Business Details
44 Years
experience
Trusted Pet Boarding & Grooming in Darlington
Established in 1982, Sadberge Boarding Kennels & Cattery has built a reputation for exceptional pet care across Darlington and County Durham. Our DEFRA 5* rated facility offers tailored boarding solutions for dogs, cats, and small animals, with 5 acres of secure exercise areas and purpose-built accommodations. Under the leadership of Director Rachael Sutcliffe, our team of experienced professionals prioritises individualised attention, ensuring pets receive a 'holiday camp' experience.We maintain rigorous standards in hygiene, safety, and animal welfare, evidenced by our long-standing reputation and positive client testimonials. Our services extend to dog grooming, medication administration, and pet transportation, supported by transparent communication with owners through photo updates and dedicated consultations. This commitment to excellence has fostered enduring client relationships, with many customers returning year after year.
Services
Boarding Kennels
Day Boarding
Dog Grooming
Cattery
Small Animals
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We hold DEFRA 5* accreditation for animal welfare standards
- Family-run business operating since 1982 with generational expertise
- Personalised care plans tailored to each pet's specific needs
- Secure 5-acre grounds with separate exercise zones for different animal types
- Positive client testimonials highlighting staff dedication and pet wellbeing
Associations and certifications
- DEFRA 5* rated
What people say
Staff are amazing
Well looked after
Highly recommend
Loved by pets
Excellent care
Services
Boarding Kennels
Our DEFRA 5* rated kennels provide secure, spacious accommodations for dogs of all sizes. Each unit features indoor-outdoor access, climate control, and individual exercise schedules. Pets receive four daily exercise sessions across 5 acres of secure grounds, with optional medication administration and dietary customisation. This service ensures dogs experience a 'holiday camp' environment with dedicated staff attention.
Day Boarding
Our daytime creche offers structured care with two daily exercise sessions, enrichment activities, and individual kennel access. Dogs receive personalised attention through scent work, treat dispensing, and supervised play. The non-contracted service operates six days weekly, accommodating 15 spaces with separate exercise zones to prevent cross-contact between animals.
Dog Grooming
Professional grooming services include breed-specific styling, bathing, and nail care by certified groomer Rachael. The salon offers pre-departure pampering for boarding dogs and appointments for external clients. Services range from basic hygiene maintenance to full breed-standard grooming, with pricing determined by coat condition and complexity.
Cattery
Our purpose-built cattery provides multi-level units with cat furniture and covered exercise runs. Each accommodation includes daily enrichment activities and health monitoring. The separated blocks cater to different feline temperaments, with climate-controlled environments and species-specific dietary provisions. Owners may supply special dietary requirements or personal items for familiarity.
Small Animals
Specialised boarding for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, and birds features secure hutches with daily enrichment. The facility provides species-appropriate nutrition and health monitoring, with separate housing to prevent cross-species stress. Owners may supply personal cages for added comfort, while staff ensure appropriate environmental conditions and dietary needs are maintained.
People
Rachael Sutcliffe
Director
Rachael Sutcliffe leads Sadberge Boarding Kennels & Cattery following its transition to a limited company after Les Elder's passing. With extensive industry experience, she oversees daily operations, maintains DEFRA standards, and provides professional dog grooming services. Her leadership continues the business's legacy of excellence since 1982.
Questions
What pet species do you accommodate?
We board dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, and birds. Reptiles are not accepted. All accommodations meet DEFRA 5* standards with species-specific care.
How can I view the facilities before booking?
Appointments are available for facility tours to meet staff and inspect accommodations. This allows personalised discussions about your pet's specific needs and our care protocols.
Do you administer medication?
Yes, we provide medication administration including insulin injections at no extra charge. Non-prescribed treatments like joint supplements require owner-supplied quantities.
What identification is required for cats?
From June 2024, all cats over 20 weeks require microchipping. Please ensure this documentation accompanies your pet's records when booking their stay.
Are transportation services available?
We offer pet collection and drop-off within County Durham, including Darlington and surrounding areas. Pricing is per journey regardless of pet quantity.
