Traditional dog kennel

A dog kennel is a traditional boarding facility – that generally comes with a crate / cage setup. The dog stay accommodations really depend on the dog boarding facility you select.  Generally most dog boarding places provide only basic services such as a single meal a day, water, a place to sleep (usually a crate which may not come with bedding, make sure you ask).  Some large corporate run facilities may not provide daily walks, or playtime with other dogs.  Again, make sure you ask

The Cost: The cost of boarding your dog in a kennel will depend on your Long Island town (in some towns, prices may be higher), and the dog boarding kennel that you choose. Common pricing for overnight boarding in a kennel is usually will start about $45 per night for most dogs.  Lower rates may apply to smaller dogs and of course lower rates apply to cat.  Discounts may be offered for long-term stays and additional dogs.

Dog hotel

Some pet owners want better care for their furry babies.  If you are looking for better care options, more room for your four legged friend to rest in and even a more upscale boarding option, a dog hotel works. Dog hotels differ from dog kennels in that they have deluxe facilities and premium services. Basically, your dog will be getting the full, five-star treatment. Upscale dog hotels offer luxuries such as swanky private rooms, comfy beds, better quality food options, flat screen TVs, grooming services and even spa treatments.  Plus extra daily walks, lots of group playtime, 24 hour supervision, and more.

The Cost: Expect to pay a pretty penny for this type of ritzy pet lodging. Dog hotels start at around $50 per night and go all the way up to several hundred dollars. Just like with a kennel, pricing can depend on your location, and you may get a discount for long-term stays and additional dogs.  See our report for the best rated long island dog hotels option on long island.  Our top selected dog hotel can be affordable for most pet families.

In-home dog boarding

In-home boarding is an option for owners who don’t have their boarded dogs vaccinated, or whose dogs are especially nervous or anxious around lots of new people and other pets. With in-home boarding, your dog stays with a dog sitter in their home. There are some benefits to this type of boarding, including a private home environment.  But, without other dogs to socialize and without the sort of activity, spa treatment and grooming options available at a pet hotel for example. While it may seem that in-home boarding websites like DogVacay.com, make finding a safe quality in-home boarder is easier than ever, there are pitfalls.   In private homes, you do not have the check and balances of a pet hotel for example.  Where trained staff and other dog owners stop by daily.   Nor is there a Vet available for any emergencies.

The Cost: In-home boarding is very affordable, since canine hosts set their own prices. Most boarders are dog-lovers who provide this type of service for extra money, and many set their prices low, costing as little as $40 per night.

Dog Sitter

If your dog is a real homebody, you may want to consider hiring a pet sitter instead of boarding. Pet sitters will come to your house several times a day for feeding, walks, and playtime. You can also hire a sitter to stay with your dog overnight. To find a pet sitter, ask for recommendations from your veterinarian.  A downside is that in private homes, you do not have the check and balances of a pet hotel for example.  Where trained staff and other dog owners stop by daily.   Nor is there a Vet available for any emergencies.

The Cost: The cost of pet sitting will depend on what you are asking of the sitter as well as their experience and qualifications. For stops by the house, a sitter may charge up top $50 per day (depending on the number of stops). The price goes up for overnight stays.

Want to spend less on dog boarding?

Check our top selection for quality local long island dog hotel that is affordable but comes with the activities, group play, grooming and other services all available under one root.