Heading away for a weekend, a holiday or a well-deserved break?
We know leaving your dog in someone else's care can feel like a big decision, particularly if it's their first time staying away from home.
At Hound Hero, we offer something a little different from traditional boarding kennels: a warm, welcoming home where your dog can enjoy familiar comforts, daily adventures and plenty of individual attention.
Here's everything you need to know before their first overnight stay.
A home away from home
When your dog stays with Hound Hero, they're welcomed into our home as part of the family.
There are no kennel runs or rows of cages. Instead, your hound enjoys a home environment with comfortable places to sleep, a secure garden, human companionship and a small group of canine friends.
Our resident hound, Theodore, is part of the household too.
We limit the number of overnight guests so we can provide personal attention and maintain a comfortable environment for everyone.
Our aim is simple: for your dog to feel safe, cared for and happy while you're away.
Before your dog's stay
All new clients start with a free Meet & Greet.
This gives us an opportunity to learn about your dog's personality, routines, social behaviour and specific care requirements.
For dogs who haven't spent much time away from home, we may suggest a daycare visit or shorter introductory stay before a longer booking.
That way, they have an opportunity to become familiar with us and our home before their holiday begins.
What should I pack?
We provide the comforts of home, but bringing a few familiar things can help your dog settle in.
Here's our recommended packing checklist:
Food and feeding essentials
Enough of your dog's usual food for their entire stay, plus a little extra in case your plans change
Clearly labelled portions or feeding instructions
Any special treats or dietary supplements they need
Comfort and familiarity
Their usual bed or favourite blanket, if they have one
A familiar toy or comfort item
Their crate, if they use one and we've agreed to accommodate it
Everyday essentials
A secure harness, collar and lead
Any medication they require, in its original packaging
Clear medication instructions
You don't need to pack water bowls, an entire toy collection or every accessory your dog owns.
We'll make sure they have the essentials.
Arriving at Hound Hero
We'll confirm your dog's arrival arrangements before their stay.
When they arrive, we'll give them time to explore, sniff and settle into their new surroundings.
Some dogs make themselves at home immediately. Others prefer a little time to investigate before deciding which bed is best.
Both approaches are welcome!
We'll introduce your dog to their surroundings and any other dogs in our care at a pace appropriate for them.
If there's anything that usually helps your dog settle, please tell us beforehand.
What will my dog do during their stay?
Life at Hound Hero is a balance of fun, companionship and relaxation.
Depending on your dog's needs and abilities, their days may include:
Outdoor adventures and walks
Supervised play with compatible canine companions
Exploring and sniffing around the secure garden
Enrichment activities
Plenty of opportunities for a comfortable nap
Quiet time and affection with the Hound Hero team
We tailor each dog's routine to their personality, age, energy levels and care requirements.
A high-energy hound might love a day of outdoor activity, while an older or more relaxed guest may prefer shorter outings and extra time on the couch.
Mealtimes and medication
We understand that food and medication routines matter.
Please provide your dog's usual food and make sure their feeding information is up to date in Time To Pet.
We feed dogs separately to maintain a peaceful mealtime and accommodate individual dietary requirements.
If your dog needs medication, please provide clear instructions, including the medication name, dose and timing.
We're happy to discuss medical conditions, allergies and other special care requirements before their stay.
Where will my dog sleep?
Every dog has different sleeping preferences.
Some like curling up in a comfortable bed, while others prefer their familiar crate or a quiet space away from the action.
We'll discuss your dog's usual sleeping routine before their stay and aim to maintain familiar arrangements wherever practical.
Please let us know if your dog has particular nighttime habits, sleeping requirements or separation-related concerns.
We want bedtime to feel as familiar and comfortable as possible.
Will I receive photos and updates?
Of course!
We know how much you'll miss your hound while you're away.
We use Time To Pet to share photos, messages and updates so you can see how they're getting on.
You can check your messages through the app or Client Portal, including when you're travelling overseas.
That means you can enjoy your holiday while knowing your hound is in good hands.
What if my plans change?
We understand that travel doesn't always go according to plan.
If you need to adjust your dog's arrival or going-home arrangements, please contact us as soon as possible.
We'll do our best to accommodate changes, subject to availability.
For overnight stays, a 25% deposit is required to secure your booking.
Cancellations more than seven days before your stay are refunded less a $25 administration fee. Cancellations within seven days forfeit the deposit.
Going home
At the end of their stay, we'll have your hound ready for their agreed going-home time.
If you've arranged our drop off service, we'll confirm those details with you.
After an exciting stay, some dogs may be extra sleepy when they return home.
Give them time to settle back into their normal routine, enjoy some familiar comforts and catch up on their favourite sleeping spot.
Ready to book your hound's holiday?
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, we'd love to welcome your dog into our home.
Explore Hound Hero Overnight Stays
New to Hound Hero? Register for your free Meet & Greet so we can get to know your dog before their first stay.
Already part of the pack? Log in to Time To Pet to request your dates.