Any one used Barking Mad dog care? I have a query.

[ApolloandDaphne]

I signed up to Barking Mad at the end of last year as i need care for my 6yo Lab for almost 2 weeks in the summer. My DP usually look after her for us but they are coming away with us. Barking Mad seems the best solution.

Dog is to go for her trial stay for 2 nights very soon. I understood this would be with the family she will be staying with in the summer so they could see how she gets on etc. I e mailed the BM co-ordinator yesterday asking when i might get details of where she is going. Here was the response:

"We only inform customers at the time of collection as we do not want any disappointment should things change. However, as it is DDog's first holiday with us, I will send you the intended hosts details tomorrow when I'm back in the office."

Is this suggesting that the family she has the trial with may not be the one she stays with for the longer period? I want her to go with people i have met and can trust. There is no way i will hand her over to strangers at the point of collection. I do understand they are strangers the first time but that is only 2 nights and my parents will be on hand should there be issues.

Am i being all a bit precious here? Anyone know how it works from first hand experience?

Absolutely - I understand kennels don't suit all dogs (and i would only say use kennels that you are happy with obviously - not all are the same!). But i would strongly recommend reaching out (facebook is a good idea) for other local boarders or teams because I certainly would want to know exactly who is looking after my dogs and where in advance of the time i'm away.
Glad you've had a good experience Squirrels and you are right, it sounds like differences between the franchises.

Just seen your post about FB, another good place to ask is at your vets. They often have a finger on the pulse for good home boarders etc

That’s a good point about vets, I found my best ever dog walker through them.

FB is a great way for finding out things like that plus local events.

Ooh good point about the vet. Dog has her annual check up next week. Will ask there.

I'm astounded anyone would allow their beloved pet to be collected by a stranger and taken to a strange environment with people they didn't know. My advice is get a boarder your dog can go to spend time with, then have an overnight stay. I couldn't settle going on holiday wondering what would be happening to them.

Thing is that i won't leave her with complete strangers for the longer holiday if they cannot guarantee it will be the same family as have her for her trial. I will have info about that host family tomorrow. The trial is 2 nights and i will at home the first night so can collect her if she doesn't settle.

At least with kennels you can visit the place beforehand. Why would any person who is looking after a dog not agree to meet it before and let the dog get a bit more comfortable? This is very strange.

Hmm I’m with you OP. What’s the benefit of a trial if it’s with a different boarder?

And I agree with whoever said Tailster- I found someone lovely on there and you can visit and chat to them beforehand