A Guide For First Time Boarders
I’m considering boarding my dog, where do I begin?
Call us- (978) 772-4242. We understand you are nervous and may not be quite sure what to ask. We are happy to spend as much time as you need guiding you through what you should expect. Many owners will ask us about our setup, the daily routine for the dogs, exercise options available, bedding, food, medications, staffing, rates, etc. We try to answer these questions on our website, but it is not the same as speaking with a real person. We may even find ways to cater to your dog. For example older, arthritic dogs may do better on our lower level so they will not have to use the stairs.
Take a tour- Tours are welcome anytime, no appointment necessary. Nothing will help you understand the setup here more than actually seeing it. You may also have some questions answered that you didn’t know you had! Tours are great because you will meet a staff member that will be caring for your dog. Please inform us of any special needs your dog may have even if they just have a need to be tucked in at night before bed. Whatever we can do to keep your dog on his/her normal routine may make a difference on your dog’s comfort while here.
Make a reservation- It is always a good idea to book ahead especially for the summer and holiday/school vacation weeks. We do require a $20 non-refundable deposit for peak time frames when you make your reservation.
Trial visit- If you are going to be away a long time and this is your pets first time boarding, you may consider having your dog come for an overnight or even just for the day ahead of time. This can really help your dog to become familiar with some staff members here and our routine before you leave for an extended stay. Most importantly, they may understand that you are coming back.
What should I bring when I drop my dog off?
- Vaccination records (rabies, distemper, and bordetella are required)
- Emergency contact number- cell phones are wonderful so we can reach you for questions
- Medications that you like us to administer for an additional charge of $1 per administration of each medication
- Optional: filled in contract from our website to save time
- Optional: food from home. Iams MiniChunks are typically provided, but you may prefer a special diet from home for an additional charge of $1/day.
- Optional: bedding from home. We do provide bedding but your dog may enjoy something that smells like home. Please remember Fido may get bored and chew, so nothing too cherished.
- Optional: 1-2 toys or treats. Comfort items from home are welcome.
What will happen at check-in?
- Please allow 5-10 minutes to fill out contract so we can verify your contact information and vaccination records.
- We will ask about: Emergency contact number, feeding instructions, exercise instructions and medications.
- A staff member will take your dog into a space with some water and bedding. We understand it is difficult to leave your dog, especially for the first time. Please try to keep a calm and relaxed demeanor. If you are comfortable, your dog will pick up on this energy and your dog will be comfortable.
What happens now that I am away on my vacation?
- Relax and enjoy yourself! We are going to do everything we can to make your pets stay an enjoyable one. Feel free to call and check in if you would like. Please note we will typically not call you for relatively minor issues such as digestive upset from stress unless instructed otherwise. If there is an emergency or a concern that comes up, then we will call and leave a message.
Checking out
- We recommend getting a groom on the last day before you pick up. Your dog may associate grooming as the final part of his routine before he gets reunited with his family. The 11:00am check out time is waived if you get a groom the day that you pick up.
- Finally a reunion! We will settle up the bill first because we know your dog is going to be bouncing off the walls excited to see you! Now is the time hugs and doggy kisses!