Packing list: what your dog should bring to the dog hotel

In short: Your dog needs their own food (ideally a little extra), something that smells of home, the favourite toy, the vaccination record and any medication with a dosage plan. The rest – beds, bowls, towels and plenty of cuddles – is ready and waiting at the hotel.

Packing for a dog is thankfully easier than packing for a weekend with small children. But a few things make the stay noticeably better, and a couple of things are simply required. Here is the list we send to all our guests – and the reasoning behind every item.

What should go in the bag

• Your dog's own food – ideally a little extra. A dog's stomach does not like surprises. With their usual food in their usual amounts, you avoid upset tummies. Pack an extra day or two, in case the journey home is delayed.
• A blanket, bed or piece of clothing that smells of home. Familiar smells are the very best sleep aid for a dog in a new place. A worn jumper works perfectly.
• The favourite toy. One is enough – preferably the slightly worn and well-loved one. It works both as comfort and as an icebreaker while we get to know each other.
• Treats your dog tolerates. We have treats here too, but if your dog has a sensitive stomach or allergies, their own treats are safest.
• Vaccination record. We need to see this at check-in – it protects all our guests. Remember that the kennel cough vaccine should be given at least two weeks before the stay. See our requirements here.
• Medication with a clear dosage plan. Write down what, how much and when – ideally taped to the container. We follow the plan to the letter.
• Collar or harness with ID tag. A good fit matters most; an extra lead clip never hurts.
• Contact details. Your number and email, plus a backup person we can reach if you are travelling out of coverage.

What you can safely leave at home

• Food and water bowls – we have clean bowls for everyone.
• The entire toy box – one favourite goes a long way. Too many toys in a new place can actually stress more than they comfort.
• Big bags of food for short stays – portion bags labelled by day are easier for everyone.
• Expensive belongings – dogs on holiday can be rough on their possessions, so leave the heirlooms at home.

Our best packing tip

Label everything with your dog's name – with a waterproof marker or a little tag. With up to 12 guests staying with us, we naturally keep track of everyone's things, but labelling makes drop-off and pick-up quicker and safer for all tails involved.

Is it your dog's first time at a dog hotel? Then we warmly recommend our guide for first-time visits – it makes that first goodbye much easier.

Bag all packed? Get in touch – we'll give your dog a warm welcome.