If you’re going away over Christmas or New Year, now is the time to sort your dog’s boarding. The festive fortnight is the busiest time of year for kennels across Stafford and Staffordshire, and the best dates tend to go weeks in advance. Here’s what to think about before you book your dog in with us at Oaklands.
Book early – Christmas dates go fast
We’re a small, family-run boarding kennels in Hopton, just outside Stafford, so we have a limited number of kennels – and that’s deliberate. It means every dog gets proper time and attention. The flip side is that Christmas and New Year fill up quickly, often with regulars who book a year ahead. If you know your dates, check availability and book online as soon as you can.
A 50% deposit secures your dates, and any cancellation needs 14 days’ notice – worth bearing in mind if your plans are still changing.
Check your dog’s vaccinations now, not the week before
All dogs staying with us need to be fully vaccinated, including kennel cough, and their vaccination record needs to come with them. Kennel cough is the one that catches people out: it’s given separately from the annual booster, and some vets like it done a couple of weeks before a stay. Have a look at your dog’s card today, and if anything is due, get it booked with your vet before the December rush.
If your vet has advised against the kennel cough vaccine for health reasons, let us know when you book – we may be able to accept your dog with a vet’s note.
Tell us about your dog’s routine
The more we know, the easier it is for your dog to settle. When you drop off we’ll ask about feeding, habits, likes and dislikes – and any medication, which we give at no extra cost as long as it comes with clear instructions. If your dog has a special diet or medical needs, please mention it before arrival so we’re fully ready for them.
Pack a little piece of home
We supply all bedding (we use Vet Bed – a warm, non-allergenic fleece) and all food and treats are included in the price. But a small blanket, an old jumper that smells of home or a favourite toy can really help a dog settle in, especially on their first stay. Just keep it to something you won’t mind if it gets well loved.
Warm kennels for winter stays
Winter is when owners worry most about their dogs being cold. Our kennels are heated, every stay includes two exercise sessions a day, and our team are trained in canine first aid with a vet on call. Plenty of owners also tell us they love the photo updates while they’re away – there’s nothing better than seeing your dog happily curled up while you’re at the in-laws’.
Drop-off and collection over the holidays
Our normal drop-off is in the afternoon and collection is in the morning. Morning drop-offs and afternoon collections can be arranged if you ask when booking (they’re charged as an extra half day). If you need to drop off or collect around Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day, mention it when you book and we’ll confirm what’s possible.
Need a groom before the big day?
If your dog is going to be in the family photos, December is a popular month in our grooming salon too. Book a bath, cut and blow-dry at the same time as their stay and they’ll come home looking and smelling their best.
Ready to book?
Oaklands has been looking after dogs from across Stafford and the surrounding villages since 2013, and every guest is treated as one of our own. Check Christmas availability online, or get in touch if you have any questions – we’re always happy to help.
