FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

                       

What are the requirements for boarding at Julie’s Pooch Pad?

Prior to boarding, your dog must pass a “Boarding Trial” which acts as a screening process and temperament evaluation. The owner brings their dog, meets with me, has an opportunity to ask questions, fills out paperwork, and then leaves their pet with me from 3-4 hours. This allows me to see how well he interacts with other dogs, observe any behavioral problems, and see if he bonds with me. I charge $25 per trial.

 

Making reservations: It is preferable to write the details of your dog’s reservation by email so I have a written copy of it

 

Where will my dog sleep?:  I allow the dogs to sleep wherever they want. Most want to sleep in my bedroom and the lucky ones sleep in my bed

 

Vaccinations requirements: Your dog must have current vaccinations in writing for rabies, DHLPP and Bordella.

 

Age and size:

·        Your dog must be under 25 pounds

·        Your dog must be at least 1 year old

 

What are the behavioral requirements?

 

Energy Levels:  High energy dogs don’t do well at the Pooch Pad. The other dogs that stay with me as are low to medium energy. If an overly excited dog joins the pack, it causes the others, especially older dogs, anxiety.

 

Potty Trained: Your dog must be potty trained. If male who is territorial, he will lift his leg on furniture, etc. Other male dogs will smell this and do the same to leave his scent.

 

Aggressive dogs: No aggressive dogs will be allowed to board. Since there are very few small breeds who are aggressive, this is usually “fear aggressive’ due to being abused in their history. Dogs who growl, especially with teeth bared are absolutely not allowed. Sometimes I don’t see this behavior during the boarding trial

 

Destructive dogs/barkers: Dogs that are destructive (chewing, etc.). Dogs who exhibit excessive barking. Normal barking is when someone comes to the door or if they see the mailman. Barking not under conditions risk my neighbors complaining.

 

Flight Risks: Dogs that are “flight risks” are ones who are constantly try to escape. This behavior is usually seen with first time boarders who are not yet adjusted and dogs who want to play a “cat and mouse” game.  I always make sure that my fence gates are always secure, but they may still try to run.

 

Emergency Procedures

 

What is your emergency procedure should my dog get

sick while boarding?

 

Minor Health Problem: Especially the first few times your dog boards with me, I won’t always know what is normal for your dog (a slight limp, etc.). To confirm whether what I see requires medical attention, I will contact the owners for their advice

 

Emergency Health Problem: In a TRUE emergency, I immediately take the animal to an emergency care facility, the call the owners after I arrive. That way, they can speak to the vet, made treatment decisions, etc.

 

What I am unable to care for the dogs (in the hospital, etc.)? I keep a laminated copy of my emergency contact that has a key to my house. They will call your local emergency contact to either take your dog or put him in another boarding facility.

 

What happens when I drop my dog off for boarding?

  • Take your dog on a short walk so they can relieve themselves. If they come in and feel nervous, they are likely to have an accident.
  • So they aren’t overwhelmed with the other dogs greeting him, I spend time getting him comfortable, and then gradually introduce him to the other dogs. Once the “pack” has all met, they will go through the same ritual that wolves do. They will determine through a number of behaviors, such as smelling each other, mock aggression, mounting each other, etc. After about 5-10 minutes they have decided who’s alpha, beta, etc. Once that’s determined, they either play or co-exist. 

 

What should I bring when I drop my dog off?

  • Bring only the amount of food for the days your dog will be boarding
  • Bring any medications your dog is taking and instructions for administering them
  • If you haven’t already brought the, bring a written copy of recent shot records
  • Let me know of any health problems your dog has had since you last boarded him
  • Advise of any changes to your contact information
  • You can bring your dog’s bed and / or favorite toy, but I can’t be responsible for them if another dog destroys them
  • You don’t have to bring dog bowls, water dishes, beds, toys, or treats, since I have them

 

What to expect after boarding

 

1.     Your dog may experience some anxiety resulting from his change in routine, the excitement of being around the other dogs and his separation from you. Your dog may come home and sleep a lot. The excitement of new surroundings, other dogs, lots of walks & playtimes can be overwhelming, and your pooch may feel tired when his schedule returns to normal.

 

2.    If your dog is male and territorial, he may "mark" when he returns home to

reestablish his territory. This is less common in non-dominant dogs.