Helpful Information
Frequently Asked Questions
A few helpful answers about daycare, boarding, onboarding, walks, payments and what to expect when your dog joins Heath & Hounds.
What size dogs do you care for?
At Heath & Hounds, we primarily care for small to medium-sized dogs who are suited to a calm home-from-home daycare or boarding environment.
What are your opening hours?
Our standard care hours are 8am–5pm. Additional time before or after these hours may be available by agreement and is charged at £5 per additional 30 minutes.
Do dogs need to be vaccinated?
Yes. Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations and general medical care before joining us. Owners may be asked to provide vaccination and health information during onboarding.
Do owners provide food?
Yes. Owners provide their dog’s own food so we can keep their normal diet, routine and feeding instructions consistent during their stay.
Will my dog be walked?
Yes. Dogs receive a minimum one-hour walk per day, unless otherwise agreed based on age, health, weather conditions or individual care needs.
Can my dog be walked off-lead?
Off-lead walking is not automatic. It will depend on the information provided in the dog profile form, owner permission, recall, behaviour, location and whether we feel it is safe and appropriate.
Do you accept puppies?
Puppies may be considered, but this would need to be discussed carefully. Suitability depends on the puppy’s age, vaccinations, behaviour, confidence, routine and whether our home environment is the right fit for them.
Do you accept unneutered dogs?
No, we do not accept unneutered dogs.
Is there a meet or taster session?
Yes. In fact, we recommend a meet or short taster session before full daycare or boarding begins. This helps your dog become familiar with us and gives everyone confidence that Heath & Hounds is the right fit.
What happens after I submit an enquiry?
Once you submit an enquiry, we aim to respond within 24 hours. We’ll discuss your dog’s needs, availability and next steps, then guide you through the onboarding process if we feel we may be a suitable fit.
Will I receive updates?
Yes. We can provide updates through WhatsApp or social media, depending on your preference. As Heath & Hounds grows, we also plan for owners to have access to updates through their dog’s owner profile.
Do you offer monthly invoicing?
Full payment is required before a booking is confirmed. For regular daycare clients or longer stays, monthly invoicing may be available by agreement. Invoices will be sent before your dog’s stay or care period begins.
What happens if I’m late collecting my dog?
We understand that delays can happen. If you are running late, please let us know as soon as possible.
Our standard hours are advertised because we plan our day and family routine around agreed drop-off and collection times. Additional time is charged at £5 per extra 30 minutes outside agreed hours.
Small delays of a few minutes can happen, but repeated or extended lateness may affect future bookings.
What should I bring for my dog?
Owners should bring their dog’s food, any medication, clear feeding instructions and anything that helps them feel settled, such as a familiar blanket or comfort item.
Do you provide bowls, beds and toys?
Yes. We have bowls, toys, leads, beds and treats available. Owners are still welcome to bring familiar items from home if this helps their dog settle.
Do you give medication?
Medication may be given if agreed in advance and clearly explained during onboarding. Owners must provide full instructions and ensure medication is supplied in its original packaging where possible.
What happens in an emergency?
If your dog becomes unwell or injured while in our care, we will contact you or your emergency contact as soon as possible. Where urgent care is needed, we may contact your vet or the nearest suitable veterinary practice.
Are dogs assessed before joining?
Yes. Every dog must complete onboarding and be suitable for our home-from-home environment. This helps us keep all dogs comfortable, safe and well cared for.
Do you take all breeds?
We focus on small to medium-sized dogs and suitability is assessed individually. Temperament, behaviour, routine, health and compatibility with our home environment are all considered.
Do you offer kennel-style boarding?
No. Heath & Hounds is a home-from-home setting, not a kennel-style environment. Dogs are welcomed into a calm family home with routine, comfort and individual care.
Can I view your full policies?
Yes. Our full daycare, boarding and owner agreement policies are provided during onboarding and are available on request.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to help
Tell us a little about your dog and what you’re looking for, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.