How do I get updates during my pet's stay?

We regularly upload photos to our Facebook page during your pet’s stay.

If you’d like individual updates, feel free to email us at elitebunnyretreat@gmail.com and we will respond during our office hours:
📅 Mon - Fri: 8 am - 6 pm
📅 Sat: 10 am - 12 pm

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My pet is a fussy eater. What do you feed them?

Our guests have constant access to a generous supply of fresh hay, which is checked and replenished at least twice daily. We also provide a variety of fresh greens (including veggies, foraged leafy greens, herbs, and grass) twice a day. As a special treat, they may receive a small amount of apple or carrot.

We feed a small amount of Burgess pellets, which are sprinkled onto their hay or placed in treat puzzles to encourage natural foraging behaviour. If your pet is on a different pellet brand, we recommend bringing their own supply to avoid tummy upsets.

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Does my rabbit have to be vaccinated?  

Yes. To ensure the health and safety of all our bunny boarders, proof of an up-to-date annual calicivirus vaccination is required. This applies to rabbits only—no vaccinations are required for guinea pigs.

📌 Important: If a valid vaccination record has not been uploaded to your client portal before arrival, you will be turned away.

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What do I need to bring with my pet?   

We provide everything your pet needs for a comfortable stay. However, you’re welcome to bring familiar items from home.

💡 Please note:

• We do not launder bedding, so please bring only items that won’t require washing.

• Ensure all belongings are clearly labelled to prevent mix-ups during cleaning.

• We use Burgess dry food for our bunnies. If your pet eats a different brand, please bring a supply to avoid digestive issues.

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Do our pets mix with other guests?  

No, never. Each guest has their own individual run. However, runs are positioned near one another so pets can enjoy the company of others from a safe distance.

If your pet prefers not to see other animals, we can cover the sides of their enclosure. Please let us know when you book so we can arrange this before your arrival.

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Can I board my rabbit or guinea pig if they are not desexed?   

Yes, desexing is not required for boarding, as guests do not come into direct contact with each other.

However, we strongly recommend desexing for health, behavioural, and welfare reasons—and to prevent accidental litters.

📌 Note for Entire Males: Due to natural behaviours such as spraying and increased odour, a 15% surcharge per day applies. Their enclosure sides may also be covered to maintain a clean and comfortable environment for all guests.

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What happens if my rabbit gets sick while I am away? 

We treat every guest as if they were our own. If your pet has any ongoing or historical health conditions, please inform us in advance so we can monitor them appropriately.

Despite the best care, pets can occasionally fall ill. If this happens:

• We will attempt to contact you first, then your emergency contact.

• If urgent medical care is required, we may need to take your pet to a vet immediately.

• Our preferred rabbit-savvy vet is Brendon at Kelburn Vets, but we will attempt to visit your registered vet if feasible.

💰 Payment for vet care: You will need to arrange payment directly with the vet, including after-hours services if necessary.

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What if I want to pick up / drop off outside your hours?  

All out-of-hours pick-ups or drop-offs will incur an additional charge. 

As we live on-site we will try to work our schedule to fit in with you as much as we can, but do appreciate that you also please respect our privacy and family time and do not turn up outside your booked time.

(Please note check-in/check-outs are strictly not possible between the hours of 10 am Saturday to 4 pm Sunday and from 8 pm to 7 am every day)

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What if I need to cancel my booking? 

We understand that plans can change, but as a small facility with limited space, we often turn away clients when we are full, as such the following cancellation policy applies;

📅 Cancellation Policy:

• Peak periods (Christmas/Easter): 14+ days’ notice required. Cancellations within this window will be charged up to 50% of the booking fee.

• All other times: 48+ hours’ notice required.

If we can fill your spot, we will waive the cancellation fee.

💡 Once your booking has started: If you drop off later or pick up earlier than your booked dates, there are no refunds, credits, or transfers for unused days.