If you're searching for dog boarding in Loughton, chances are you've got a trip, a family Christmas or a busy few weeks ahead, and you want to know your dog will be happy while you're away. Choosing where your dog stays is a big decision, so here is what to look for, what to ask, and how to make the stay as smooth as possible.
Dog Boarding in Loughton: What to Look For
Not all boarding is the same. Some dogs stay in kennels, while others stay in a home environment where they can relax, play and be part of daily life. Many owners tell us they want the second option, especially for dogs who don't cope well with noise, cages or long hours alone.
At JJ's VIP Pets we're a family-run dog day care and dog boarding service based in Waltham Abbey, and we've been caring for dogs since 2008. We're an alternative to kennels, with no cages. Boarding is available 24/7, so you're never working around opening hours when you travel.
Questions to Ask Any Boarding Provider
Before you book, it's worth asking a few simple questions:
Are they licensed? You should be able to see a current licence from the local council. We hold a 5 star licence from Epping Forest District Council (LN/00004591).
Can you visit first? A good provider will welcome a visit so you can see where your dog will sleep and play. Our visits are by appointment.
What do the days look like? Ask how much time dogs spend outside, who they spend it with, and where they rest.
Is your dog a good fit? Ask about size, age and any rules. We take small to medium dogs, and male dogs need to be neutered after age one.
What are the prices and payment terms? Make sure you know the cost per night up front.
What a Stay With Us Looks Like
During the day, dogs spend time in our dog room, which used to be the family's main drawing room, and out in our two acre field. The field is fenced at 5 to 6 ft, and the climbing frames are in the top field. In the evening, boarding dogs can join the family in the Snug to cuddle up and watch TV. It's far closer to a home from home than a kennel.
Boarding costs £50 per 24 hours. We accept cash or bank transfer.
Getting Your Dog to Us From Loughton
One of the biggest worries for owners is the logistics, especially around busy travel days. We collect from Loughton, Epping, Theydon Bois and Waltham Abbey. Our regular route runs through Epping to Theydon Bois and then Loughton, so we're often in your area already.
If you're out when we call, we can often let ourselves in with a key, collect your dog and bring them safely to us. You can find more about our local service on our dog care in Loughton page, and if you're nearer Epping or Waltham Abbey, see dog care in Epping and dog care in Waltham Abbey.
Planning Ahead for Christmas
Christmas and New Year are popular times for owners to travel or host family, so it helps to plan early. A few tips:
Arrange a visit well before your travel dates, so your dog has met us and you feel confident.
Share your dates as soon as you know them so we can check availability.
Tell us about your dog's routine, likes, dislikes and anything that makes them nervous.
Keep goodbyes short and cheerful. Dogs pick up on our emotions, and a calm handover helps them settle.
Make sure you can be reached while you're away, and that someone has your travel details.
If you're not sure your dog will cope with a longer stay, you could try a day of day care first. Our day care runs from 7.30am to 9pm every day at £35 for a full day, which is a gentle way for your dog to get to know us, the other dogs and the field.
Why Local Owners Choose Us
We're rated 4.9 on Google from more than 100 reviews, and several regular clients send their dogs to day care and are picked up daily. Being family run means your dog gets to know the same faces.
Book a Visit With Jemma
The best way to decide if we're right for your dog is to come and see us. To arrange a visit or check Christmas availability, email Jemma at jemma@jjsvippets.com or call 07867 633340. We're at 2 Stable Lodge, Waltham Abbey EN9 2EP, and we'd love to meet you both.
