The Heart Behind the Care
We know pets are more than just animals — they are cherished members of the family. That's why we created a boarding experience centred around care, comfort, and truly understanding each guest as an individual. Every dog and cat has their own personality, routines, and preferences, and we take the time to ensure they receive the attention and care they need to feel relaxed and at ease during their stay.
Owners Craig and Vanessa bring with them years of experience in the pet care industry, having previously owned and operated a highly regarded pet retreat in Western Australia before relocating back home to Queensland. Throughout that journey, their passion for providing exceptional care continued to grow, along with a desire to create something a little different.
While we love dogs of all shapes and sizes, we wanted to create a more intimate boarding experience — one with smaller guest numbers, a calmer environment, and a dedicated space where smaller companions could feel confident, comfortable, and truly at home. A place where we could provide the level of care, attention, and service that we would want for our own pets.
Our own Shih Tzus are also very much part of the day-to-day life here, happily taking on the role of unofficial welcome committee. With their friendly personalities and curious nature, they love checking in on our guests, making new friends, and adding a little extra warmth to the environment.
Our purpose is simple: to provide a safe and enjoyable home away from home where pets can relax, play, and be themselves. With thoughtfully designed spaces, personalised routines, and a team who genuinely cares, we strive to make every stay a positive experience for both pets and their families.
Who We’re Here For
Small Paws & Whiskers was created with smaller companions in mind. We specialise in caring for small to small-medium sized dogs (typically up to 12kg) and cats, offering a more intimate boarding experience where guests can enjoy a calmer environment, personalised attention, and accommodation designed around their individual needs.
We understand that smaller pets can have just as many unique personalities, preferences, and routines as their larger counterparts. Some are confident social butterflies who love meeting new friends, while others prefer a quieter space where they can relax and settle in at their own pace. By keeping our guest numbers smaller, we’re able to create a more peaceful environment and provide a level of care that is tailored to each individual pet.
We also understand that some breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, Moyen Poodles, French Bulldogs, and similar-sized dogs, may sit around the edge of our usual size guideline. If you’re unsure whether Small Paws is the right fit for your pet, we’d love to hear from you. Simply submit a booking request form and our team will be happy to discuss the most suitable accommodation option for your companion.
