Frequently asked questions
We know leaving your pet in someone else's care is a big decision, and it's natural to have questions. We've put together answers to some of the most common enquiries about boarding at Small Paws & Whiskers, from vaccinations and bookings to what to bring and what your pet can expect during their stay. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, we'd love to hear from you. Please don't hesitate to get in touch—our team is always happy to help.
What makes Small Paws & Whiskers different?
We're a family-run boutique pet retreat designed specifically for small and small-medium breed dogs. By catering to smaller companions, we can provide a calm, safe environment with accommodation and play spaces suited to their size and personalities.
Where are you located?
We are conveniently located in Oakey just outside of Toowoomba, Queensland, offering a peaceful countryside setting while remaining easily accessible for local families within the Darling Downs and surrounding areas.
Can I visit before booking?
Absolutely. We encourage families to book a tour so you can meet us, view our facilities and ask any questions before your dog's stay. Tours are by appointment on selected weekdays.
How do I make a booking?
Bookings can be requested through our website or by contacting us directly. During peak periods, we recommend booking well in advance to avoid disappointment.
What vaccinations does my dog need?
The health and wellbeing of every guest is our highest priority. For this reason, all dogs staying at Small Paws & Whiskers must have a current C5 vaccination.
Where a dog's vaccination has expired (more than 12 months since their previous C5 vaccination), a booster must be administered no less than 14 days before their scheduled arrival.
A valid vaccination certificate must be provided prior to, or at, check-in before your dog can be admitted to our care.
Does my Dog need Flea, Tick & Worm Prevention?
To help keep all of our guests healthy and comfortable, all dogs must have received effective flea and intestinal worm prevention within one month prior to check-in.
As we are located in a known paralysis tick area, effective tick prevention is also required prior to check-in.
If a dog is found to have fleas, worms or ticks during their stay, appropriate treatment will be administered promptly to protect the health and wellbeing of all animals in our care. Any associated treatment costs will be the responsibility of the owner.
Can my Dog socialise?
Absolutely! With your consent, we believe supervised social interaction with carefully matched playmates can provide wonderful enrichment, physical exercise and mental stimulation during your dog's stay.
Every dog is assessed individually, and group play is only offered to compatible dogs based on their size, temperament and play style. Safety and comfort are always our top priorities.
If you would prefer your dog not to socialise with other guests, simply let us know. They'll still enjoy plenty of one-on-one attention, enrichment and exercise tailored to their individual needs.
What do I need to bring for my pet's stay?
Nothing at all! We provide everything your pet needs for a comfortable stay, including bedding, bowls, and food. All you need to bring is your pet (and their current vaccination records, if we don't already have these on file).
What vaccinations does my Cat need?
To help keep all of our feline guests healthy and safe, every cat must have a current F3 vaccination before checking in.
If your cat's vaccination has lapsed (more than 12 months since their previous F3 vaccination), they must receive a new F3 vaccination at least 14 days prior to their check-in date.
A current vaccination certificate must be provided and sighted by a member of the Small Paws & Whiskers team before your cat is admitted to our care.
Does my Cat need Flea, Tick & Worm Prevention?
To help keep all of our feline guests healthy and comfortable, all cats must have received effective flea and intestinal worm prevention within one month prior to check-in.
As we are located in a known paralysis tick area, effective tick prevention is also required prior to check-in.
If a cat is found to have fleas, worms or ticks during their stay, appropriate treatment will be administered promptly to protect the health and wellbeing of all animals in our care. Any associated treatment costs will be the responsibility of the owner.
Do the Cats socialise?
Cats are kept separate to avoid potential disagreements and passing on disease (Such as FIV). All cats however will get plenty of one on one time and attention.
What happens if my pet becomes unwell?
Your pet's health and wellbeing are our highest priority. If your pet becomes unwell during their stay, we will assess the situation and contact you (or your nominated emergency contact) as soon as possible.
If veterinary treatment is required, we will arrange prompt care through our nominated veterinary clinic or, where practical, your regular veterinarian. Any veterinary expenses incurred during your pet's stay will be the responsibility of the owner.
We'll keep you informed every step of the way, so you can have peace of mind knowing your pet is receiving the care they need.
Is someone onsite overnight?
Yes. For your peace of mind, the business owners live onsite. Having us onsite also allows us to regularly monitor our guests and respond promptly if required.