Last updated: 23 Oct 2026

Christmas boarding checklist (Melbourne, 2026)

Christmas is the busiest time of year for Melbourne kennels and catteries. As of 23 October 2026, at least two providers we checked already say their dog accommodation is fully booked — see the Christmas 2026 availability tracker.

1. Check vaccinations now, not in December

• Most providers require C5 for dogs and F3 for cats, current for the whole stay. (Pet Resorts Australia terms, Kip)
• Several require the vaccine to be given at least 2 weeks before arrival (Hanrob, Sophisticat) or 10 days before (Kip, All 4 Paws and Claws).
• Hanrob also requires an annual canine cough vaccination. (source)
• If your pet's vaccination has lapsed, some kennels need two doses a month apart before boarding. (Cottage Kennels, Pet Resorts Australia)

2. Expect a minimum stay

Published Christmas minimums range from 7 to 14 days among the providers we checked — for example 7 days at Pet Resorts Australia, 10 at Hallam Park and Dogs Country Club, 14 at Cottage Kennels. Short stays are often charged as the full minimum.

3. Budget for a non-refundable deposit

Published Christmas deposits include $100 (Kepala, Cottage Kennels), $200 (Sparrows; Dogs Country Club Premium), 25% (Pet Resorts Australia) and 50% (Hallam Park, Sophisticat). Most are non-refundable. Details and sources are on each provider page.

4. Check closure days

Many kennels close or run short hours on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day. Plan drop-off and pick-up around them, e.g. Hallam Park reopens for limited hours on 3 January 2027. See which kennels are open for check-in over Christmas and New Year, including the extra public holiday on Monday 28 December.

5. Trial stays and new clients

Some kennels require a trial stay for certain breeds or new dogs, and only run trials off-peak — so a first-time Christmas booking may not be possible. (Cottage Kennels)

6. Have a plan B

If kennels near you are full, consider a pet sitter — see pet sitters. Booking in Sydney? See the Sydney Christmas 2026 tracker.

Availability changes daily. Always confirm directly with the provider.