School’s out, the bags are packed, and you’re ready to head off on a much-needed holiday. The passports and tickets are ready, and new clothes have been bought. Everything seems in place, and nothing appears to have been forgotten.
Hang on a minute, though… what about the pets? Unless they are going with you, and this is rather unlikely given the extra stress that would involve, what are they going to do? Stay in Bahrain, of course, but not home alone. We outline a few of the options available to make sure that every member of the family, including the four-legged type, has a holiday to remember.
Delmon Boarding Kennels
In Barbar, on the north west of the island, are the Delmon Boarding Kennels, which have been catering to Bahrain’s cats and dogs for just over six years. The facility covers an area of 9,000 sq m, with plenty of room where your pet can rest and relax. All dog kennels are amply supported by air conditioners, with heavy duty fans providing additional cooling support. The cattery is maintained at a constant 24°C, with intake and exhaust fans providing an airy and cool environment.
For canines needing a little extra help with their holiday homework, that can be accommodated too, whether it be training, socialisation or treadmill classes. Or if that sounds like too much hard work for your pooch, he or she may prefer to take a mud bath or go for a supervised session in the hydrotherapy pool – we’re serious too. ‘The mud bath will improve the condition of the dog’s coat and improve mobility in older dogs due to the warming effect of the mud,’ an attendant informs us. ‘Hydrotherapy is also excellent for the veterans as it allows gentle physical exercise without putting unnecessary pressure on the joints.’
Barbar (17 694 066). Main office open Sat-Thu 8am-noon, 3pm-6pm; Fri closed. Dogs BD8 per day, cats BD4.5 per day
Saar Kennels
At the Saar Kennels, your dog or cat is welcome to spend its holiday whether it’s a long weekend or a more extended period of time. The grounds of this establishment are lush green, and the cattery has individual units – all of which look out onto the beautiful garden and its several vibrantly colored bougainvilleas. Dogs are also well catered to with their own playground area, and the staff here are very experienced and able to handle your dog’s quirks, whether it’s aggression or timid behavior. We’ve also been told that the food here is very good. At the end of its stay, your dog will be returned to you in tip-top condition, with grooming services available upon request.
Saar (17 792 064). Main office open 9am-6pm daily. Dogs BD4-5 (depends on size), cats BD3.5
Pet Arabia
Whilst it’s not a boarding facility, Pet Arabia in Abu Sayba just off the Budaiya Highway is well worth a visit. Housed in a delightful little villa, this store has all that you could possibly need to take care of your
pet, especially your cat or dog. A vast array of high-quality pet grooming services and supplies, pet medicine and pet food are to be had. You may wish to buy your dog a holiday treat and indulge him or her with toys for the swimming pool, created especially for them.
If your pet needs its looks taken care of, then on-site pet grooming services are provided. Pet Arabia’s preening department will look after everything from your dog’s nails, to providing a full dental service as well as washing and fur trimming. Furthermore this company prides itself on the carefully chosen pet food products on offer in the store. All foods are selected to offer your animal a well-balanced diet, with provisions that are highly nutritious as well as easily digestible.
Abu Sayba (17 592 288). Open Sat-Thu 9am-7pm; Fri 9am-6pm. Dog grooming from BD15.
