The RSPCA Isle of Wight is doubling the number of its boarding kennels in response to a significant rise in demand for pet boarding on the Island.
The charity operates Bohemia Boarding, a thriving commercial boarding service based at the Isle of Wight RSPCA Animal Centre between Rookley and Godshill. The experienced team currently cares for up to 12 dogs and 30 cats while their owners are away.
With the existing kennels frequently fully booked, the RSPCA is preparing to open an additional 12 kennels for boarding customers. The expansion will also create two new jobs at the centre.
Branch Director, Steve Backhouse, said:
“Our boarding kennels have been in high demand throughout the autumn. With other boarding facilities on the Island closing, many customers have been looking for somewhere they can trust to look after their pets while they are away. These extra kennels will be a real bonus for anyone struggling to find boarding space, and they will help us continue our vital charity work.”
Although Bohemia Boarding operates as a commercial business, all profits directly support the RSPCA’s animal welfare work on the Isle of Wight. The branch is an independent charity affiliated with the national RSPCA and must raise £750,000 each year to keep its centre running. With less than 10% of its income coming from the national charity, local fundraising, charity shops, and income from Bohemia Boarding are essential to sustaining its services.
Steve added:
“Many customers choose Bohemia Boarding because they know their pets will be cared for by our dedicated RSPCA team. As an added bonus, their booking helps support a great cause—protecting Island animals, particularly those suffering from cruelty or neglect. The new kennels are already booking up quickly, so we encourage everyone to reserve early.”
