What is open-concept daycare?
Daycares differ from boarding kennels because the dogs are not confined to individual cages & are treated similar to how the pet would be treated in their own home. Much like human daycare the dogs are free to play with their friends all day long. For this to be possible, every dog must get along very well with the rest of the pack.
What are the benefits of an open-concept (kennel-free) environment?
Dogs are highly social creatures and require interaction with other humans and dogs on a regular basis to fulfill their behavioural needs. Socialization and interaction is crucial for proper development and communication in dogs, and is of vital importance for development in puppies. A dog who often has the opportunity to play and interact with other dogs and people typically has more confidence, fewer behavioural problems caused by anxiety and boredom, is less destructive, is non-aggressive, and displays proper social interactions with both dogs and people.
Do all dogs like open-concept daycare?
Although we have done everything possible to make Rover’s a safe, fun, and stress-free place, some dogs just don’t fit with an open-concept environment and prefer to be kept separate for most of the day. If your dog would benefit more from a kennel environment we will let you know. We will not hide anything from you because it’s important that your dog is happy where they are.
Will my dog be safe?
Although absolute safety is difficult to ensure when dogs run and play with each other in a variety of terrains, Rover’s has an excellent safety record. We make safety a high priority and take a number of measures to make this possible. Dogs are only included in our pack once it’s determined that they can be trusted. The bottom line is that we love our dogs and take great care in keeping them safe.
Will my dog be happy?
Yes, and if they aren’t happy here we will let you know. Your dog will spend the day playing and having fun with their new friends. They will also enjoy regular love and attention from some extreme dog lovers. By the third visit, most dogs are rushing to get in the front door like a kid arriving at a birthday party. Most dogs absolutely love it here.
What if my dog is being bullied?
We keep a close eye on the pack to ensure that no dog has to endure mounting or unwanted rough play. Rover’s is a stress-free environment and we make it a top priority to keep it that way for every dog.
Are the dogs fed together?
No. Since many dogs have special feeding needs, each dog is fed individually in a separate room and given whatever time is needed to complete their meal. This is the one time when dogs should have their own space.
My dog usually eats lunch during the time they're at daycare, will they be fed in your care?
Yes! We are happy to help with this. Please label your dogs lunch and bring it in a container or resealable bag.
My dog has special feeding needs. Do you charge extra for this?
Not at all! We will do whatever possible to support special needs. We have a fridge, freezer and microwave to accommodate all types of diets. Please let us know about any dietary restrictions as well. We can offer your dog a variety of home-made healthy snacks, but only with your permission. Generally we avoid all grains and focus on natural protein-based foods.
My dog needs to be given medication. Do you charge for this?
We are happy to help with special requirements like medication, without charging you an extra fee. Please bring the medication in the original bottles and provide us with clear instructions.
Will my dog get potty breaks while in your care?
We don’t limit potty breaks or charge for extras since your dog will have access to the outside via dog doors all day. They will never have to “hold it” or feel bored and cooped up inside.
Why is my dog thirsty and/or very tired after daycare or boarding?
Rover’s is a place with a lot of exercise and stimulation, so your dog might take several visits to get used to it. Your dog will have access to multiple bowls of fresh water all day and night, but they might still come home wanting to drink more than usual, which is normal. It is also common for new pack members to go home and spend the next few days napping more than usual. If they attend regularly, they will get used to the activity level.
My dog is older and has trouble getting around. Would Rover’s be the right environment?
When our own dogs were in their senior years, we learned the importance of anticipating their needs. We do everything possible to ensure that they are content and safe. A lot of seniors act like puppies when playing dog games in the large yard, and some enjoy choosing from the various napping spots in the temperature controlled ranch or under a tree. Our duty is to help them do what they enjoy, and to make sure they get lots of love and attention.
My dog likes to sleep alone. Can you accommodate this?
Although most of our pack members enjoy picking one of the many beds, pillows and blankets in our main area, we are able to provide a large separate area if requested and will make sure that your dog is as content as possible. Don’t hesitate to make special requests.
What if I need to drop off or pick up my dog outside of normal times?
We have assigned specific times for morning drop-off/pick-up (7:30-10am and 4-6:15pm) because it allows the dogs to enjoy their time here without compulsively watching the door. When someone shows up unexpectedly it really shakes things up. That being said, if given notice we can accommodate occasional exceptions by greeting you at a side entrance.
What are your hours of operation?
Our drop-off time slot is from 7:30-10am and pick-ups are from 4-6:15pm. We are open 365 days a year for boarding. On Easter Sunday, Christmas Day and New Years Day drop-offs, pick-ups and daycare will not be available.
Do I need to make a reservation for daycare?
No. Once your dog has been approved for daycare no reservation is necessary. Reservations are required for boarding. We ask that you give us as much notice as possible.
Do I need to make a reservation for boarding?
Yes. We can usually accommodate boarding with short notice, but please provide us with as much notice as possible. Reservations can be made via phone or email.
What is your policy on aggression?
We don’t add any dogs to the pack that demonstrate signs of aggression or overly-dominant behaviour. With existing pack members we watch closely for the small warning signs of unwanted behaviour and work with the dogs and their people to address the problem before it grows to actual aggression. We love these dogs like our own and are vigilant in keeping them safe and happy.
Does my dog need to be spayed or neutered to visit?
If your dog is under 7 months of age we will accept them unaltered. However, if they are older than 7 months they must be spay or neutered. This is for the safety of your dog and others.
What vaccinations does my dog require?
We require all dogs in our facility to be 10 weeks of age and have received their second set of vaccinations. As your puppy grows, you should keep up to date with your vet’s vaccine schedule. All dogs over six months of age must be fully vaccinated for distemper, rabies, and parvo. The Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine is also required. Please have your proof of vaccines available on your dog’s first visit. We will periodically ask to update our records.
