If you offer overnight stays for customers in your own home then it’s termed ‘home dog boarding’. The official definition of home dog boarding is ‘providing housing to other people’s dogs at your home for day and overnight stays’. The dog must be staying inside your house, and not in an outside kennel.
Do I need a license for home dog boarding?
The need for a license to offer home dog boarding services varies depending on your location, as regulations can differ between countries, states, and even local municipalities. In many places, especially where animal welfare is a concern, obtaining a license to provide home dog boarding is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals under your care.
What are the rules for home dog boarding in the UK?
According to
Government guidelines, all dog home boarding activities need a license if they’re carried out as a commercial business. So, if you’re getting paid to look after dogs in your own home, then you’ll need a license, and this includes receiving a commission or other fee.
There are various rules about boarding a dog in your home, such as:
- They can’t sleep in a conservatory, garage, loft or cellar.
- They can’t sleep in a child’s room.
- There must be adequate staffing levels.
- The environment must be safe and well-maintained.
- All food provided for dogs must be suitable for their diet.
- Training and play activities must be provided as well as checking on behaviour.
Most of the rules are common sense and are aimed at providing a high level of health, safety and care for the animals.
What are the penalties if I don’t have a license?
If you provide or arrange boarding for cats or dogs in your home without a license, or fail to follow the conditions of the license, you may be fined an unlimited amount or imprisoned for up to six months.
Where can I get a license for home dog boarding in the UK?
You should apply to your local council for a home dog boarding license. They will then inspect your home before granting a license, to ensure it is suitable for animals. The government
provides guidance on how to do this and what conditions you should meet in order to receive a license.
Do I need insurance for home boarding dogs?
If you already provide pet sitting or dog walking services then you should check whether your insurance covers home boarding. If it doesn’t then you should consider a specialist home boarding policy.
Specialist home boarding policies cover various risks including:
- Public liability.
- Lost pets, pet illness or death.
- Equipment damage.
- Accidental damage or injuries.
It’s worth shopping around for this cover but a couple of providers who offer it include
British Pet Insurance and
PetPlan Sanctuary.
Get Set Grow
Free news and advice for dog walkers, cat sitters and other pet business owners.
Small original articles which only take a minute to read.
Subscribe for
free and start growing your business today.
Get Set, Grow!
📣 Do you need to attract more customers for your pet business? Join Pet Sitter Club for access to tons of resources specifically for pet businesses like yours, including: