Frequently Asked Questions

We're located at Johns River on the beautiful Mid North Coast of NSW, offering a peaceful rural setting with plenty of room for dogs to run, play and relax.

We're right on the Pacific Highway, so drop off and pick up is an easy stop whether you're heading north or south.

Yes. We can collect your dog from home anywhere within 50km of the farm at Johns River. Home pick up is $40 and you can add it when you make your booking. We don't offer a home drop off — collection is from the farm.

Transfers are coordinated around our schedule at the farm, so we'll ring you to lock in a time window before your dog's stay. If you'd rather drop in yourself, we're right on the Pacific Highway and easy to find.

We're not a traditional boarding kennel. Our guests sleep in clean kennels at night, all tucked up in bed at the same time, settling in on comfortable beds and waking up nice and early to enjoy their mornings running free with their friends.

During the day they enjoy large secure paddocks, supervised play, personalised care and a genuine country holiday where they're treated like part of the family.

Yes, if they're comfortable doing so.

Dogs are carefully introduced based on their size, temperament and play style. We supervise all interactions to help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

If your dog prefers their own space, we'll tailor their stay accordingly.

Plenty!

Every day includes supervised play, farm adventures, enrichment activities and lots of opportunities to run, explore and enjoy the fresh country air.

Please bring:

• Your dog's food if you have optioned that on their booking
• Any medication with clear instructions
• A lead and collar or harness
• Any comfort item you'd like them to have

We'll provide plenty of love, attention and comfortable resting areas.

We sure do, we have raised our dogs on a full organic diet, no additives or fillers just vegetables, protein and yummy snacks. When you book you simply choose whether you'll bring your own food or would like us to provide it — and if they're on a dry diet we can accommodate that too.

For the safety of all guests, dogs must be up to date with their vaccinations and be in good health before attending Big Dog Farm Stay.

Proof of vaccination is part of your booking, if your not able to provide a copy of your dogs vaccination record unfortunately they are not able to stay with us, this is to protect our other visitors.

Please contact us to discuss your dog's age, breed and circumstances before booking.

Yes.

We love puppies and will ensure they receive appropriate supervision, rest and positive social experiences suited to their age. We are retired labrador breeders and know that sometimes you have to have someone look after your puppy, as long as all vaccinations are up to date we are happy to have them.

We're happy to administer medication according to your written instructions at no additional charge.

If your dog requires veterinary attention, we'll contact you immediately wherever possible.

In an emergency, we'll seek veterinary treatment to ensure your dog receives prompt care.

Absolutely.

We know how much you'll miss your dog, so we'll share photos and updates during their stay whenever possible. We post our updates on our socials and you can follow along their daily when they stay.

Yes.

We encourage prospective customers to arrange a meet and greet so both you and your dog can become familiar with the farm before their stay. Any inspections need to be scheduled so the time works for us as well.

Our drop-off and collection times are designed to ensure a calm and enjoyable experience for all guests. When making your booking you will be asked to indicate the time for pick up.

We're located directly on the Pacific Highway at Johns River, which makes arrival and collection a simple stop on your trip. If you'd prefer, we also offer home pick up within 50km for $40.

Please refer to our Cancellation Policy or contact us as soon as possible and we'll do our best to help.

We understand every dog is different.

Please let us know about any medical conditions, dietary requirements, anxiety, routines or preferences before arrival so we can provide the best possible care.

Yes.

Our guest areas are securely fenced to provide a safe environment while allowing dogs plenty of space to enjoy their farm holiday.

Simply click Book Now, complete the enquiry form and we'll contact you to confirm availability and answer any questions.