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boarding & daycare

animal care by animal people

more info...
animal care by animal people the kennels, the catteries & the kennatteries the lounge the aviary smanimals... our other creatures love... and other stuff too weight loss or gain while boarding prices & admission requirements gotta book early!
the kennels, the
 catteries & the
  kennatteries
love...
and other stuff too
 the
aviary
smanimals... our
 other creatures
 
 

Dog Boarding. Doggy Daycare. Cat Boarding. Boarding for Birds and Other Animals.
A Pet Hotel.

Love. Attention. Wholesome animal care for your dogs and cats and other animals, the way nature intended. (Yes, it's true, we have a special relationship with Nature dkc animal care.) Quality food and special diets. Roomy enclosures with neighbours all around (it is a pet hotel, after all!). Large and oft-used exercise yards. Exhaustively trained staff. A lot of staff experience. Cuddles. (What else is a pet hotel for?!) Where spare time is your pet's time. Clean, clean, cleanliness! Daily grooming and check-ups. Nail-clipping whenever Scruffy gets a little too scratchy. A pet boarding facility with snuggly dog beds and cozy snug-rugs. Cat boarding with multi-story cat enclosures. Scratch posts and toys. Indoor/Outdoor enclosures with a/c. A quaint European feel aaaalllll over. Detailed and carefully-followed daily care procedures. Medication and other special care. 24-hour emergency services. Truly transparent and accessible management. Our own veterinary clinic, as well as long and strong relationships with all other vets in the UAE. The right spaces and the right knowledge for birds, for rabbits and for all your other creatures too (remember... it's a pet hotel! dkc pet care). Buddy-Boarding for dogs or for cats from the same family. Buddy-Boarding for dogs and for cats from different families. And even buddy-boarding for dogs and cats together if from the same family. 20% buddy-boarding discounts. Socializing for dogs who want to mix it up with new friends. Discounts for frequent boarders. 10% boarding and relocations discounts for all Emirates Group members for pet boarding and doggy daycare. Clean laundry when you go home. A bath for dogs before departure. Departing reports. Collection & Delivery, nationwide. A place you can come to even when you don't NEED to. A place where your pooch and putty tat and evwywun else will pounce on the possibility of another visit... AND...

Will my cat stay with other cats?
Answer
<h5>Will my cat stay with other cats?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_37.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Well, yes and no.</p> <p>Your cat will stay in a separate and secure enclosure, so there won't be any other cats in there with him. But because it's a cattery, we obviously have a lot of cats staying in a lot of enclosures, all of which are next to each other. So, although your cat <em>will</em> be in his own enclosure, there will indeed still be lots of other cats around.</p> <p>This said, if you have more than one cat and want them to be in the same enclosure together, then perfect! (Did you know that there's a <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/prices-admission-requirements" target="_blank">20% discount for buddy-boarding</a>?) Aaaaaannnnd... if you'd like to explore the possibility of socialising your cat with other cats from a different family (yes, you read that right!), then just talk to us about this ~ we have a <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/the-kennels-the-catteries-the-kennatteries" target="_blank">cat jungle</a> and we <a href="/docs/A_Fair_Share.pdf" target="_blank">Buddy-Board cats</a> too, in the right circumstance and with your permission/request.</p></div>
Will my cat stay with other cats?
Well, yes and no. Your cat will...
Do I have to provide my own pet food? What type of food do you provide?
Answer
<h5>Do I have to provide my own pet food? What type of food do you provide?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_43.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>No you don't. We provide everything.</p> <p>We rely primarily on dry Royal Canin and Pedigree wet... and also chicken, tuna and rice when needed or specifically wanted.</p> <p>Of course, if you have a special diet (your own concoction or a veterinary prescription) we can do that too... although for these there <em>might</em> be additional charges.</p> <p>To learn more, take a look here: <span class="span_link cursorpointer" data-href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/love-and-other-stuff-too#Special-Diets">Love... and other stuff too/Special Diets</span>.</p></div>
Do I have to provide my own pet food? What type of food do you provide?
No you don't. We provide everything. We rely primarily on dry Royal...
Does my bird need to be microchipped?
Answer

Microchipping is a great way to identify and register your bird in case he ever flies off into th

<h5>Does my bird need to be microchipped?</h5><p>Microchipping is a great way to identify and register your bird in case he ever flies off into the unknown. A microchip is also a permanent, more reliable method of identifying your bird than feet-rings which can wear out or become damaged and can even break and fall off entirely.</p> <p>Microchips for birds are smaller than those for cats and dogs but nevertheless sometimes birds require a light sedation to have them placed. Not something to worry about, though.  <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png" height="15" width="15"></p> <p>Do be very aware that all birds will always need a microchip, and possibly other forms of identification, if they ever need to travel abroad.</p>
I'm a new dog/cat owner! Help!
Answer
<h5>I'm a new dog/cat owner! Help! </h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_0.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Help indeed!</p> <p>Download <a href="/docs/New_Dog_and_Cat_Owners_-_The_Beginnings_of_WISDOM!.pdf" target="_blank">this document</a> ~ it might help you get started.</p></div>
I'm a new dog/cat owner! Help!
Help indeed! Download this...
Should I be worried if my dog or cat has lost or gained weight during their boarding stay?
Answer
<h5>Should I be worried if my dog or cat has lost or gained weight during their boarding stay?</h5> <p>No and yes, depending.</p> <p>A little bit of weight gain or loss is very common. It doesn't happen to all pets during every stay in a boarding facility, but it does happen. Pet owners, understandably, often immediately feel that this must mean their pet has not been taken care of properly, but in fact it is more important to look at the entire context and the extent of the loss or gain.</p> <p>Commonly, pets staying in a boarding facility are not eating exactly as they do at home. They may or may not be eating exactly the same food (depending on the arrangements you've made with the kennel or cattery), and even if they are, they may not be eating exactly the same amounts because, despite every effort to get it just right, human beings differ and the precise amounts they provide may be a little different than you do when your pet is at home. So, all this small change can lead to weight gain or loss, in and of itself.</p> <p>More important and relevant than this, however, is that pets are generally much more active in a boarding facility than they are at home. Now <em>wait</em>! We're <em>not</em> saying that you aren't taking good care of your pet by not giving him or her lots of activity. No, not at all. It's just that in a boarding facility, especially one that has a good number of staff and lots of other animals around, the whole environment is very stimulating and there is a lot of exercise for dogs and lots of other general interest for both dogs and cats. And this keeps them more active and generally more stimulated, even if they're in their enclosures. And this, in turn, often leads to a bit of weight loss.</p> <p>And one more thing: In many cases, a little bit of weight loss for dogs and cats is a good thing and although we have many customers who do worry about this, we also have a great many who are pleased to see that their pet has lost a little weght in our care because, in fact, they came in to us a little overweight.</p> <p>But of course, everyone has a different perception of this, and if the weight of your pet is not medically bad, one way or the other, then we do try to maintain the weight your pet comes in with.</p> <p>This all said, too much weight gain or loss IS a problem and if you feel there has been too much either way, we truly hope you'll talk to us about this. We monitor this aspect of your pet's health very closely, with a weight check when they first arrive for boarding and then regular checking every week, or more often if we perceive a potential problem. And if there is a problem, we always let you know about it while you're away and take action when required by adjusting feeding or even consulting your vet.</p> <p>If you're interested in more insight about this important subject, take a look at our page, "<a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/weight-loss-or-gain-while-boarding" target="_blank">Weight Loss or Gain While Boarding</a>".</p>
Will my bird have time outside her cage and some interaction with your handlers? What if she's staying in one of your offices?
Answer
<h5>Will my bird have time outside her cage and some interaction with your handlers? What if she's staying in one of your offices?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_100.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Yes!</p> <p>Actually, this is about larger birds, of course, because tiny little birds really do need to stay in their cages. BUT both large and small birds sometimes spend time in our offices with staff and if you ask us about this, we can usually arrange it so that they are in the offices all the time or often.</p> <p>As for large birds (cockatoos, macaws, African greys), if they tend to be very noisy (talkative?) then we need to be cautious in our promises to you because we also have to serve our other customers on the phone and in person, as you know, so a really "talkative" bird can make all that pretty difficult. But no matter what kind of squawker your bird is, all larger birds in our care get a lot of time out of their cages and with our handlers. We love birds! And we have a lovely aviary (for both large and small birds) where they have plenty of time to check things out and interact with staff, in addition to the regular feeding and bathing times.</p></div>
Will my bird have time outside her cage and some interaction with your handlers? What if she's staying in one of your offices?
Yes! Actually, this is about larger birds, of course, because tiny little birds really do need to stay in their cages. BUT...
Do I need to get my bird's wings clipped?
Answer

DKC has ethical concerns regarding wing-clipping. Instead, we strongly advocate teaching your bir

<h5>Do I need to get my bird's wings clipped?</h5><p>DKC has ethical concerns regarding wing-clipping. Instead, we strongly advocate teaching your bird about and familiarising your bird with his home environment and surrounding territory, and keeping him in a safe environment where he cannot fly away.</p> <p>If wing-clipping is a decision you feel you must nevertheless take, the procedure is fairly straightforward and will be done either with or without anaesthesia, depending on the bird involved and their reaction to the process (i.e. their stress levels). But do be aware that even after wing-clipping, birds can still fly a very little bit and will gain some height in the air while trying ~ especially smaller birds ~ but they will not be able to gain and sustain enough height and could well fall from the air and injure themselves.</p> <p>Give this all some thought and talk to us if you'd like more guidance and insight.</p>
Do you offer a Collection & Delivery service for doggity-dog daycare?
Answer

Well, you see, we just can't say "no" to you if you really REALLY want to do this, or really need

<h5>Do you offer a Collection & Delivery service for doggity-dog daycare?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_110.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Well, you see, we just <em>can't</em> say "no" to you if you really REALLY want to do this, or really need to, but...</p> <p>In truth, we don't really recommend it. You see, we feel that if your dog is going to daycare, then she should be <em>in</em> daycare, not on the road in a vehicle travelling to and from your chosen daycare facility, which can take up quite a bit of time in the day. Playing in our yards is where it's at, baby!</p> <p>This said, if you really <span><strong>REALLY</strong></span> insist, then we'll make that happen for you!  <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png" height="15" width="15"></p></div>
Why is there a charge for administering medication for my pet?
Answer
<h5>Why is there a charge for administering medication for my pet?</h5> <p>Weeeelllll... because it really does take quite a bit of our time and energy. And we're glad to do it. Really! But the time is often significant and we often have many pets in our care needing medication, so the whole management of this, in addition to the administering of meds itself, turns it all into quite a daily project. Hope you understand. <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_sad.png" height="15" width="15"></p>
How often will my dog exercise each day and for how long?
Answer
<h5>How often will my dog exercise each day and for how long?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_40.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>From about end of September to April, all your dogs get into our exercise yards at least 3-4 times a day for a good 15-30 minute romp each time, and if we have your permission they'll be playing with other dogs too. For those dogs with especially high energy levels or any good need for more of this time, or if you ask us to, because the weather is nice we just let 'em stay in the yards for much of the day. Our general approach during the cooler times of the year is to have as many dogs out in the yards as much as possible, which is quite a lot of the time.</p> <p>During the hotter summer months, just as when your dog is home with you, we need to be careful about being outside in the heat for too long. So they all still get out 2-3 times a day but the runs in the yards are for shorter periods of time, as we are very watchful to make sure the heat is not having an impact. And of course we don't leave the dogs out in the yards all day at this time of year for the very same reason.</p> <p>This all said, all our enclosures are indoor/outdoor with a/c, and designed so that all the dogs can see each other, intereact with each other in the general environment, and feel part of the community. So even when they're in their enclosures, they're still very active and generally having a very social time. Read more about this: <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/love-and-other-stuff-too" target="_blank">Love... and other stuff too</a> ~ take a look at the sub-sections called <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/love-and-other-stuff-too#Socializing-Dogs" target="_blank">Socializing</a> and <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/love-and-other-stuff-too#Socializing-Dogs2" target="_blank">Socializing ~ Part 2</a>.</p></div>
How often will my dog exercise each day and for how long?
From about end of September to April, all your dogs get...
Do you have a swimming pool for dogs?

You just had to ask that question, didn't you!?

Sorry, no we don't. We'd love to, but we don't. Can we offer you a glass of water instead? 
My dog and cat LOVE each other! Can they stay in the same enclosure?
Answer

Yes they can!!... maybe.

We have a small number of enclosures which are part of the catter

<h5>My dog and cat LOVE each other! Can they stay in the same enclosure?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_38.JPG"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Yes they can!!... maybe.</p> <p>We have a small number of enclosures which are part of the catteries but not too far from the kennels and which, most importantly, are the right size and configuration for a small dog. Each year we have quite a few customers indeed who ask for this and in most cases it works very very nicely.</p> <p>Take a look at <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/the-kennels-the-catteries-the-kennatteries" target="_blank">The Kennels, The Catteries &amp; The Kennatteries</a>.</p></div>
Do you do grooming, dematting, simple "hair care"?

Yes we do. And no we don't.

Read all about it here: Grooming
What are your enclosures like? What size are they?
Answer
<h5>What are your enclosures like? What size are they?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_34.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>The very best way to answer that question is for you to come meet us and take a look for yourself. In fact, that's what we always really strongly recommend.</p> <p>But that's not always easy to schedule, is it. We know. So you should definitely look at the images <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/the-kennels-the-catteries-the-kennatteries" target="_blank">here</a> and elsewhere around our site, as well as our video tour <a href="/video-tour" target="_blank">here</a>, because there are lots for you see, and this should help a great deal in understanding what your pet will experience.</p> <p>In short, though, our enclosures are like this:</p> <ul> <li>All our dog enclosures have an indoor and an outdoor run, and almost all our cat enclosures do too, and your pet decides where he or she wants to be. Those few cat enclosures which don't have an outdoor run, we try to reserve for cats which need or like to be inside most of the time anyway.</li> <li>All indoor runs are air-conditioned.</li> <li>Cat enclosures are multi-storied, with shelves and trapdoors and bedding and toys and all.</li> <li>All dog enclosures have various types of comfortable, snuggly bedding.</li> <li>Cat enclosures range in size. The smallest space we have is an indoor portion of a run which is L:0.8m x W:0.8m x H:1m. The largest space we have is an outdoor portion of a run which is L:4.2m x W:1.1m x H:2.2m.</li> <li>Dog enclosures also range in size. Our smallest enclosures are 1.5m x 1.5m both indoor and outdoor. Our largest are 2.2m x 1.8m indoor and 3m x 2.5m outdoor. And there are a couple of sizes in between.</li> </ul></div>
What are your enclosures like? What size are they?
The very best way to answer that question is for...
Will you clip my pet's nails if needed?
Answer

Yes we will.

Our staff are well trained for this and we always check for such things with

<h5>Will you clip my pet's nails if needed?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_42.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Yes we will.</p> <p>Our staff are well trained for this and we always check for such things with all dogs, cats and birds... and anyone else that might need it. (Yes, yes, of course we'll clip yours too... but only if ask you <em>real</em> nice.) We won't do any actual clipping without your permission, however, so just ask us to and/or we'll let you know if we think it's needed.</p> <p>For dogs and cats, no charge!</p> <p>For birds, this can sometimes require sedation and, therefore, veterinary involvement, and therefore charges, but we'll talk to you about that if we think it's needed, of course, and don't hesitate to ask.</p></div>
What's the best birdie food?
Answer
<h5>What's the best birdie food?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_115.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>It all depends on the species! (Surprised?) Falcons, for example, are true carnivores and require a meat diet. Large amazon parrots, such as macaws, require lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, in addition to a good quality, complete pellet diet. Small birds, like canaries and finches, will need a seed-based diet, and it's important to source good quality seed because seeds and nuts can be the source of <em>aspergillus</em>, a fungal infection, which affects their respiratory system.</p> <p>Read more about diet <a href="/what-we-do/dkc-veterinary-clinic/veterinary-care-for-birds" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></div>
What's the best birdie food?
It all depends on the...
Do I get a discount if I bring my own food?
Answer
<h5>Do I get a discount if I bring my own food?</h5> <p>Sorry about this, but no. Food for your pets is, of course, a cost for us but another very significant cost factor is the actual time, effort and resource to do the feeding itself. With all the pets we have in our care, special feeding, even if it's your own food, requires that much more involvement.</p> <p>We hope you understand.</p>
Do you have a vet on-site?
Answer
<h5>Do you have a vet on-site?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_48.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>No, we do not have a vet <em>on-site</em>.</p> <p>However, that really should not worry you. Our own vets at <a href="/what-we-do/dkc-veterinary-clinic" target="_blank">DKC Veterinary Clinic</a> are available to our boarding staff 24 hours a day, every single day of the year, so if anything is ever wrong we do have the resources that you and your pet need.</p> <p>Furthermore, in almost all cases when a pet is needing veterinary attention, it is not an emergency situation. So we will be able to book appointments with our own clinic or your preferred vet if you wish, and we will also of course always let you know in advance that we are doing that unless for some reason you are unreachable and it cannot wait.</p> <p>Finally, because of <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/love-and-other-stuff-too" target="_blank">the way we work</a> on a daily basis, we almost always discover very early if there are any developing problems, which also does a lot to keep your pet well and, most importantly, to avoid emergency situations almost all the time.</p></div>
Do you have a vet on-site?
No, we do not have a vet...
Can I have pictures of my pet while I'm away? Do you have a webcam?
Answer

Pictures? Yesssiiirrree! And not just that! We also do videos! (Don't get too excited, now.) We c

<h5>Can I have pictures of my pet while I'm away? Do you have a webcam?</h5><p>Pictures? Yesssiiirrree! And not just that! We also do videos! (Don't get <em>too</em> excited, now.) We call it <span class="span_link cursorpointer" data-href="/pet-pics-and-videos">Pics &amp; Videos of the DKC Litter</span>. Take a look! If you let us know you'd like a dedicated set of pics or a video of your pet while you're away, we'll make an album for you and post on the page. But we don't stop there: we also post our "DKC Weekly Photo Shoot" on our <span class="span_link cursorpointer" data-href="http://facebook.com/dkc.animal.people">Facebook</span> page, which includes just a couple of pics of all the animals currently staying with us ~ including yours, of course.</p> <p>As for the webcam thing... sorry, no, we don't have webcams.</p> <p>(Did we just spoil it for you?)</p>
Does my bird need exercise?
Answer
<h5>Does my bird need exercise?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_123.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>BIrds can become very overweight, especially if they're not given a large enough space to move around in. This can be especially true for birds with clipped wings, who are more likely to end up rather sedentary.</p> <p>And so, yes, exercise for your bird is very important in helping them stay fit and healthy, to say nothing of reducing or eliminating boredom. Give them as much opportunity to fly as possible, if at all possible, with lots of perches around their environment which they can fly from/to. And if you're developing a good connected relationship with your bird, calling her to you from a distance will encourage flying and general activity. Even encouraging your bird to walk along the floors of your home can be fun, explorative activity, especially if you've got her looking for toys and food!</p></div>
Does my bird need exercise?
BIrds can become very...
Can my unneutered male cat board with you?
Answer
<h5>Can my unneutered male cat board with you?</h5> <p>You're probably not going to like this much, but no, sorry... with one strict exception: if your cat is <strong>less</strong> than 6 months old, then yes.</p> <p>The reason is that cats can be very territorial and as a result tend to mark their territory rather aggressively which, as you can imagine, isn't something that works too well in a community of cats (even though all the cats are of course in their own enclosures). And whooohooo!, the smell! <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png"></p> <p>If you're really in need of boarding for your unneutered cat, you might consider neutering before you leave. If you're in a rush with a sudden unexpected trip, <a href="/what-we-do/dkc-veterinary-clinic/to-neuter-or-not-to-neuter" target="_blank">we can manage the neutering and post-operative care for you</a>.</p>
Do I need to make an appointment?
Answer

We genuinely love having people just drop by and look around both our locations in Umm Ramool (Bo

<h5>Do I need to make an appointment?</h5><p>We genuinely love having people just drop by and look around both our locations in <a href="/about-dkc/howl-we-get-there#dkcmap" target="_blank">Umm Ramool</a> (Boarding, Daycare, Relocations) and <a href="/about-dkc/howl-we-get-there#dkcvetmap" target="_blank">Motor City</a> (Veterinary Clinic).</p> <p>If you want to relocate your pet into or out of Dubai, or if you need veterinary care, then we do indeed need you to contact us to make an appointment... but we promise we won't make that difficult.  <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png"></p> <p>If, however, you just want to see either of our facilities and look around, to see where your pet will live while you're away and he's boarding or while she's in veterinary care, and to have a chat with our Animal Handlers... then just come on down any time during our <a href="/about-dkc/two-legged-timings" target="_blank">Two-Legged Timings</a>.</p> <p>If you want to actually reserve boarding space for your pet, then yes, you do need to contact us in advance. How far in advance? Well, that depends on the time of year. Take a look at <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/gotta-book-early" target="_blank">Gotta Book Early! </a>If you've already booked your pet in for boarding, then you can also just come in whenever you're ready on the day during our Two-Legged Timings (or of course you can arrange for <a href="/what-we-do/collection-delivery" target="_blank">Collection & Delivery</a>).</p>
My pet is taking medications ~ can DKC Boarding manage this?
Answer
<h5>My pet is taking medications ~ can DKC Boarding manage this?</h5> <p>As Barack Obama said... YES WE CAN!</p> <p>Just talk to us about it and we'll organise the rest.</p> <p>(Don't like Barack Obama quotes? Oops!)</p>
My cat is an indoor cat. Can she stay indoors and will the space be small?
Answer
<h5>My cat is an indoor cat. Can she stay indoors and will the space be small?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_104.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Your cat can definitely stay indoors. Our enclosures are not small at all, and if we're not too busy, we have a way of reconfiguring our enclosures to open up spaces and give the cats staying with us more space... than a cow in a field! (Well, sort of. <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png" height="15" width="15"> ). And on top of that, we even have Buddy-Boarding for cats from the same family and even from different families ~ yep, believe it. (Take a look at <a href="/docs/A_Fair_Share.pdf" target="_blank">A Fair Share</a>.)</p></div>
My cat is an indoor cat. Can she stay indoors and will the space be small?
Your cat can definitely stay indoors. Our enclosures are not small at...
Can my cat/kitten socialise with other cats/kittens?
Answer

As you know, cats and dogs are VERY different when it comes to socialising. Most cats prefer to b

<h5>Can my cat/kitten socialise with other cats/kittens?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_107.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>As you know, cats and dogs are VERY different when it comes to socialising. Most cats prefer to be loners or to only socialise with their own family members. However...</p> <p>We actually do have quite a few cats and kittens stay with us who are much more interested in and amenable to socialising than you might anticipate. Yep, it's true.</p> <p>If you're interested in us playing around with the playing around of your cat or kitten, including Buddy-Boarding, just talk to us about it and we'll see what we can do. It's not a guaranteed thing (as it often is with dogs) but we can certainly try and, rather wonderfully, it goes really well quite often, indeed. It's easier with kittens, of course, due to their youth and fun and playful nature, but it doesn't always stop there. And older cats often enjoy the camaraderie too.</p></div>
Is the canine cough vaccination absolutely necessary for my dog to board/daycare?
Answer

The canine cough vaccine is an additional vaccination generally needed only for dogs who stay in

<h5>Is the canine cough vaccination absolutely necessary for my dog to board/daycare?</h5><p>The canine cough vaccine is an additional vaccination generally needed only for dogs who stay in a kennels, daycare or any other community of dogs for any period of time. It is often referred to as "kennel cough" because people understandably associate the "cough", and therefore the vaccine, with kennels, but in fact it's an illness, similar to a human cold or flu, which can be caught and spread around in any community of dogs, much like a human cold caught by kids at school or adults in an office environment.</p> <p>This is because when dogs are in close proximity to each other and are barking and playing and running around, they can easily transmit, or get, the disease. Canine cough is a highly contagious but generally not very severe upper respiratory infection and causes a dry, irritating and hacking cough. Kennels facilities use the vaccination as a way to limit outbreaks and to prevent the spread of the illness if it happens to be brought into the facility by an affected pet. Most facilities will not accept a dog without this vaccination being up-to-date and it is a good idea to have it administered because it generally either prevents or reduces the severity of the disease if it is indeed contracted.</p> <p>If your dog regularly, or even annually, spends time in a kennels, daycare or dog park (or with any group of dogs in any situation), it's a real good idea to keep this vaccination current, even if not asked for or required by the facility you're using.</p>
Does my bird need dietary supplements?
Answer
<h5>Does my bird need dietary supplements?</h5> <p>If your bird is eating a good quality, complete diet, including fresh fruit and vegetables, there is usually no need for extra dietary supplements. Yay!  <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png" height="15" width="15"></p>
Can my dog mix/socialize with others?
Answer
<h5>Can my dog mix/socialize with others?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_36.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Definitely yes.</p> <p>We love giving every possible opportunity we can to our dogs to mix and socialize with others, so when you arrive just let us know if this is something you and your dog would like ~ we'll make it happen. Safely of course, with lots of monitoring and control, but as much as possible. We're always evaluating all the dogs in our care to see which are good candidates for sharing playtime (and even sharing enclosures, if you like) with others, and then putting the right dogs together. If you want us to do this with your dog, then great. If not, that's just fine too.</p> <p>Take a look here for more info on this: <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/love-and-other-stuff-too#Socializing-Dogs" target="_blank">Love... and other stuff too/Socializing</a></p></div>
Can my dog mix/socialize with others?
Definitely yes. We love giving...
Do you have discounts for long-term boarding or buddy-boarding?

We sure do.

Take a look at our price list.

If your pet boards with us for 28 or more consecutive days, we give you a 10% discount; if 60 days within a year, you get 7 days free boarding for future use. Also, if your pet buddy-boards with another family's pet, then it's a 20% discount! Yay!!
Is my pet old?
Answer

Don't ya know? You're only as old as you feel!

Cats are generally considered "senior" on

<h5>Is my pet old?</h5><p>Don't ya know? You're only as old as you feel! <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_wink.png" height="15" width="15"></p> <p>Cats are generally considered "senior" once they reach 7 or 8 years of age.<br>Dogs are generally considered "senior" from 7 years of age for small breeds and from 6 years of age for large breeds.</p> <p>Now, if your pet falls into the "senior pet" age range, the following issues may arise: diabetes. kidney disease, heart issues, signs of cancer, liver disease, joint problems, neurological conditions, blindness, deafness, and generalised pain issues, amongst others. Or your pet might be <em>perfectly fine</em>, and indeed many many are... so DON'T PANIC (we're just giving you a bit of info, not a warning ~ promise!). It's important to look after your senior pet's teeth because failing or even rotting teeth can cause unexpected and ultimately unnecessary illness too. And then, of course, there's diet, something which becomes increasingly important as your pet gets older. especially if they have any medical issues. Soooooo... what does this all mean? Well, it means you need to just keep an eye on things and otherwise enjoy your pet.</p> <p>When your pet is staying with us, we are happy and able to administer medications prescribed by your vet and to ensure that he's comfortable with extra soft bedding or whatever else might be needed. If he's on limited exercise, we'll make sure he's cared for appropriate, including a quiet rest spot. And we also have a <a href="/what-we-do/dkc-veterinary-clinic" target="_blank">DKC vet</a> on-call at all times.</p>
Vaccinations ~ How often?
Answer

Dogs can receive their first course of vaccinations at 8-10 weeks old, and cats at 9-12 weeks old

<h5>Vaccinations ~ How often?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_77.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Dogs can receive their first course of vaccinations at 8-10 weeks old, and cats at 9-12 weeks old. They then require their second course of vaccinations 4 weeks later, which should then be followed by yearly booster vaccinations.</p> <p>Are there exceptions to these rules? Yep!</p> <p>Some babes need to be vaccinated at 6 weeks of age if their mother wasn't vaccinated at all. (You see, these babes borrow and benefit from their mum's vaccinations). Result? A total of three vaccinations at 6, 9 and 12 weeks old.</p> <p>Learn about this <a href="/what-we-do/dkc-veterinary-clinic/vaccinations-the-lazy-way" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="/what-we-do/dkc-veterinary-clinic/dubai-pet-municipality-tags-registration" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></div>
Birds get bored??!
Answer
<h5>Birds get bored??!</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_124.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Yes! Birds get bored!</p> <p>In fact, it's <em>very possible</em> that your bird is getting bored. You see, birds are highly intelligent, especially parrots of all sizes and types, and they truly do thrive with stimulation and interaction. If they don't have enough stimulation, they can become destructive and agitated, including self-destructive in the worst cases, such as plucking their own feathers and going through unwanted and unhealthy personality changes.</p> <p>So please DO take this seriously and make sure that your lovely birdie-bird has an interesting environment to live in, is connected to and engaged with the humanoids in your home, and even has a birdie-partner to live with, if at all possible.</p> <p>Who wants to be alone and bored, right?  <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_wink.png" height="15" width="15"></p></div>
Birds get bored??!
Yes! Birds get...
Boarding Reservations: How far in advance do I have to book?
Answer
<h5>Boarding Reservations: How far in advance do I have to book?</h5> <p>Now <em>that's</em> an important question!</p> <p>During more than half the year, you can book anytime, even last minute, and we'll be able to take your pet in. No problem.</p> <p>During about 5 months of the year, things are a bit more complicated than that. Take a look at <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/gotta-book-early" target="_blank">Gotta Book Early!</a></p>
Do dogs stay only in kennel enclosures or do you have other spaces for them?
Answer
<h5>Do dogs stay only in kennel enclosures or do you have other spaces for them?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_103.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Besides our kennels enclosures, we also have other spaces where our dogs spend their time and sleep. Since not all dogs cope their best in the kennels area, we have our Lounge, Feedroom and two office areas ~ and all these spaces have handlers and other staff around all the time, as well as other dogs too, of course. For older and/or nervous dogs who are small-to-medium-sized and who feel comfortable in a bigger group of dogs, these spaces might be ideal.</p> <p>This said, be aware that we don't offer our Buddy-Boarding discount for dogs in these spaces. Also, in our reception and shipping offices, we can only have dogs who don't bark a lot and are by nature quite and calm. Oh, and if you're pooch tends to mark his territory all the time, we might decide that these spaces aren't quite right for him either (sorry).</p></div>
Do dogs stay only in kennel enclosures or do you have other spaces for them?
Besides our kennels enclosures, we also have other spaces where our dogs...
Are all dogs welcome?
Answer

You bet! All dogs are welcome at DKC ~ young, old, calm, hyper, quiet, loud... you name 'em, we t

<h5>Are all dogs welcome?</h5><p>You bet! All dogs are welcome at DKC ~ young, old, calm, hyper, quiet, loud... you name 'em, we take 'em. And your dog does <span>not</span> need to be neutered or spayed in order to board with us or come for daycare either.</p> <p>We also do <span>not</span> require a behaviour assessment beforehand for dogs to stay with us ~ believe it or not, we really do have skilled and exhaustively trained handlers who will assess your dog's behaviour and needs "on the job", in real time, and get to know them and manage them appropriately as we go. We will, of course, make sure that intact males and females do not get the chance to be "amorous" with one another, but we'll still make sure that they have lots of opportunity for socializing with other dogs, just as any other dog staying with us would. Take a look here for a little more insight into our ways: <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/love-and-other-stuff-too#Socializing-Dogs" target="_blank">Love.. and other stuff too</a>".</p> <p>We've got the skills AND the (headache) pills for the job!  <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_wink.png" height="15" width="15"></p>
Is someone looking after my pet during weekends, holidays and at night?
Answer
<h5>Is someone looking after my pet during weekends, holidays and at night?</h5> <p>Simply, yes. Even when we are closed to our two-legged customers, we have staff on-site every single day of the year. Full stop.</p> <p>Furthermore, we have staff on-site even at night. And because of our relocations work, which takes place mostly at night, every night, we have at least a couple of hours spread throughout the night when things are going on at DKC. Now, in fairness, we're not actually working with all the animals during the night as we do during the day, but after all folks, your pets need to sleep too! <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png"></p>
Does my dog have to be neutered to board or daycare with you? And can my dog socialise with others if not neutered?
Answer

Nope, your dog does not have to be neutered to board or daycare with us or to socialise with othe

<h5>Does my dog have to be neutered to board or daycare with you? And can my dog socialise with others if not neutered?</h5><p>Nope, your dog does not have to be neutered to board or daycare with us or to socialise with other dogs.</p> <p>But... (isn't there <em>always</em> a "but"?!)... there are some good reasons to neuter, so we'll offer some of them up for you here.</p> <p>We have found that dogs who are neutered tend to socialise better and also buddy-board better. Neutering your dog can help calm down his instinct to dominate, which of course can make being with other dogs a little more likely to be an agreeable experience, as you can imagine ~ once neutered, he'll likely (there are never guarantees!) be more interested in actual play than dominance. From a health point of view, it can also be a good decision to neuter. Spaying helps to lower the incidence of uterine infection and breast cancer in females which, when the latter occurs, is fatal in 50% of dogs and 90% of cats. And neutering helps to prevent testicular cancer and disincline males to marking their territory in your home. Finally (well, not "finally" as much as "this is everything we're going to tell you here!), unneutered little 'uns can often be more aggressive, or more easily triggered to aggression, while being neutered can help their (and your) focus on their human family.</p> <p>(Did we mention over-population?)</p>
What are your opening hours?

Take a look...

...at our Two-Legged Timings for Boarding, Daycare, Relocations and our Veterinary Clinic.
How long will my bird live for?

Longer than you think!!

It depends on the species of your bird. Small birds, such as budgies and cockatiels, can live for up to 20 years, and the larger parrots, like Macaws and African Greys, have been reported to live well over 60 years. OMG!
Which vaccinations does my pet need?
Answer

If you're relocating your pet into the UAE, the best place to get this information is on our Pet

<h5>Which vaccinations does my pet need?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_17.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>If you're relocating your pet into the UAE, the best place to get this information is on our <a href="/what-we-do/global-relocations/pet-imports" target="_blank">Pet Imports</a> page and in our document <em>Relocating Pets into the UAE</em>.</p> <p>If you're planning to board your pet with us, or partake of doggy daycare, then take a look at our <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/prices-admission-requirements">prices & admission requirements</a>.</p> <p>Research and reading is just so much fun, don't you agree?</p></div>
My dog stayed in your kennels and now he has a hangover!
Answer
<h5>My dog stayed in your kennels and now he has a hangover!</h5> <p>No, we do <em><strong>not</strong></em> serve alcohol at DKC!  <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png"></p> <p>"Kennel hangover" is a rather common thing... and a good one, if we do say so ourselves! You see, there is so much activity and general stimulation in a good kennels, that when your dog gets home it is very common for him or her to be a little tired for a couple of days ~ all that running around, socializing and barking their heads off with all their kennel neighbours (watch for that hoarsey-throat! <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_wink.png" height="15" width="15"> ), and no sitting around vegging in front of the TV!</p> <p>So don't worry but do keep an eye. In almost all cases, this is just a happy, if a little tired, dog. If he or she continues being a little down or lethargic for more than a day or so, please do let us and your vet know. </p>
Should I bring toys for my dog when coming to board?
Answer

Toys are great, and helpful, when dogs are at home because they grab their wild attentions and ab

<h5>Should I bring toys for my dog when coming to board?</h5><p>Toys are great, and helpful, when dogs are at home because they grab their wild attentions and abate boredom. In boarding though, your pooch has lots of other dog friends to play with and, believe it or not, they end up losing interest in those toys!</p> <p>However, for dogs still interested in their toys when with us, but staying in our Lounge, Feedroom or in one of our offices where all the dogs are in groups and close proximity, there is sometimes the possibility of them getting possessive of their toys, which doesn't help anyone. <img alt="" src="/graphics/ic_smiley3.png" height="15" width="15">  Of course, if your dog has a toy that he's REALLY attached to, and if he's staying in an enclosure by himself, then you can always bring that along.</p>
What's your daycare service like?
Answer
<h5>What's your daycare service like?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_32.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Dogs in daycare with us basically follow the same routine throughout the day that all our boarders do, including playtime in our large sandy, tree-filled yards, mixing with other dogs (if you let us), food (of course!) and generally lots and lots of excitement while in their enclosures because of all the other dogs around and the many many many staff we have constantly checking in and constantly around and about. Why don't you come and see for yourself?</p> <p>See our <a href="/about-dkc/two-legged-timings" target="_blank">Two-Legged Timings</a>. We even work out a schedule for those of you who need to drop-off and pick-up schedule outside these hours.</p></div>
What's your daycare service like?
Dogs in daycare with us...
Can DKC help me rehome my pet?

No, sorry. This is not something we are involved in.

We are a for-profit, commercial (but lovely and homey!) boarding and daycare business. However, there are many not-for-profit, equally lovely organisations in the UAE who are totally focused on helping people rehome family pets and strays. A quick search in Google will get you headed in the right direction.
Does my bird need vaccinations?

Yes... maybe.

There are different vaccines available for different species of birds, with the main vaccinations being for poultry. Parrots tend not to need vaccines unless it's a requirement of the country they are in or travelling to.
Will you board my bird • rabbit • ferret • guinea pig • hamster • mouse • lizard • snake... any animal at all?
Answer
<h5>Will you board my bird &#8226; rabbit &#8226; ferret &#8226; guinea pig &#8226; hamster &#8226; mouse &#8226; lizard &#8226; snake... any animal at all?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_30.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>You bet! Just about any animal at all.</p> <p>And we have quite a lot of knowledge about these animals too, so it's not just a matter of sticking them somewhere in our facility and hoping for the best. We've spent a lot of time and energy over the years making sure that we have handlers who have real knowledge and experience in dealing with all manner of domestic pet and exotics, including and especially appropriate feeding and enclosures/spaces for them. And if there's anything we don't know, we have excellent contacts in the realm of wildlife husbandry and care who we can talk to.</p> <p>Take a look here: <a href="/what-we-do/boarding-daycare/pet-boarding-other-animals" target="_blank">Other Creatures Too</a></p></div>
Will you board my bird • rabbit • ferret • guinea pig • hamster • mouse • lizard • snake... any animal at all?
You bet! Just about any animal at all. And we have quite a lot of knowledge about these animals too, so it's not just a matter of...
What's DKC's Collection & Delivery schedule?
Answer
<h5>What's DKC's Collection & Delivery schedule?</h5> <div class="faq_ans_img"><img loading="lazy" src="https://d12fifzdy7ujh4.cloudfront.net/images/faqs/faq_pet_photo_51.jpg"></div> <div class="faq_ans_text"><p>Sunday-Friday. We don't offer this service on Saturday. (See our <a href="/about-dkc/two-legged-timings" target="_blank">Two-Legged Timings</a>.)</p> <p>We have a lot of customers asking for very specific appointments but this is often not possible, although we <em>do</em> try if we can, because each day presents its own unpredictable schedules, number of home-visits, number of pets and... traffic!</p> <p>However, we <em><strong>always call</strong></em> approximately 30 minutes before we get to you while we're doin' the rounds, so <em>do</em> feel free to go about your day as you need to and then, when you hear from us, you can return to your home to meet us.</p></div>
What's DKC's Collection & Delivery schedule?
Sunday-Friday. We don't offer this service...

Animal Care. Animal Relocations. By Animal People.

Love... and other stuff too

+971-4-211-4800 email
boardingdaycare@dkc.ae
relocations@dkc.ae
vet@dkc.ae
careers@dkc.ae

DKC Notification
DKC Notification

COVID-19 and DKC

STILL BARKING AND MEOWING AND YAP-YAP-YAPPING!
Please see our Collections & Delivery and Two-Legged Timings pages for important changes to our services during this almost-normal-again time of covid-19.

STAYCATIONS with GRAND HYATT HOTEL and DKC

15% off DKC Boarding when staying at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai for a staycation!!

Along with free Collection & Delivery!

Need a rest? Can't leave the country? Don't WANT to leave the country?!

We've partnered with the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai for those of you wanting a lovely little staycation and want to have your pet cared for at the same time. Yahooo!

Just contact our boarding team and provide confirmation of your booking with the Grand Hyatt... and we'll take care of the rest!