As any doting pet owner knows, leaving your beloved animal companion behind is one of the hardest parts of going away on holiday. Many an animal lover can’t bear the thought of entrusting the safety and comfort of their four-footed friends to a boarding kennel. Luckily, Sydney is home to a number of pet hotels and resorts which offer the best in pooch-pampering and kitty-caring for even the most discerning of pets. These luxurious facilities will give you peace of mind, free to enjoy your holiday while your pet embarks on their own well-deserved break.
Dogue
Like the fashion magazine its name hints at, this exclusive country retreat for man’s best friend is all about luxury. Small to medium-sized dogs are allowed to roam free across 100 acres in the heart of the Southern Highlands, set amongst rolling vineyards, cattle pastures and beautiful countryside.
The living area is as luxe as it gets, featuring 14 sleeping suites, comfortable couches, TVs, stereos and meditation, massage and quiet room.
Your lucky pooch will get the royal treatment with all-day pampering and relaxation. During the day, they can take a dip in the pool, get spoiled at the spa, take a trip to the groomer and enjoy one-on-one playtime with human carers.
After supper, it’s time for bedtime stories, cuddles, a massage and aromatherapy for a good night’s sleep.
Rivalling any human wellness retreat, every dog’s wellbeing is nurtured with yoga and meditation, daily health checks, nutritional and wellness consultations, naturopathy treatments, weight loss programs, and boot camps. Pooches will never go hungry with a range of gourmet nibbles to suit any doggy diet, from organic raw meats and seasonal pureed vegetables to premium kibble fashioned from natural ingredients.
Akuna Pet Resorts
Parting with your feline or canine buddy is made a little easier with Akuna Pet Resorts’ chauffeur service, where your pets are picked up right at your door in an air-conditioned Mercedes van. You’ll know your furry friend is in good hands as they are transported to a Hunter Valley resort that’s everything doggy and kitty dreams are made of.
It boasts the only Water Fun Park in Australia made for dogs, consisting of a swimming pool, splash park and plenty of toys.
You can even watch your best friend splashing around with a daily video sent by the resort. Pooches are free to run around in the grassy yard or chill out in their spacious, climate-controlled rooms, complete with calming tunes, trampoline bed, and a soft polar fleece blanket. They’ll also be treated to bush walks and a trip to the dam.
Feline guests will feel like they’ve never left home with a living-room style cattery furnished with a TV and carpet. Cats can soak up the sun in the courtyard or nap to their heart’s content in their private four-level accommodation units.
Spoilt Rotten Dogs
It’s in the name: pups at this Lilyfield dog hotel live in the lap of luxury. Facilities include a flat-screen TV playing dog-themed movies, plenty of sofas to lounge on, plush toys, a splash pool, and sandpits.
Your cuddly companions can indulge in the finer things in life with a wash and blow dry using organic shampoo and conditioner, as well as daily walks and brushing. Dogs big or small can play and make friends with the other guests.
By Jennifer Luu