Holiday Dog Boarding in Milwaukee: Book Before Spots Fill Up

If you're heading out of town for Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 26) or Christmas (Friday, December 25), now is the time to book holiday dog boarding in Milwaukee. Holiday weeks are the busiest of the year for boarding and pet sitting around Milwaukee, and the most popular spots book up early. Here's how to find a good fit, what to ask, and how to make the stay easy on your pup.

1. Book as early as you can

Many boarding facilities and sitters take holiday reservations weeks or even months in advance. If you haven't booked for Thanksgiving yet, call this week. For Christmas and New Year's, try to lock something in before Thanksgiving. If your first choice is full, ask to be put on a waitlist. Holiday plans change, and cancellations do happen.

2. Decide what kind of care fits your dog

  • Boarding facility: Your dog stays at a kennel or boarding center with staff on site. It's a good fit for social, easygoing dogs.
  • In-home pet sitter: Someone stays at your home or stops by several times a day. This works well for older dogs, anxious dogs, or homes with several pets.
  • Doggy daycare with overnight boarding: Some daycares offer overnight stays, so your dog can play during the day with dogs they may already know.

3. Get your vaccine records together now

Most boarding facilities ask for proof of current vaccines before your dog's stay. Commonly that means rabies, distemper/parvo (DHPP), and Bordetella (kennel cough), and some also ask for canine influenza. Every place sets its own rules, so ask each one exactly what it needs. If your dog is due for a shot, schedule a vet visit now. Some vaccines need to be given a week or more before boarding. Need a vet? Find veterinarians near you.

4. Questions to ask before you book

  • What are your holiday rates, and is there a holiday surcharge?
  • How many dogs stay overnight, and is someone on site at night?
  • Do dogs get group play, individual walks, or both?
  • Can I bring my dog's own food, bed, or toy?
  • What happens if my dog gets sick or hurt during the stay?
  • Do you offer a trial day or a tour before the holiday?

5. Do a trial run if you can

If your dog has never boarded before, book a half day of daycare or a single night before the holiday. It helps your dog get used to the place, and it gives you peace of mind before you're hundreds of miles away.

6. Pack for an easy stay

  • Your dog's regular food, portioned out by meal (a sudden food change can upset their stomach)
  • Any medications, clearly labeled with instructions
  • A t-shirt or blanket that smells like home
  • Your contact info plus a local backup contact
  • Your vet's name and phone number

Holiday dog boarding FAQ

How far ahead should I book dog boarding for Thanksgiving or Christmas?

As early as you can. Popular boarding spots around Milwaukee often book up weeks ahead for holiday weeks, so call as soon as your travel dates are set.

What vaccines does my dog need for boarding?

Most facilities ask for rabies, distemper/parvo (DHPP) and Bordetella, and some also require canine influenza. Ask each place what it needs, and leave time for a vet visit if a shot is due.

How much does holiday dog boarding cost in Milwaukee?

Prices vary by facility, your dog's size, and the type of room, and many places add a holiday surcharge. Call two or three places in your town to compare.

Is a pet sitter better than a boarding facility?

It depends on your dog. Older dogs, anxious dogs, and homes with several pets often do better with an in-home sitter. Social, easygoing dogs usually enjoy boarding or daycare.

Find holiday boarding near you

We've rounded up boarding options across Milwaukee and Waukesha County, organized by town. Milwaukee: Milwaukee · Bay View · East Side North Shore and north: Shorewood · Whitefish Bay · Glendale · Brown Deer · Mequon · Menomonee Falls West suburbs: Wauwatosa · West Allis · Greenfield · Elm Grove · Brookfield · New Berlin South suburbs: Cudahy · South Milwaukee · Oak Creek · Franklin · Hales Corners · Muskego Waukesha County: Waukesha · Pewaukee · Sussex · Hartland · Delafield · Oconomowoc · Mukwonago Prefer someone at your house? Browse pet sitters and dog walkers too.

Own a boarding business?

If you run a kennel, boarding facility, or pet sitting service in the Milwaukee area, make sure pet parents can find you this holiday season. Add or claim your listing on Pet Guide MKE. Wishing you and your pup happy, stress-free holidays! 🐾