Choosing the right doggie daycare and boarding facility is an important decision for any pet parent. Your furry family member deserves a safe, happy, and comfortable environment where they can play, relax, and be cared for by loving professionals. To help you make the best choice, we’ve put together 12 Must-Know Tips for Choosing the Perfect Doggie Daycare and Boarding Facility. From safety measures to staff qualifications, this guide covers everything you need to know to ensure your pup has the best experience possible.
Does the facility have a Meet & Greet process?
Yes, we have a welcoming Meet & Greet process for all new pups. We understand that a new place, unfamiliar people, and new friends can be overwhelming, even for the most social dogs. That’s why we give a little extra paw-holding on the first day to help each pup feel comfortable and settled.
Are the yards so large that staff can’t respond to a dog fight quickly enough?
As much as we like to think all pups are perfect little angels, scuffles can happen from time to time anytime there is a pack of pups. However, with the proper setup, we can help prevent situations from escalating. Our play yards strike the perfect balance: they’re spacious enough for pups to run and play to their hearts’ content, yet small enough for our staff to respond promptly and keep everyone safe.
Is there a limit on how many dogs are out in a yard at one time?
We maintain limits to ensure safety. Too many dogs in one yard can be difficult to manage, even with multiple staff members. Our dog-to-staff ratio is lower than most facilities, allowing for safer and more enjoyable playtime with their friends and more personal attention from staff. With five yards, each featuring indoor and outdoor space, we can separate dogs into smaller groups and match them with their best friends! Off-leash, Free Roam available ALL Day.
Do they allow unaltered adult dogs?
We do not allow unaltered adult dogs, as hormonal differences can sometimes lead to behavior issues. This policy aligns with the practices of other reputable facilities to maintain a harmonious and safe environment.
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Do they keep an incident log to track repeating issues?
Absolutely. Our staff is thorough in documenting any incidents to ensure all pups stay in a safe environment. Safety is a top priority, and we take every precaution to make sure your pup is around other friendly pups.
Do they have a policy for managing aggressive or troublemaker dogs?
At Pawsh Park, the safety of all our furry guests is paramount. We have specific policies for dogs who may struggle with group play, ensuring that we address behavior issues appropriately. Dogs
Do they have a 5-point wellness check for boarding pups?
Yes, we perform a comprehensive, 5-point wellness check every day. Here’s what we look at:
Personality: Monitoring changes in behavior or energy levels.
Consumption: Ensuring proper eating and drinking habits.
Potty Routine: Changes in frequency, consistency, or appearance of their waste can be early signs of a health problem.
Eye Clarity: Checking for bright, clear eyes without irritation.
Coat: Assessing coat condition for shine and skin health.
Is staff onsite overnight to ensure the building and pups are safe?
Yes, at Pawsh Park, we provide overnight supervision, giving pet parents unmatched peace of mind knowing their pups are safe. We even let them out between 9PM
and 10PM to stretch their legs and do their business!
Do they offer different options for a pup’s stay, or is it a “one size fits all” approach?
At Pawsh Park, we understand that every pup is unique and may have different needs during their stay. We offer packages and options to customize your dog’s experience, from nature walks and special meal plans to quiet time for older or more reserved dogs. Our personalized approach ensures your pup gets the perfect balance of activity and relaxation tailored to their personality and preferences. Not all pups are the same, and we celebrate their uniqueness. Whether you choose to spoil them with the Pawsh Package or prefer the Basic Package, every pup will receive all of our love and affection.
Do they offer a Pet Care Warranty to cover vet bills if needed?
We are proud to offer a Pet Care Warranty, highlighting our commitment to exceptional care. This service helps cover a portion of vet expenses if something happens during your pet’s stay.
Is the staff transparent with communication?
Yes, we believe in complete transparency. We share both the good and the not-so-good, so you’re always informed about your pup’s behavior. We also contact you immediately if there are any issues while your pup is at Pawsh. Keeping you in the loop is one of our top priorities. We like to say, “no news is good news,” but feel free to check in with us anytime during their stay.
Trained and Certified Staff?
We definitely have a Pawsh staff! From the front to the back, our team is trained and well-versed in “dogology” to ensure your dog is in capable hands. Anyone can open a daycare and boarding facility, but only the right staff can make a dog’s day truly special! Our Pawsh Life program is designed to bring out the best in our staff’s attitude and care for your pup. Call us, come by, and meet us—you’ll notice the Pawsh difference right away.
Does the facility offer tours?
While tours might seem appealing to parents, they are not ideal for the pups. We’ve found that unfamiliar guests can cause a stir, as dogs instinctively react to “stranger danger,” which can lead to anxiety and unusual behavior. This ripple effect can put other pups at risk, and maintaining a calm, safe environment is our top priority. To keep things harmonious, we no longer offer tours, but we have plenty of photos on our website and Facebook so you can see our setup. We’re always happy to answer questions, and you’re welcome to visit our lobby—we’d love to meet you!
We hope these 12 (Baker’s Dozen) tips help you feel confident in finding a doggie daycare and boarding facility that’s perfect for your pup. At the end of the day, your dog’s well-being and happiness are what matter most. Take your time to ask questions, visit the facility, and trust your instincts. And remember, a place that prioritizes safety, transparency, and a personalized experience, like Pawsh Park, can make all the difference in your dog’s day-to-day happiness. Happy boarding & daycare hunting!
