Summer is coming, and with it the usual question: who's looking after the dog? This guide helps you decide early, choose well and make sure your dog arrives relaxed.
Book earlier than you think
Google searches for a dog hotel or daycare in Chile double between December and January: in January 2026 there were more than 10,000, against about 4,600 in August. Holiday and February places go early.
If it's your dog's first time in a hotel, add the time to get to know each other: at The Place's new dogs first come to a meet-and-greet.
Hotel, sitter or family: how to decide
- Hotel: supervision all day, other dogs to play with and, if it has one, a vet nearby. Good for sociable dogs and long stays.
- Home sitter: your dog stays at home with one person. It can suit older dogs or dogs very attached to their space.
- Family or friends: the closest option, if they really have the time and space to look after it.
What to check before choosing a hotel
- Where it spends the day and where it sleeps.
- Shade and water for hot days.
- Who looks after it and how often they update you.
- Which vet sees it if something happens.
- What they require: a first meeting, vaccines, spay/neuter.
- Whether the price includes VAT and what it includes.
How to prepare your dog
- Do the meet-and-greet or visit early, not the week you travel.
- Make sure its vaccines are up to date.
- Don't change its food right before you leave.
- Write down its routine, medication and anything that makes it nervous.
What to bring on day one
Every hotel has its own rules, so check first. In general it helps to bring:
- Its usual food, so its diet doesn't change.
- Its medication, with written instructions.
- Its vaccination record.
- Your phone number and your vet's.
- If you like, a blanket or toy that smells of home.
At The Place's we confirm what to bring at the meet-and-greet.
If you choose The Place's
Your dog spends the day loose in a pack on natural grass, with shade, and sleeps indoors with beds and blankets. We send you photos and videos during the stay, the same person always looks after it and there is a vet on site. We're in Chicureo, about 25 minutes from Santiago airport without traffic: you can drop your dog off on the way to your flight.
Frequently asked questions
1.How early should I book for December or February?
As early as you can. If it's your dog's first time with us, we need to meet it first at a meet-and-greet, so get in touch early.
2.Can I book a last-minute stay?
If your dog has stayed with us before, yes, subject to availability. If it's their first time, we need to meet them first: if we can fit in the meeting and all goes well, they can stay.
3.What if my dog gets sick during the stay?
There is a vet right on site, and if anything happens, however small, we let you know straight away.