Do boarding facilities offer special activities or services during holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving?

For many pet owners, the holiday season brings travel plans that necessitate boarding their dogs or cats. A common and important question is whether boarding facilities offer special activities or services during peak periods like Christmas or Thanksgiving. The answer is a definitive yes. Reputable boarding kennels and pet hotels recognize that holidays are a special time and often design enhanced programs to provide extra comfort, engagement, and festive cheer for their furry guests, while also giving peace of mind to owners.

Common Holiday Services and Activities

While offerings vary by facility, many go above and beyond standard care during the holidays. These services are designed to combat pet loneliness and boredom when families are away, making the stay more enjoyable.

Festive Decor and Atmosphere: Many facilities decorate their common areas, play gentle holiday music, and create a celebratory environment to shift away from a sterile, institutional feel.
Special Holiday Menus & Treats: It is not uncommon for facilities to offer safe, pet-friendly versions of holiday treats, like pumpkin-filled Kongs for dogs or a special "Thanksgiving dinner" meal. Always confirm any dietary changes with staff first.
Enhanced Activity Schedules: Extra play sessions, group playtimes (for compatible dogs), and one-on-one cuddle time are frequently added to the daily roster to ensure pets receive more attention and stimulation.
Holiday-Themed Play and Enrichment: Activities may include playing with festive-themed toys, "search" games for treats wrapped in holiday paper (under supervision), or seasonal agility courses.
Photo and Video Updates: A highly valued service, many facilities provide owners with photos or short videos of their pet enjoying holiday activities, often shared via email or a dedicated app. This direct connection greatly alleviates owner anxiety.

Considerations for Pet Owners

To ensure your pet benefits from these special offerings, proactive planning and communication are essential.

Book Early

Holidays are the busiest times for boarding facilities. Industry data consistently shows that kennels reach full capacity weeks, and sometimes months, in advance of major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving. Early reservation is the single most important step to securing a spot.

Communicate Clearly During Reservation

When booking, explicitly ask about any special holiday programs, associated costs, and what is included in the standard rate. Inquire about:

The daily schedule of activities.
Staffing levels during the holiday (to ensure adequate attention).
Protocol for pets that may be stressed by extra activity or noise.
How they handle special dietary requests or treats.

Prepare Your Pet

If your pet is not a regular boarder, consider a shorter overnight stay or daycare visit beforehand to acclimate them to the environment. Provide the facility with detailed care instructions, your veterinarian's contact information, and familiar items from home, like a blanket or toy, to provide comfort.

The Bottom Line

Quality boarding facilities understand that the holidays are an emotionally charged time for both pets and owners. By offering special activities, enhanced services, and festive touches, they aim to provide a positive experience that reduces stress for all. As a pet owner, your role is to research facilities, book early, and have detailed conversations about your pet's needs and the specific holiday services available. This partnership ensures your dog or cat is not just cared for, but is happily engaged while you are celebrating the season.