care for their wellbeing whilst they go on holiday.”

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Will my dog be supervised at all times?

    Yes, with only a small number of spaces we look after all the dogs.

  • What if my dog doesn’t like other dogs?

    That’s absolutely fine. We tailor care to suit each dog’s comfort level.

  • Do you accept puppies or senior dogs?

    Yes, with routines adjusted to suit their needs.

  • What should I bring?

    Food (if required), medication, and anything that helps your dog feel comfortable.

  • Can I book a trial day?

    Of course! We recommend it for first-time dogs. Please give us a call to arrange.

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Give Your Dog a Holiday to Remember Today!

Want a safe and fun environment for your dog for home from home dog boarding? Call me to discuss your requirements.