Willowhound Home-Stays

Where your dog becomes part of our family while you enjoy your holiday.

Thoughtful in-home care for dogs who need more than boarding

Willowhound Home Stays offer a calm, considered alternative to traditional boarding and kennels.

Your dog stays in my home, not a facility. They are cared for as an individual, with structure, predictability, and an experienced eye on both their emotional and physical wellbeing. This is not a high-volume service. I take on a limited number of dogs at a time, and in some cases only one booking, so that each dog receives genuine attention and care.

This service is ideal for dogs who are sensitive, easily overwhelmed, anxious, or simply do better in a quieter, more familiar environment. Greyhounds & Rescues, in particular, tend to thrive with this style of care.

While you unwind, your dog will be relaxing, exploring, learning, and living their best life with us.

A Home Away From Home

Your dog stays inside our home as part of the Willowhound family.

No kennels.

No crowded play groups.

No chaos.

A home environment, not a rotation system

Home Stays are built around routine, not confinement.

Your dog becomes part of a calm daily rhythm that includes rest, gentle movement, enrichment, and observation. I pay close attention to how your dog is coping, adjusting the day as needed rather than pushing them to fit a rigid schedule.

This approach supports:

emotional regulation and nervous system balance
continuity of routine while you’re away
dogs who struggle with busy, unpredictable environments

Experienced, intentional care

As a qualified dog trainer with a strong focus on behaviour, learning, and stress responses, I don’t just “watch” dogs — I read them.

I notice subtle changes in body language, stress levels, and comfort, and respond accordingly. This means your dog is supported proactively, not reactively, while you’re away.

Regular updates are provided so you can feel confident knowing how your dog is settling in.

A Gentle Structured Rhythm

Your dog's day includes a mix of adventure outings, enrichment, quiet rest,

training-based activities and calm companionship.

Never rushed. Never overstimulated.

Always tailored to who they are.

Rates

$90 per night
$110 per night on public holidays

Booking and payment

A 20% deposit is required to secure your Home Stay dates
The remaining balance is payable after the stay, in line with Willowhound terms and conditions

Meet and greet

A meet and greet is required for all new Home Stay bookings. This allows us to ensure your dog is comfortable in the environment and that their needs can be fully supported before confirming care.

Availability

Home Stay places are intentionally limited and often book out well in advance, particularly during holiday periods. Early enquiries are strongly recommended.

Long-Term Home Stay Packages

For dogs staying three weeks or longer, Willowhound offers long-term home stay packages designed to support stability, routine, and overall wellbeing during extended absences.

All packages apply to consecutive stays only.