Happiness is a warm puppy.

Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, this page includes everything you need to know to get your dog ready for their Hounds On Holiday experience - what to pack, when to expect us and how to keep your dog’s info up to date. It also outlines booking expectations, important reminders, cancellation terms and includes downloadable forms to complete before drop-off.

• Food (measured and labelled)
• Food and water bowls
• Leash
• Poop bags
• Bed or blanket
• Crate (if required)
• Medications (labelled with instructions)
• A couple of favourite toys (optional but comforting) 
• A checklist of items included (optional but appreciated) 

Familiar belongings help dogs settle more quickly in their host’s home. We’ll return everything as it was sent.

• Guelph area clients: Pick-up and drop-off will be arranged between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at your home. Please ensure someone is available during this timeframe.
• Out-of-town clients: Pick-up and drop-off will also take place within the 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. time frame. You will be assigned a time slot that aligns with our host and transport schedule..

A 50% deposit of the total amount is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance is due at the time your dog begins their stay. Bookings are only confirmed once approved and a deposit has been received. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable, as they allow us to match your dog with the most suitable host family and reserve their spot. For full details, see our Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions.

• You’ll receive an arrival photo of your dog with the approved host family. 
• You’ll also receive updates and photos by email throughout their stay for peace of mind.
   

We follow your dog’s Pet Schedule closely to maintain routines and reduce stress - from sleeping arrangements to feeding times and walks.

• All bookings, updates and communication must go directly through Hounds On Holiday - not through host families. This centralized approach ensures safety, consistency and accountability throughout your dog’s stay.
• Host families are carefully vetted, thoughtfully matched with each dog and expected to follow consistent care policies. Their sole focus is on providing loving, personalized care - while we manage scheduling, payments and logistics.
• Please do not make private arrangements with hosts or expect them to handle availability or booking questions. This keeps everyone on the same page and protects your dog’s routine.
• If there are any changes to your dog’s routine, care needs or medications, please let us know in advance. We’ll send you your most recent Pet Schedule to review and update before your dog’s stay.
• Keeping your dog’s information up to date ensures we can maintain their routine and provide the best possible experience for them - and for you.