Frequently Asked Questions

Can any dog come to daycare? Please keep in mind that the doggie daycare environment is quite simply not for all dogs.  Just like people, dogs all have distinct personalities, and some personalities and temperaments are better suited than others to the “pack” life in daycare.  Staff at the Dog Zone will ask that you schedule an informal “meet & greet” interview to evaluate whether daycare would be a positive and fun experience for your dog, during which we will ask you some questions about your dog’s behavior and temperament.

What is the “meet & greet” interview?  In order to determine whether or not our services are right for your dog, we provide an initial “meet & greet” interview prior to your dog being scheduled for daycare.  This requires an appointment during which we can spend about 30 minutes with you and your dog.  This interview will give us a chance to meet you and get a feel for your dog’s unique personality and individual needs, which will help determine if doggie daycare would be beneficial to your dog.  During the interview, we will spend some time talking with you and interacting with your dog.  We will also see how your dog reacts and responds to other dogs, and you will get a chance to see the facility layout if you wish.  Meet & Greet appointments can be scheduled Monday through Thursday after naptime and before pickup time, and sometimes during the morning hours if enough staff is available.  Please call for your appointment and we will try to schedule it at your convenience. 

What should I expect on the first day?  Plan to leave your dog in the care of The Dog Zone to begin the transition process.  We ask that you bring your dog as early as possible on the first several visit(s) so that he/she is one of the first ones there and can “greet” the other dogs as they arrive.  This makes the process much easier and less intimidating for them than being introduced to a group of dogs that are already established.   Becoming comfortable can take several hours for some dogs, and it may take a few visits before your dog jumps right in, but many dogs join in the play immediately.  This process may seem overly involved, but safety is our number one concern—and positive introductions will set the tone for a great experience at The Dog Zone. 

Why does my dog seem “sluggish”and/or “grumpy” after daycare?  If your dog is not used to much activity or exercise during the daytime hours, he may be quite tired and/or cranky for a day or two after his first few visits to The Dog Zone.  His muscles and/or joints may be a little sore, just like a person who overdoes a workout after a long period of inactivity.  In addition, watch for soreness on his toe pads--dogs who are used to only smooth or carpeted flooring may need to develop a “toughening” of the toe pads when new to playing on the cement flooring and rocky outdoor areas.   

What if my dog is turned down for daycare?  If we decide that your dog is not right for this program, or if we must expel your dog due to behavior or safety concerns, is IS NOT a negative comment on your dog, and does NOT mean your dog is “bad.”  It simply means that the daycare environment is not the best environment for your dog, and other options should be explored.  For dogs that do not do well in a “pack” style environment, you might consider a pet sitter or dog walker who will come to your home during the day to provide beneficial physical and mental stimulation through 1:1 contact with your dog. 

What is an advance day pass or package?  Advance day passes, or packages, are most often purchased by those who attend frequently or on a regular basis, and therefore receive a discounted price for purchasing their days in advance rather than paying each day as they arrive.  Purchasing a package makes signing in upon arrival much faster and gets you on your way without delay in the morning.  Advance day pass packages are valid for six months from the date of purchase and no refunds are given for unused credits upon expiration of the package.  

Does the Dog Zone offer boarding?  Sorry, at this time, the Dog Zone does not offer traditional boarding or kenneling.  

Please feel free to ask questions and address any other concerns you may have.  

 

Copyright © 2011 by http://www.dogzonedaycare.com
All rights reserved.
Revised: 12/29/11 11:44:58 AM