Small-scale, home-from-home dog care 

Small-scale, home-from-home dog care 

I offer small-scale, home-from-home daycare and boarding in Douglas, with a maximum of 3 guest dogs at any one time.

I deliberately keep numbers low so I can give each dog plenty of attention and supervision, and let them settle into the house at their own pace.

A little about me 

I've been around dogs and other animals for over 20 years. I grew up in the Wicklow countryside in an old farmhouse surrounded by animals, so having animals around has always been a normal part of life for me.

Over the years I've cared for rescue pets and dogs with very different personalities and behavioural needs, and I've also volunteered with animalwelfare.

I enjoy getting to know each dog and their personality. Some settle straight in, while others need a little more time to get comfortable.

Our home 

We're a dog-loving family with our own golden retriever, Méabh.

Méabh is friendly, playful and always delighted to have a doggy friend staying. Our home tends to suit dogs who are happy around children and other friendly dogs.

We also have two elderly cats who spend most of their time upstairs behind a stairgate, so guest dogs don't need to be completely comfortable around cats. We don't accept dogs who would actively try to chase or harm a cat, but dogs who are simply curious or unsure around cats are fine.

We have a fully fenced back garden and dogs staying with us have access to both the garden and the house. They can relax, play, snooze and generally make themselves at home rather than being kept separately from us.

I'm a full-time mum and pet minder, so dogs staying with us are rarely left alone for more than around an hour.

Daycare & boarding 

Because I only take a very small number of dogs at a time, l, I can carefully consider which dogs stay together.

I keep routines as close as possible to what your dog is used to at home. I ask you to bring their usual food so they can stay with their normal diet while they're here. You're also very welcome to bring their bed, blanket or favourite things to help them settle.

For longer stays, I can arrange a trial day first so your dog can get used to us and the house.

Before a first booking, we'll chat about your dog's personality, routine and how they are around other dogs, children and cats. Anything else you'd like me to know is always welcome too.

Walks, fun & enrichment 

Dogs staying with us get walks, garden time, sniffing, play and plenty of downtime. What we do depends on the dog, their age and how much energy they have.

Depending on the dog, there might also be sniff safaris, enrichment activities, homemade frozen treats, licky plates or the occasional doggy pool day!

Before your dog's first stay 

To keep things safe and comfortable for everyone, guest dogs need to be:

• Fully vaccinated and up to date with required vaccinations
• Microchipped
• Up to date with flea and worming treatment
• Comfortable around other dogs
• Comfortable in a family home
• Suitable for a home with children
• Able to settle happily downstairs in their own bed at night without becoming anxious or barking, as dogs aren't allowed upstairs.
• For boarding, I don't accept dogs who are currently in season, and male dogs must be neutered.

A meet & greet is required before the first booking so we can make sure my home is the right fit for your dog.

Most importantly 

I know leaving your dog with someone else can feel like a big decision.

I want you to know that while you're away, your dog is safe, relaxed and well looked after.

If your dog would be happier in a small, calm family home, I'd love to hear from you.