Business Details
Your Trusted Pet Care Provider in Wallingford
Established over 30 years ago in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, Avalonkennels has been a trusted name in pet care since 2000, operating as a family-run business. Our proprietors, Gavin and Sara Robertson, are internationally recognised judges and exhibitors, bringing unparalleled expertise to our services. We pride ourselves on providing a safe, welcoming environment for pets, offering boarding, grooming, and retail services, all underpinned by our recent five-star licensing achievement. Our teams dedication to animal welfare is evident in our meticulous attention to detail, from tailored feeding regimes to secure outdoor access for dogs. With a strong reputation built on repeat bookings, veterinary referrals, and personal recommendations, we ensure every pet receives individualised care.Our facilities include modern kennels with underfloor heating, a dedicated grooming suite, and a comprehensive retail shop stocking premium pet products. We also offer convenient collection and delivery services, accommodating last-minute bookings and schedule adjustments. Our commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction has made us a preferred choice for pet owners across the region. Regular investments in facility upgrades and staff training ensure we maintain the highest standards of care. This dedication is reflected in the heartfelt testimonials from our loyal clientele, who consistently highlight our reliability and compassion.
Services
Pet Boarding
Grooming Services
Retail Shop
Dog Walking
Vaccination Checks
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of combined experience in professional pet care.
- Our family-run business prioritises individualised attention and animal welfare.
- We hold a five-star licensing rating for our boarding facilities.
- Our proprietors are internationally recognised judges and exhibitors.
- We provide reliable collection and delivery services for pet owners.
Associations and certifications
- Pet Industry Federation
What people say
Extremely well cared for
Friendly and courteous staff
Peace of mind
Spacious kennels
Reliable collection service
Services
Pet Boarding
Our five-star licensed boarding facilities provide secure, comfortable accommodation for dogs and cats. Each kennel features underfloor heating and spacious outdoor access. Pets receive three daily exercise sessions and tailored care, including medication administration. Regular inspections ensure ongoing compliance with the highest welfare standards.
Grooming Services
Professional grooming for all dog and cat breeds in a dedicated, well-equipped studio. Services include coat trimming, bathing, nail clipping, and ear cleaning. Our experienced groomers handle nervous or difficult pets with patience. Hand stripping and breed-specific trims are available, ensuring optimal coat condition and pet comfort.
Retail Shop
A comprehensive retail outlet offering premium pet foods, treats, toys, and accessories. We stock Burns and our own Avalon super-premium dog food range, including specialist formulas. Grooming equipment and walking essentials are available. Special orders can be placed for out-of-stock items, ensuring customers find exactly what they need.
Dog Walking
Individual or paired 30-minute countryside walks for boarded dogs, subject to availability. Walks use flexi-leads for controlled exploration. Weather-dependent service excludes Christmas period. This add-on service ensures pets remain active and engaged during their stay, with options for nervous dogs requiring extra care.
Vaccination Checks
Mandatory vaccination verification for boarding dogs, including kennel cough protection. Proof of up-to-date vaccinations must be provided prior to admission. We collaborate with Larkmead Vets to ensure health standards are maintained. Non-compliant pets cannot be accommodated, safeguarding all animals in our care.
People
Gavin Robertson
Proprietor
Internationally recognised judge and exhibitor with 25+ years of professional grooming experience. Oversees daily operations and maintains high care standards at Avalonkennels.
Sara Robertson
Proprietor
Co-owner with extensive expertise in pet care and breeding. Manages facility licensing compliance and contributes to the business's five-star rated services.
Questions
What vaccinations are required for boarding?
Dogs must have up-to-date core vaccinations plus kennel cough protection administered two weeks prior to arrival. Proof is required before admission.
Do you offer collection and delivery services?
Yes, we provide reliable pet transport with flexible scheduling. This service is particularly valued by customers from Wokingham and surrounding areas.
Are grooming appointments available for non-boarding pets?
Yes, our grooming services are open to all clients. However, appointments fill quickly due to high demand for Gavin Robertson's expertise.
What pet food brands do you stock?
We offer Burns and our own Avalon super-premium dog food range, including specialist formulas for sensitive skin, senior dogs, and weight management.
Can I visit the facilities before booking?
Visits are by appointment only. Contact us to arrange a tour of our five-star licensed kennels and cattery in Wallingford.
How do you handle pets with special dietary needs?
We accommodate specific feeding regimes, including portion control and medication administration. Details are recorded during check-in for consistent care.
Reviews (4)
Jilly Carter
Aug 04, 2020
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My cat Lottie has always been well looked-after at Avalon in their cat hotel. Staff are professional and attentive, and send me regular photos of her while I’m on holiday. I would highly recommend this cattery!
Deborah Anne
May 25, 2019
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They are organised and very professional. I felt at ease leaving my special 2 fur babies with them in a kennel for the first time.
Louise Tod
Apr 13, 2019
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I wouldn’t recommend for grooming! After requesting a natural cut for my golden and explaining I don’t like him to look ‘groomed’ he was chopped all over. His feathers and skirt have all been taken off and he looks like a fluffy lab. It makes me quite upset each time I look at him! 😞
Kathryn Ellis
Mar 17, 2019
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We have been using Avalon kennels for many years. We travel from Northamptonshire and wouldn’t dream of going anywhere else - our 3 doggies all trot off quite happily when left at reception. The modern and clean facilities are very impressive and it’s good to know that they are well cared for by genuine animal loving people. I would recommend Avalon for anyone who wants the best for their doggies.
