Choosing the Right Dog Boarding Option: Why Private, Personalized Care May Be the Best Fit
When life takes you away from home, finding the right care for your dog is more than just logistics, it’s about comfort, trust, and safety. With so many boarding options available in the community, it’s important to understand the differences so you can choose what works best for you and your dog’s unique needs.
Traditional Boarding Facilities
Most large-scale boarding facilities offer structured environments, kennel runs, and scheduled group play. While this can work for some dogs, the environment may feel overwhelming or overstimulating for others, especially dogs who are older, shy, reactive, or have special needs.
Common concerns include:
High noise levels
Exposure to illness (kennel cough, etc.)
Limited one-on-one time
Disruption in routine or feeding
Anxiety from unfamiliar surroundings
Why Dogs On The Run May Be a Better Fit
Dogs On The Run offers a private, professional alternative to traditional boarding. Here's what sets our option apart:
Personalized & Professional
Your dog stays in the home of a trusted DOTR professional, not a crowded facility. Many of our professionals are experienced pet care providers, certified in first aid, and familiar with behavioral and health-related needs.
A Home Away from Home
One-on-one attention or small group settings
Custom routines matched to your dog’s feeding, walking, and sleeping habits
Minimal stress from loud or chaotic environments
Flexible care for dogs with anxiety, medical needs, or special behaviors
Private yard or safe indoor/outdoor access depending on the home
We replicate your routine as closely as possible—because structure, familiarity, and gentle transitions matter.
Health and Behavior Benefits
In-home boarding helps:
Reduce exposure to illness
Minimize behavior setbacks (like crate regression or reactivity)
Support ongoing training or routines
Increase emotional safety for dogs who don’t do well in kennels
Trust Starts With a Meet & Greet
We always recommend a consultation with the boarding professional (in their home) before your trip. Several clients will even do day care leading up to the boarding reservation. This helps ensure the home environment is a good match, and gives your dog the chance to settle in before you’re away.
Your dog deserves more than just a place to stay, they deserve to feel safe, comfortable, and cared for while you're away.
Dogs On The Run provides a boutique-style alternative to traditional boarding, giving your pet the individualized attention they deserve.
📩 Interested in exploring boarding options?
Reach out to your DOTR concierge today. We’ll help you find the perfect fit.
