The Best Winter Dog Boarding and Pet Sitting Options for Your Holiday Travel

Winter Travel? Here’s How to Choose the Best Boarding or Pet Sitting for Your Dog

As winter bites here in New Zealand, many of us are jetting off to warmer shores—Europe, the Pacific Islands, or beyond. But while you're soaking up the sun, your furry pal deserves warmth, safety, and love too. So how do you make sure your dog is in the best hands while you’re away?

Let’s explore the best options and tips for leaving your dog in a boarding kennel or with a pet sitter.

🏡 In-Home Pet Sitting vs. Boarding Kennels: Which Is Best?

In-Home Pet Sitting Pros:

• Your dog stays in their familiar environment—less stress.

• Great for dogs with anxiety, medical needs, or strict routines.

• One-on-one care and more flexibility with feeding, exercise, and cuddles.

  
  

In-Home Pet Sitting Cons:

• Can be more expensive.

• You need to fully trust someone with access to your home.

• Limited social interaction if your dog is used to being around others.

  
  

Boarding Kennels Pros:

• Structured environment with staff available most of the day.

• Dogs often enjoy playtime with other pups (if they’re social).

• Many kennels offer 24/7 supervision, heating, and comfort-focused setups.

  
  

Boarding Kennels Cons:

• Can be overwhelming for dogs not used to other dogs or unfamiliar settings.

• Less individualised attention (depending on the facility).

  
  

🔍 Do Your Homework

Whether you’re booking a kennel or an in-home sitter, always research first:

• Read recent reviews online.

• Ask about staff experience and qualifications.

• Visit the facility or meet the sitter in person before you book.

• Look for signs of cleanliness, happy animals, and secure fencing.\

  
  

💉 Health Requirements

All reputable boarding facilities will require up-to-date canine vaccinations, including:

• Parvovirus

• Distemper

• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)

• Kennel Cough (Bordetella)

Make sure your vet records are current and easily accessible. Some places may ask for flea/tick treatment records too.

🍽️ Special Needs? Speak Up!

Does your dog have allergies, a sensitive tummy, or require medication?

• Provide clear written instructions for food amounts, timing, and any supplements or medications.

• Ask: Is staff qualified to administer medication if needed? Do they have current pet first aid certificates?

It’s okay to be fussy—this is your fur baby, after all.

🐕 Exercise and Social Time

Dogs thrive with structure and stimulation, even when you’re away.

Ask your facility or sitter:

• How often is my dog walked?

• Do they get off-lead playtime or socialisation (if suitable)?

• Can my dog be kept separate from others if needed?

This is especially important for high-energy breeds or older dogs with mobility issues.

📸 Daily Updates? Yes, Please.

Many quality pet sitters and kennels now offer:

• Daily or every-few-days updates

• Photos or short videos showing your dog enjoying themselves

• Pet-sit reports that include notes on food eaten, toilet habits, mood, and activities

You can often request the frequency of these updates to match your comfort level.

🕒 Drop-Off & Pick-Up Logistics

Clear communication around timing is key.

• Confirm operating hours.

• Book drop-off times early in the day so your dog can settle in.

• Plan your pick-up to avoid peak times or staff changeovers.

Some kennels offer flexible hours or even home pick-up/drop-off services for added convenience.

❄️ Winter Warmth and Comfort

While you're off to the beach in Portugal, your dog should be curled up somewhere warm, safe, and dry.

When inspecting a kennel or discussing home care:

• Are sleeping areas insulated and heated?

• Are dogs given cosy

  beds or blankets?

• How is wet weather handled during exercise times?

Keeping your dog snug through the NZ winter is just as important as keeping them active.

Final Thought: Trust Your Gut

Sometimes, the best decision is the one that simply feels right. Whether it’s a loving in-home sitter or a warm, reputable boarding facility—choose a care option where your dog will feel safe, happy, and loved.

At Lil Luka Dog Walks, we know how deeply our clients care for their dogs. If you need help finding a local pet sitter or want to book some regular dog walks to ease your pup’s winter energy, we’re always happy to help.

Travel safe—and give your dog a big cuddle from us before you go.

Written by Billy Douglas, Owner of Lil Luka Dog Walks – Proudly supporting pups across Whanganui, Auckland and beyond.