Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see where my pet is being housed?

Yes we pride ourselves in the high quality Dog Boarding facility we provide and are happy to show you through our premises.

What vaccination is required at Nelson Bay Kennels dog boarding?

All dogs are to be vaccinated to a C5 level no later than two weeks before boarding, a copy of the current vaccination certificate is required on arrival.

All cats are to be vaccinated to a F3 level no later than two weeks before boarding, a copy of the current vaccination certificate is required on arrival

Male entire cats over 8months of age are not accepted at our cat facility.

Something to note:

Even in the most hygienic, well ventilated, spacious kennels the possibility of a dog acquiring Canine Cough exists. Canine Cough can be acquired from any dog, whether it be your neighbours, a dog in the park or your best friends. It can even be acquired while at the vets. The vaccination does not cover every strand of kennel cough.

Similarly, even in the most hygienic, well ventilated, spacious kennels the possibility of a cat acquiring Cat flu exists. Cat Flu can be acquired from any cat, whether it be your neighbours, a cat wandering into your yard or your best friends. It can even be acquired while at the vets. The vaccination does not cover every strand of cat flu.

Does my pet need to be flea treated?

Yes, at both our dog boarding, and cat boarding facilities, your pet needs to be flea, and tick, treated prior to boarding. It is recommended your dog also has a tick collar during peak tick season.

What are your hours of operation?

Our Dog Boarding facilities are open from 8:00am to 11:00 am, and 3:00pm to 6:00pm every day.

Are you open public holidays?

Nelson Bay Kennels dog boarding facilities are open every day except for Christmas day, we operate to care for the animals only on this day – we don’t accept arrivals or departures on Christmas day.

Can we arrange for collection or drop off outside of normal trading hours?

Dog Boarding pickup and drop off can be arranged outside normal business hours, however, this needs to be arranged with us well in advance and is subject to availability (and may be subject to additional fees).

Will my dog miss me?

Think of your dog going on a holiday just as you are. It is very rare for a dog to pine and be miserable. Once you are out of sight the dog is immediately taken up by exciting new sights, smells and sounds. It is important when you drop your dog off to keep light and happy. Dogs are a perfect mirror of your emotional state, and if you are upset, they will be upset. So cry on the way home in the car! There are lots of comings and goings, interaction and stimulation throughout the day. If you are worried you are welcome to give us a call or email us for a progress report. It may also a good idea to do a trial stay prior to a long trip if your dog has never been boarded before.

My dog has his own pillow or bed can I bring this along?

We have trampoline beds for all rooms but feel welcome to bring your dog’s special bed, pillow or toy if you wish. We ask you to limit this to one piece of bedding and one toy – clean and clearly labeled. We believe that having something familiar from home helps the dog settle in.

How long will my dog get for playtime in your large grassed areas?

We believe your dog needs lots of fresh air every day. Dogs are only closed in after dinner at night and are out in the fresh air for the rest of the day. They have access to their rooms through-out the day, and will enjoy 2-3 one on one play times for aproximately 15-20 minutes each playtime with our qualified carers every day. Inspect our yards and you will see our large areas provide plenty of room to run play with our loving carers.

What happens if my dog gets sick when I am away?

We will firstly notify you to discuss the symptoms of your pet’s ailment. If you are un-contactable we will contact your nominated vet or a local vet to check your dog for you. If your vet is local can arrange transport to that vet should the illness prove serious. We have access to a local veterinarian who provides an excellent service