Q. What are the benefits of Grateful Dog daycare?

There are a multitude of benefits. You’ll see for yourself the joy your dog exhibits when nearing Grateful Dog’s front door after his first few visits. In brief, exposing a dog to a variety of people, dogs, sights and sounds is the definition of socialization. Behaviorists encourage regular socialization and daily exercise for a dog’s overall quality of life and improved behavior.

Q. Who can play and stay at Grateful Dog?

Requirements to play: Most dogs that do well in a dog park will do well at Grateful Dog. Since your dog's safety and well being is our top concern, we do have a few requirements for daycare dogs.
Play Nice! Dogs must be able to share toys and space with people and other dogs.
Spay or Neuter/Age: All dogs must be spayed or neutered and at least 7 months old.

Q. What about vaccinations?

Dogs must be current on the following vaccinations: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Para-influenza), Canine Influenza, Rabies and Bordetella (Dogs must be vaccinated for Bordatella at least 1 week prior to staying with us if unvaccinated or if vaccine is expired more than 7 days) - Please bring vaccination record to your evaluation.

Q. How Do I Become a Client?

• Read the requirements above and ensure your dog meets them.

• Fill out the enrollment form on this website.

• Call to schedule your interview. On your interview day bring your dog and your proof of vaccination if it has not already been faxed by your vet.

• After the interview, if all goes well, you are free to make reservations for any daycare or boarding!

Q. Why do you use cage-free boarding?

Dogs are pack animals; they are at their best when they are free to socialize and sleep with the group. At Grateful Dog, our guests play all day with the same dogs they will be sleeping with at night. They make “best friends” just like humans and have the opportunity to sleep along side that friend at night. The reason we can successfully board dogs in a group is because they are tired from their active day, they are less anxious because they are not isolated from the rest of the pack and our guests are pre-screened for social ability.

Q. What if my dog fails the interview or is unable to stay in daycare?

Some dogs just need a little socialization training before meshing in daycare. If your dog is not initially accepted or can’t stay in daycare, it’s not the end of the world. It doesn’t mean he’s not a lovable dog. It simply means daycare is too stressful of a situation for him and is better off in a different environment. We can help coordinate alternate outlets for such dogs.

Q. My Dog Doesn’t Always Want to Play With Other Dogs; Sometimes He Just Wants to Be Given Affection. Is Daycare Appropriate for Him?

Yes, many enjoy watching the action from the sidelines. They prefer spending the majority of their day being petted and loved by our staff. We’re happy to cater to the lovers of the group.

Q. Can I Check it Out Before Leaving My Dog?

Absolutely! We love to show off our digs! You are free to visit 10am to noon and 2pm to 4pm, Monday-Friday. Weekends by appointment.

Q. Should I Bring My Dog When I Check it Out?

It works better if you don't. The daycare dogs get very excited at the thought of a new playmate and it tends to make the experience more hectic.

Q. Can I Meet the People Taking Care of My Dog?

Absolutely! You will have the opportunity to meet your pup's caretakers when you take your tour or when you drop off or pick up your pup.

Q. Do You have an Outdoor Yard?

Yes. We have two spacious outdoor play areas with pools. If you do not want your dog to go outside feel free to let us know and we will be sure to keep your dog in our indoor play area. The dogs are in the outdoor areas as long as the weather permits.

Q. Do You Separate Big and Little Dogs?

On busier days with more guests we will separate dogs into appropriate play groups, but on quieter days we might combine the group since our play areas are spacious enough for the little ones to not feel intimidated.

Q. Do the Dogs Fight?

While there is never a guarantee, Grateful Dog takes every precaution to ensure there are no fights. Because we require an evaluation of all dogs prior to attendance and because the dogs’ behavior is carefully managed, we are able to prevent fights. Your dog's safety is our top priority!

Precautions we take to ensure your dog's safety

• • All dogs are evaluated and dogs exhibiting aggressive behaviors are not admitted to daycare.

• • Dogs are supervised by trained professionals 100% of the time.

• • Our staff is trained to understand dog’s body language so fights can be stopped before they start.
  Dogs are carefully and slowly introduced to their play group.

• • Since dogs do bite and claw as they play, minor cuts and scratches are not uncommon; but you can rest assure every precaution is taken to avoid a serious altercation.