How Much Does It Cost to Kennel a Dog for a Week?
Whether you're heading out on vacation or dealing with a temporary situation, finding appropriate care for your pet is a priority. Dog boarding facilities, also known as kennels or pet hotels, provide professional care for dogs when their owners are away. Understanding the average weekly cost of boarding your dog can help plan both your budget and your dog's comfort.
Understanding Dog Boarding Options
Dog boarding facilities vary widely in offerings and prices. Here's a breakdown of the main options:
- Standard Kennels: Offer basic care like feeding, exercise, and monitoring.
- Veterinary Boarding: Ideal for dogs with medical needs, providing professional oversight.
- Luxury Pet Hotels: Premium care with features such as private suites, TVs, webcams, and play sessions.
- Overnight Doggy Daycare: Combines daycare and overnight stays with more individual attention.
- In-home Pet Sitters: Either your dog stays at the sitter’s home or the sitter stays in your home.
Factors That Influence Kenneling Costs
Several elements affect how much you'll pay for a week of dog boarding:
- Location: Urban centers like New York or Los Angeles typically charge more than rural areas.
- Duration: Weekly or long-term stays often come with package discounts.
- Size and Breed: Large or high-maintenance breeds may incur additional charges.
- Facility Type: Basic kennels cost less than pet hotels or veterinary clinics.
- Extra Services: Grooming, training, and medical care increase the price significantly.
Average Weekly Boarding Costs
Pricing varies, but here’s a general idea based on averages:
- Standard Kennel: $25–$55 per night → $175–$385 per week
- Veterinary Boarding: $30–$60 per night → $210–$420 per week
- Doggy Daycare with Overnight: $55–$80 per night → $385–$560 per week
- In-home Pet Sitting: $25–$75 per night → $175–$525 per week
- Luxury Boarding Suites: $75–$150 per night → $525–$1,050 per week
Cost Examples from Real Facilities
Example rate structures may include:
- Standard daycare (full day): $22–$33 per day with multipack discounts
- Boarding suites: $44–$108 per night; presidential suites even more
- Kennel runs: Vary from $40 to $93, depending on the number of dogs
Additional Fees to Expect
- Puppy surcharge: $5–$10 per night
- Medical care/medication: $10–$20 daily
- Transportation (pick-up/drop-off): $10–$20 per trip
- Tips for caregivers: Typically 10–20% of total fee
Tips to Save on Boarding Costs
- Book in advance for better rates and availability
- Look for deals, loyalty programs, military or multi-pet discounts
- Compare services across multiple providers in your area
- Avoid peak seasons when rates and demand are higher
How to Choose the Right Boarding Facility
To ensure your pet is safe and happy:
- Visit beforehand to inspect cleanliness and staff interaction
- Check health protocols, including vaccination requirements
- Read online reviews and ask for veterinarian recommendations
- Confirm daily routines for feeding, exercise, and socialization
- Discuss your dog’s medical or behavioral needs in advance
Preparing Your Dog for Boarding
- Ensure vaccines are up-to-date
- Communicate dietary and medication instructions clearly
- Bring familiar items like toys or bedding
- Maintain regular feeding routines leading up to boarding
- Verify emergency contact procedures with the facility
While costs can add up quickly, peace of mind and professional care for your dog are invaluable. By understanding the options and planning ahead, pet owners can find suitable accommodations that balance quality of care with affordability.
