Small Animal Boarding at Smith's Pets
Safe & Caring Small Animal Boarding in Stockton-on-Tees
Going away and need someone to look after your rabbit, guinea pig or small pet?
At Smith's Pets, we provide safe, comfortable small animal boarding from our Portrack store, giving you peace of mind while you're away. Whether you're heading off for a long weekend, a family holiday or a business trip, our experienced team will ensure your pet receives the care and attention they need throughout their stay.
Daily Health Checks
Experienced Team
Secure Accomodation
Convenient Location
Why Choose Smith's Pets for Small Animal Boarding?
We understand that rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets are important members of the family, and leaving them behind while you go away can be a worry.
Our team takes the time to understand your pet's individual needs, routines and preferences, helping to make their stay as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
When your pet stays with us, they benefit from:
- Daily welfare and health monitoring
- Fresh food and clean water every day
- Experienced animal care staff
- Clean, secure and comfortable accommodation
- Feeding routines tailored to your pet where possible
- Prompt communication if any concerns arise
Whether you have a rabbit, guinea pig, hamster, gerbil, rat or another small pet, we'll work with you to ensure they're cared for properly throughout their stay, giving you peace of mind while you're away.
What Animals Do We Board?
We regularly welcome:
Rabbits
Whether you have a single rabbit or a bonded pair, we'll discuss their individual requirements before their stay.
Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs are social animals and are often happiest staying with their bonded companions.
Hamsters
We accommodate a variety of hamster species and provide appropriate housing during their stay.
Gerbils
Gerbils have their own unique care requirements, and we'll ensure they're looked after accordingly.
Rats & Mice
Intelligent and social pets that require regular observation and daily care.
If you have another small pet not listed above, please contact our team and we'll be happy to discuss whether we can accommodate them.
What's Included in Your Pet's Stay?
We understand that leaving your pet behind can be difficult, so our aim is to provide the same level of care we'd want for our own animals.
Throughout their stay, your pet will receive fresh food and clean water daily, along with regular welfare checks from our team. We'll monitor their appetite, behaviour and general wellbeing, helping us spot any concerns quickly.
Accommodation is checked and maintained regularly, ensuring pets remain comfortable, clean and secure throughout their stay.
If your pet has specific dietary requirements or routines, we'll discuss these with you before their visit so we can provide the best possible care.
What If My Pet Needs Medication?
If your pet requires medication or has any ongoing health concerns, please let us know before booking.
In many cases we can accommodate medication schedules, but it's important that we discuss requirements in advance.
Pricing Calculator Coming Soon
Is Small Animal Boarding Stressful?
Most rabbits, guinea pigs and small pets settle well when their daily routine, diet and care remain consistent.
That said, every animal is different. Some are naturally more confident, while others may take a little longer to adjust to a new environment.
We've created a separate guide covering:
- How rabbits and small animals adapt to boarding
- Signs of stress to look out for
- How we help pets settle during their stay
- Whether boarding is suitable for nervous or elderly pets
[Read: Is Small Animal Boarding Stressful?]
What Should I Bring?
To help your pet settle in as comfortably as possible, we recommend bringing:
- Their usual food
- Any treats they regularly enjoy
- Any medication they require
- Emergency contact details
For rabbits and guinea pigs, it's also helpful to let us know about their normal feeding routine and any specific preferences they may have.
The more we know about your pet's usual routine, the easier it is for us to provide consistent care throughout their stay.
FAQs
Should My Pet Stay in your Cage or Their Own?
Many owners ask whether it's better to bring their pets cage. The answer depends on the individual pet really.
Bringing your own enclosure
For some pets, staying in a familiar environment can help them settle more quickly.
Benefits: Familiar surroundings, Familiar scents, Established feeding areas, Can help reduce stress for some pets
Potential downsides: Larger hutches or cages can be difficult to transport, Some enclosures may not be suitable for boarding facilities, Set-up and transport can be more complicated
Using Smith's Pets Accommodation
Many pets settle very well into our boarding accommodation, particularly when they have their normal food and routine.
Benefits: Purpose-built accommodation, Easy drop-off and collection, Professionally maintained housing, Cleaned and monitored by our team
Potential downsides: Some pets may take a little time to adjust to new surroundings
If you're unsure which option is best, our team can advise during booking.
Can Bonded Pets Stay Together?
Yes.
For many species, particularly rabbits and guinea pigs, companionship is an important part of their welfare.
If your pets normally live together, we'll discuss the most appropriate accommodation options during the booking process.
Keeping bonded pets together can often help reduce stress and maintain familiar routines while you're away.
How early should I book?
As early as possible, particularly during school holidays and summer periods as spaces do tend to fill up quickly.
What happens if my pet becomes unwell?
We'll contact you immediately using the emergency details provided during booking.