FAQs

What are the risks of daycare and what about dog fights?

• Since they lack opposable thumbs, dogs play using their teeth and nails.  Although this is part of normal play, it can result in nicks, scrapes, scratches, and punctures.  The dog that receives the most injury, however, is usually the aggressor.

• Dog fights are not common at daycare because we carefully select which dogs are allowed to play together, separate dogs that become over excited, and handle conflicts to the best of our ability.

• If your dog is injured during normal play or if your dog intentionally injures another dog, YOU are financially responsible for those injuries.

 How do you introduce new dogs?

• New dogs are initially kept in an area by themselves to explore and get comfortable before meeting the other dogs.  Then they will be introduced to one dog at a time.  We ask that owners not be present during introductions as this may affect your dog’s behavior.  Your dog may be more aggressive or more timid with you around.  Some dogs progress rapidly and become part of a large play group.  Other dogs will take longer to adjust and stay with a smaller group at first.  How quickly your dog makes friends will depend on his/her prior experience, temperament, and personality.

• Once accepted, it is best to bring your dog at least once a week.  This will allow them to form stable relationships with the other dogs and become comfortable with the daycare environment.  Under socialized, hyperactive, and shy dogs will benefit from more frequent visits.

 How many dogs do you allow?

• Our facility is approximately 3,000 sq. ft.  Industry standard is 50-100 sq. ft. per dog.  We have a limit of about 20 dogs (well below industry standard).  Our daily limit depends on the size, temperament, and energy level of the dogs.  Some days are more rowdy and we take fewer dogs.  Some days are calmer and we can take more dogs.  Our average day is between 15-17 dogs.

 Are all dogs kept together?

• No, we separate based on size, age, temperament, and play style.  Some small dogs like to play rough and are a better fit with the large dogs.  Some large dogs are timid and feel more comfortable with the smaller dogs.

 Where does my dog go potty?

• We have a small outdoor area, which we let the dogs out in several times a day.

 Will daycare ruin my housetraining efforts?

• If you have a successful housetraining program at home, nothing will affect that.  If you are having accidents at home, most likely it is bad management to begin with.

 What if my dog fails the evaluation or is dismissed from daycare?

• This happens occasionally, but it does not mean your dog is bad or that you are a bad dog owner.  Sometimes this environment is too overwhelming or maybe your dog needs some training and socialization before coming back to daycare.

 What if my dog is shy or growls sometimes?

• Complete the evaluation process.  All new dogs go through a gradual introduction so they can meet other dogs one-on-one or in small groups.  Try half days at first to keep your dog’s stress level low while he/she adjusts.

What about food?

• If you want your dog to have lunch, bring your own food.  Your dog will be separated from the group to eat.  Most dogs would rather keep playing, than take time out to eat.  We occasionally give out treats.  Please let us know of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Should I bring toys?

• No.  We provide a variety of durable toys for all the dogs to play with.  Any toys you bring will likely get destroyed and your dog may become possessive of toys from home.

What about naptime?

• Most dogs find a place to sleep when they get tired, either on a bed, in a chair, or curled up with friends.  If your dog cannot nap unless left alone, we will separate to give them a break.

 What about water?

• Water is always available.  Bowls are refilled and refreshed frequently.

What if my dog is injured or gets sick?

• All illnesses and injuries are prevented to the best of our ability.  Remember that even normal dog play can result in injury.  Just like a child skinning his knee at the playground.  You will be notified immediately if the problem is severe.  If it’s a minor problem you will be notified when you pick up your dog.  If necessary will we transport your dog to a veterinary hospital.  You will need to give the vet permission to treat your dog.  All medical costs will be assumed by you.

What is Kennel Cough and what do you do about it?

• Kennel Cough is one of the most common infectious diseases that dogs get.  Most cases are not serious and do not require veterinary treatment.  Dogs get better in a couple of weeks.

• Kennel Cough is caused by airborne bacteria.  A dog that has been exposed to Kennel Cough may not show symptoms for up to ten days.  Your dog may get exposed to Kennel Cough at daycare, groomers, dog parks, vets, or even just walking through the neighborhood. 

• If you suspect that your dog has Kennel Cough, isolate your dog and seek veterinary advice.  If your dog has recently been any place where he/she was exposed to other dogs, notify the correct individuals that your dog is coughing.

• The best way to prevent Kennel Cough is to talk to your veterinarian to find out what vaccines they recommend.  Treatment usually consists of cough suppressants and occasionally antibiotics.  Follow the advice and course of treatment prescribed by your veterinarian.

• At Paws for Fun we carefully watch for signs of illness and notify owners of anything unusual.  We clean and disinfect all surfaces, toys, beds, and bowls regularly.  We run an air purifier to circulate and refresh the air and keep the facility well ventilated.  Despite our best efforts colds go around, just like in child daycare.  You wouldn’t prohibit your child from going to school to prevent a cold.  Socialization and education are just as important for our dogs.