Rover is the global dog boarding app and one of the best out there, but if you don’t fancy using Rover, there are several other fantastic options for you in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia.
We all need to get away sometimes, and not every vacation is a dog-friendly one. As hard as it is to say goodbye to your Corgi for a few days, it’s important to see the world and relax while also ensuring your furry friend is on their own little holiday. Dog boarding can be just that – an exciting experience for your Corgi while you’re out of town.
But how do you find someone reputable to take care of your pup? It’s a difficult decision to make, and there are so many horror stories online that it can be hard to know where to look. That’s why I’m here to show you some of the best dog boarding services and apps around the world – helping Corgi lovers everywhere find somewhere safe for their pup.
I’ll be focusing on the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia for this guide.
Key Takeaways:
- Rover is one of the best dog boarding apps in the world
- Rover covers the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia
- There are loads of great alternatives in every country
- Always make sure your dog boarding service is licensed and insured
Rover: The Global Dog Boarding App
Rover is rated as the best dog boarding app in the world, and it can be found in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia. It’s highly rated, and there are loads of different services available for whatever your pet needs. Plus, you can check if the dog boarding services you’re about to use are licensed and insured.
The services Rover provides include:
- Dog boarding
- Dog sitting
- Dog walking
- Doggy daycare
- Drop-in visits
You can read the feedback for your chosen service and it will show you how many repeat pet owners they have. That way, you can see how trusted they are by others, and you get a good list of nearby services and how much they cost. There’s a reason they’re rated as the best, and I can see why.
The Best Dog Boarding Services/Apps In The USA
If you’re in the USA and you want an alternative to Rover, these are the dog boarding services and apps that I strongly recommend:
- PetBacker: You get everything from dog boarding to pet taxis and vet visits with this app, which means your dog is fully covered while you are away. You get price estimates, detailed feedback, and you can see how licensed and insured each person you’re looking at is.
- WagWalking: Every boarder on this app has to pass an extensive background check, and you are even able to track every dog walk through GPS. They are fully insured, and you can check out their feedback if you are worried about how reputable they are.
- Fetch Pet Care: This is one of the most extensive dog boarding apps I have come across. They have everything from standard sitting to licensed veterinary medicine administration covered. This means that even sick or elderly dogs with health conditions can be cared for properly.
- DogVacay: This is more for pet sitting where the sitter comes to your home, but you get daily photos and every sitter is fully insured. You can choose your sitter from a list, and it lets you look at their feedback and experience.
- Camp Bow Wow: This dog boarding service hires people who are trained in canine CPR and first aid. They have a whole range of additional services, and the thing that really makes them stand out is the fact they have live webcams you can access 24/7 to see how your dog is doing.
The Best Dog Boarding Services/Apps In Canada
For those in Canada, some of the best alternatives to Rover include:
- Pawshake: This app gives you affordable care for your dog and ensures all boarders have extensive background checks to ensure your dog’s safety while you are away. Only 15% of applicants are accepted because of how detailed the checks are, and all reviews are fully verified for your peace of mind.
- Pet Sitter: This app was made by dog lovers for dog lovers, and while it offers good boarding solutions, there is not as much vetting on this one. Therefore, you need to do more research into who you hire. It’s a good app, but getting a booking can take a while.
- Wag: With this dog boarding service, you get a 24/7 vet line you can contact, and all walks are tracked using GPS. In addition to dog boarding, they also offer walking and even training for pups who are a little naughty (perfect for Corgis).
The Best Dog Boarding Services/Apps In The UK
If you want a good alternative to Rover in the UK, these are some of the dog boarding services and apps that I would recommend:
- Borrow My Doggy: I used this app all the time when I was in university and wanted the company of a dog. I used to walk a Dalmation that I loved, and I did it for free. It was so much fun, and there are some great boarding services. However, background checks aren’t extensive, and you have to rely on feedback to decide who the right fit is.
- GuDog: The background check for this service is so extensive that only 15% of applicants are accepted. This means you know your dog is safe, and you can choose from a list of boarders and check out their feedback. You can even meet your sitter and have them meet your dog before you end up using their services.
- Collar App: This app has everything from dog boarding to vet visits, and it offers training for your dog if they need it. It’s quite an extensive service, and you can choose your boarder and check out their reviews to see how reputable they are.
The Best Dog Boarding Services/Apps In Australia
For those living in Australia, these are my top recommendations for dog boarding services and apps you might want to consider using:
- PetCloud: Everything from boarding and walking to grooming and training is covered through this app, and every boarder is accredited by RSPCA pet care training. All applicants are thoroughly vetted before being allowed to sign up, helping your pets stay safe.
- Mad Paws: This is another app that includes grooming and walking services alongside dog boarding and sitting. The vetting process is intense, and only one in four are accepted. You are also promised regular photo updates every day (multiple per day) to give you peace of mind.
- MindAHome: This is a great website for dog boarding because every house sitter needs to go through an extensive police background check before being accepted. After that, you can choose who you want to look after your pet and leave your home and your pup in good hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dog Boarding Apps Safe?
Yes, dog boarding apps are usually safe. Many of them have vetting processes to ensure that you are getting trusted care for your dog while you are away. The boarding services on the apps usually need to be insured and licensed to apply, which is why it’s important to check out the boarding service you’re looking at before you commit to a place with them.
Do Dog Boarding Apps And Services Cost A Lot?
The price of dog boarding apps and services can vary according to your location, the services provided, and the business you go with. Some of them will be affordable, and others will be expensive. This is why using the apps is great because you can filter through prices and find a business that suits your budget.
Should I Vaccinate My Dog Before Boarding Them?
Yes, dogs should be vaccinated before boarding them. All reputable boarders will want proof of vaccinations, boosters, and kennel cough vaccines before they are allowed to stay. This doesn’t just keep them safe – it protects any other dogs that might be there as well. Even if you’re doing one-on-one boarding, you will still need to ensure they are vaccinated.
Final Thoughts
Dog boarding can be a daunting experience when you do it for the first time. I know I was terrified and worrying every five minutes. But once you find a place you trust and where you know your dogs are happy, you’ll find it’s great for both of you. My dogs love their boarding place, and your Corgi will find somewhere they adore as well.
If you’re doing group boarding, just remember to make sure your Corgi is socialized with other dogs so that they have the best experience. Frightened Corgis don’t have fun, and there is a chance you will be called to collect them early if they are afraid or not getting on with other dogs. Outside of that, basic training is all you need in addition to those vaccinations.
