Is It Cheaper to Find Dog Boarding Yourself? Breaking Down the True Costs
If you’re planning a holiday or have work commitments coming up, sorting out care for your dog is high on the list. Many people in Cardiff, Swansea, and nearby Pontcanna wonder if they’ll save money by finding dog boarding themselves. Let’s find out what goes into these costs and see if “doing it yourself” really gives you the best deal – or if it’s just more faff for little return.
Comparing Costs: Using a Service vs Going Solo
On the face of it, searching for a dog boarder yourself might seem cheaper than using a well-known service or going to a boarding kennel. If you find someone local or put the word out on social media, you might get offers for less than the big kennels in Cardiff. But, as with most things, the price tag doesn’t always tell the whole story.
| Option | Average Daily Cost | Extras Included? |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Boarding Kennel (Cardiff) | £28–£40 | Feeding, exercise, insurance, updates |
| Trusted Local Boarder (booked yourself) | £15–£25 | Varies: often basic care, not always insured |
| Dog Lover from Social Media | £10–£20 | Usually just walks and meals |
It’s tempting to choose the lowest price. But professional kennel costs usually include lots of extras, like fully insured staff, secure facilities, and sometimes even daily photo updates.
What’s Actually Included (And What’s Not)?
Doing it yourself often means you’ll need to ask what’s included. At licensed boarding kennels in places like Pontcanna or Cardiff Bay, a typical day might have:
- Three walks a day (20–30 minutes each)
- A suite or kennel at least 1.5m x 2m per dog
- Feeding as per your instructions
- Photo/video updates to your phone
- Trained, insured staff (usually 1 carer for every 5 dogs)
If you book someone privately, you’ll want to check: Will they stick to your dog’s routine? Do they have pet insurance? What happens if your dog gets sick?
The Hidden Costs Most People Miss
Bargain rates from local pet lovers can sometimes cost you more in the end. Here’s what could catch you out:
- No insurance: If your dog is hurt or goes missing, you could be out of pocket. Kennels and many platforms cover this as standard.
- No backup plan: What if the boarder cancels?
- Extra charges: Some individuals might charge for special diets, long walks, or late pickups.
- Travel costs: If the home boarder lives far out, getting there and back adds up.
While this applies everywhere, it’s especially important in busy cities like Cardiff and Swansea, where transport isn’t always quick or cheap.
Peace of Mind: Is Paying a Bit More Worth It?
Sometimes, it’s not just about the money. Trusted kennels and agencies in South Wales offer something you may not get if you go it alone: peace of mind. Proper paperwork, clear rules, and emergency contacts make life simpler if things go pear-shaped. Plus, daily routines are carefully kept, so your dog keeps feeling at home.
To sum up, finding dog boarding yourself in Cardiff, Swansea, or Pontcanna can be cheaper upfront – but always weigh the safety, reliability, and hidden extras. Sometimes, that extra tenner a day is worth it for a happy, healthy dog and a stress-free holiday.
