By Steffie | Doggie Faire BnB — In-Home Dog Boarding in the Quercy Region, South West France
Autumn is one of my favourite times of year for in-home dog boarding here in Montaigu-de-Quercy.. The mornings are misty, the garden is a carpet of crunchy leaves, and by late afternoon there is nothing my dogs, and my boarding guests, like better than a good rub down and a snooze on a warm, comfy sofa.
If you are planning a trip this autumn or over the festive season, here is a little of what the season looks like at my home, and how I help it feel as settled and safe as possible for your dog.
What Autumn Looks Like at Doggie Faire BnB
Garden adventures and muddy paws
Leaves are irresistible to dogs. They hunt through them, shove their noses into them and charge about as though they have never seen anything so thrilling. It is a joy to watch, and I am never short of photographs to send home.
After a good run around the garden, the towel comes out. A proper rub down, a bit of fuss and then it is straight onto the sofa or a cosy dog bed. That is the rhythm of an autumn day here.
Cosy evenings, the home-from-home way
As the evenings draw in, the house gets quiet and warm. Dogs sleep indoors, on beds and sofas, and sit with me and my own three Labradors, Sky, Hope and Dakota, just as they would at home. There are no cages and no kennels, just a calm, domestic family setting.
That is what I mean by cage-free pet sitting: a private dog sitter looking after a small number of dogs at a time, so each one gets personalised attention rather than being one of many.
Little Autumn Things I Keep an Eye On
Ticks, mud and wet coats
Ticks stay active well into the autumn here, so I check coats carefully after walks and garden time. Wet, muddy fur gets dried thoroughly, because a damp dog is rarely a comfortable one.
Mushrooms and foraging noses
The woods and fields are full of tempting smells at this time of year, and some dogs will happily eat anything they find. I keep a close eye on wandering noses and never leave guests unsupervised outdoors.
Shorter days and hunting season
With the earlier sunsets and the hunting season about, I keep outdoor time sensible and walks to times and places that suit the light and the season.
Fireworks, Noisy Nights and Nervous Dogs
Halloween, Bonfire Night on 5 November and New Year’s Eve can be unsettling for dogs who dislike sudden bangs. In a quiet family home, I can keep the evening calm: curtains drawn, the TV or radio on low, and a sofa cuddle to hand for any dog who wants one. Every dog is different, so I tell you what I notice and how your dog coped.
For more detailed preparation tips, the Dogs Trust fireworks advice is a really helpful read.
Planning Ahead for Christmas and New Year
Festive dates are filling up already. Every new guest starts with a Trial Day, so I can see how your dog gets on with me and my own dogs before any booking is confirmed. It is best arranged well before you travel.
A few things to have ready:
- Up-to-date vaccination records, including the kennel cough vaccine, given more than three days before arrival
- Flea, tick and worm treatments up to date
- Food, medication and your dog’s usual lead, harness and collar
Once your dog is booked in, you will receive regular photos and videos, so you can relax and enjoy your time away.
A Kennel Alternative That Feels Like Home
If you are looking for family-style boarding in a real home, with a loving private dog sitter and plenty of cuddles, I would love to hear from you. In-home dog boarding is not for every dog, which is why every dog begins with a Trial Day, but for those who thrive in a domestic setting, it can make all the difference.
Get in touch to check availability for autumn and the festive season, and to arrange a Trial Day.