Pet Boarding in London: what to know
London's pet owners juggle flats, long commutes and busy diaries — from Zone 1 mansion blocks in Chelsea and Kensington to family streets in Clapham, Fulham and Wimbledon. A trusted local provider makes weekday walks, holiday cover and vet trips far easier.
Many Londoners live in flats with shared entrances and tenancy pet clauses. Share access instructions, key arrangements and any building rules with your provider.
Heat and weather in London
London's weather is mild but changeable: wet winters, muddy parks and the occasional summer heatwave. On hot days walk early or late and carry water; in winter, dry and check paws after muddy walks.
Ask how the host keeps pets cool during the day, where your pet will sleep, and how outdoor time is handled in summer. Pack familiar bedding and enough food for the whole stay.
Planning around the seasons in London
Stays around school holidays and Christmas are the first to book up, so plan ahead and try a single night first if your pet hasn't boarded before. During summer heatwaves, ask how outdoor time is scheduled.
Before you book
Hosts can offer extras such as daily photo updates, pick-up and drop-off, special food, medication or extra play time — shown before you book.
Keep your dog's microchip details and vaccination records up to date.
OnlyPaw is available worldwide. Availability in London depends on how many boarding hosts have been approved near you — the app shows who's available before you book.
Pet Boarding in London — FAQ
Is pet boarding available in London?
OnlyPaw is available worldwide. Availability in London depends on how many boarding hosts have been approved near you — the app shows who's available before you book.
How much does pet boarding cost in London?
Boarding hosts in London set their own prices in GBP, so you see each provider's rate before you book. At checkout OnlyPaw adds a service fee of 10% of the service price, with a minimum of USD 2 and a maximum of USD 20 (or the equivalent in your local currency), shown before you pay. Your payment is held and only released to the provider after the service is completed.
How are boarding hosts in London vetted?
Every boarding host in London must submit a government ID, a selfie and photos of the home or boarding area, and pass a pet-safety knowledge test with a 70% pass mark. The OnlyPaw team reviews each application — and each additional service — before it goes live.
What should I pack for my pet's boarding stay in London?
Enough of your pet's usual food for every night plus a spare day, any medication with written instructions, a lead and collar with ID, familiar bedding or a toy, and your vet's contact details. Add everything to the booking notes too.
What if I need to cancel?
One cancellation rule applies to every booking: you get a full refund (including the OnlyPaw service fee) if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start, and no refund after that. If the provider cancels, you always get a full refund.
What happens in an emergency?
Every active booking has an SOS button in the app. It alerts the other party and the OnlyPaw team straight away. If your pet needs urgent medical care, contact a vet or emergency clinic first.
