Can I come tour the facility before I bring my dog?

Yes, we’d be excited to show you our clean, fun and safe facility. Please stop in during one of the following times: Mon – Fri, 10 am – 12:00 pm or Sat – Sun 10 am – 4 pm. You can also easily schedule a tour online.

If my dog already goes to daycare can I bring him to your facility?

We’d love to have you dog, however, he or she will still need to pass our compatibility evaluation.

How do I make reservations for daycare or lodging for my dog who has never been there before?

You can register online by filling out the registration forms, and providing us with all the proper health/vet documents required. You can also schedule a compatibility evaluation online to see if your dog will be a good fit. Once your dog has been approved you can register for both daycare and lodging online. We require all dogs that will be lodging with us come for a day of play so they’re familiar with the setting.

Why is your lobby closed for two hours each day?

We close our lobby to give dogs’ downtime, and allow our staff to do additional cleaning. It’s important to consider that dogs do need downtime, rest helps avoid accidental injury, or potentially becoming more aggressive. Some dogs can self-regulate rest while others may need to be placed in kennels to rest.

Are you open on holidays?

Yes, We are open 365 days a year.

How do I know my dog will be safe at the Dog Retreat & Spa?

We require all dogs to go through a compatibility evaluation. Dogs are separated by both size and temperament We have a low dog-to-leader ratio. All staff members are trained in first aid and CPR, and go through a dog behavior training program. We’ve designed our facility with all sized dogs in mind – every shape and size. At least one of our pet loving staff with be present with dogs in each designated play area.

What do I need to bring for my dog when they’re in daycare?

We require all dogs to have a quick release collar. No buckles are allowed. If they need food it must be bagged, and all medication must be in original packaging.

What is the difference between Daycare and Day Stay?

Day Stay may be a perfect option for the dog that did not do well with our compatibility evaluation, or has not been neutered or spayed, or may need extra attention. This may be for various reasons, health, age or injury. Daycare is for those dogs that do play well with others.

Will my dog adjust to doggy daycare/lodging? He’s never been away from home.

Most shy dogs, or dogs that haven’t been socialized enough, usually benefit tremendously from daycare. They become less shy, more socialized and have a great time! However, that said, NOT every dog is suited to the daycare setting. It’s our job to let you how your dog is doing and see what other options may work best to keep your dog happy. For ex: we offer one on one play or small group play or your dog may do best with an at home dog walker.

What if my dog is not neutered or spade what are my options

All dogs in daycare need to be neutered or spayed at six months. If you’re not comfortable with that, you could consider our Day Stay program.

What happens if I want to cancel my reservation for lodging?

Cancellations must be made within 48 hours of schedule stay. If less than 48 hours a flat fee of $55 will be charged. Cancellation during peak holidays must be made 10 days in advance of the stay. If cancellation is requested less than 10 days prior to stay you’d charged $150 dollar fee per animal.

Can I bring my own food?

You are required to bring your pets food. It’s much better for the pet to continue on their regular diet. All food must be placed in baggies for individual meals. For boarders, you are also welcome to bring a special blanket that will make them feel comfortable. No Rawhide, bullysticks or bones allowed.

What if my dog acts aggressively toward another dog while at The Dog Retreat?

If the act is mild, the dog will be placed in a timeout until she/he has calmed down. If the aggression causes harm to another dog, you will be responsible for any veterinary care for that dog and your dog will not be allowed back unless the behavior has been modified through training.

Can someone other than me pick up my dog?

Yes, but the person has to be listed on your account when you drop off the dog. They’ll have to show personal identification

My dog went to training but is still not trained. Can you help him/her?

We offer several different training classes to meet your needs; however, we cannot train your dog without your help. An owner must be willing to commit to a minimum of 10 minutes per day to be successful with training their dog.

Can I come tour the facility before I bring my dog?

Yes, we’d be excited to show you our clean, fun and safe facility while your dog is being evaluated. You can book a tour online through our registration portal.

If my dog already goes to daycare can I bring him to your facility?

We’d love to have your dog, however, he or she will still need to pass our compatibility evaluation before joining.

How do I make reservations for daycare or lodging for my dog who has never been there before?

You can register online by completing the registration forms and submitting the required vet documents. You may also call us to schedule a compatibility evaluation.

Why is your lobby closed for two hours each day?

We close our lobby daily to give dogs downtime and allow our staff to perform cleaning and maintenance. Rest periods help prevent fatigue and promote safety during playtime.

Are you open on holidays?

Yes, we are open 365 days a year. However, on certain holidays our lobby may be closed for drop-offs and pick-ups, and hours may vary.

How do I know my dog will be safe at the Dog Retreat & Spa?

All dogs must complete a compatibility evaluation and are grouped by size and temperament. Our trained staff maintain a low dog-to-leader ratio, and all are certified in pet first aid and CPR to ensure your dog’s safety.

What do I need to bring for my dog when they’re in daycare?

Please bring a quick-release collar. If your dog requires food or medication, ensure it’s labeled and medications are in their original packaging.

Will my dog adjust to doggy daycare/lodging? He’s never been away from home.

Most dogs adapt quickly and benefit from socialization in daycare. However, every dog is unique. If needed, we offer one-on-one or small group play options to ensure comfort and happiness.

What if my dog is not neutered or spayed? What are my options?

Dogs attending daycare must be neutered or spayed by 6–8 months of age. If not, you may consider our Day Stay program as an alternative.

What happens if I want to cancel my reservation for lodging?

A 50% deposit is required for all overnight stays. Non-peak cancellations must be made 72 hours in advance to avoid forfeiting the deposit. During peak periods, deposits are non-refundable, and cancellations made within 10 days will be charged the full stay amount.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, bringing your pet’s own food is required to maintain their regular diet. Please portion food into labeled individual baggies. Boarders may bring a blanket for comfort, but rawhide, bully sticks, and bones are not allowed.

What if my dog acts aggressively toward another dog while at The Dog Retreat?

If aggression occurs, the dog will first be placed in a timeout. If the behavior results in harm to another dog, you will be responsible for veterinary costs and the dog may not return until behavior modification is demonstrated.

Can someone other than me pick up my dog?

Yes, but the designated person must be listed on your account and will need to show valid photo identification when picking up your dog.

My dog went to training but is still not trained. Can you help him/her?

We offer several training programs to help improve your dog’s behavior. However, consistent owner participation of at least 10 minutes per day is essential for lasting success.

Are Dog Boarding Facilities Safe? What to Look for Before Booking

Published On: June 25, 2025Categories: dog boarding, dog daycare

Will my dog be safe while I’m away? It’s a question every pet parent asks when planning a vacation or business trip. With so many dog boarding options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, knowing what to look for in a dog boarding facility can make all the difference in your peace of mind and your dog’s well-being.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key signs of a safe and reliable dog boarding facility, what red flags to avoid, and how to ensure your pup gets the care and attention they deserve. Whether you’re considering a stay at The Dog Retreat & Spa or another local kennel, these tips will help you make an informed decision. Keep reading to find out how to select the best dog boarding facility for your furry friend.

Why Choosing the Right Dog Boarding Facility Matters

Dog boarding facilities aren’t just places for your pet to sleep; they’re temporary homes where your dog’s health, safety, and emotional well-being are on the line. A poorly run facility can lead to stress, illness, or even injury, while a well-maintained and properly staffed boarding facility can offer a positive, enriching experience.

By choosing a safe and reputable dog boarding facility, you’ll ensure:

Your dog receives proper nutrition and medications (if needed)
Staff are trained in canine behavior and emergency procedures
Playtime is supervised and tailored to your dog’s temperament
Your pet remains physically and mentally stimulated

Signs of a Safe Dog Boarding Facility

Not all boarding facilities are created equal. To determine if a facility is truly safe, pay attention to the following key features:

1. Clean and Sanitary Conditions

A trustworthy dog boarding facility should look and smell clean from the moment you enter. Look for:

Fresh water and clean food bowls
Regular waste disposal and sanitized play areas
Ventilation to reduce odor and airborne illnesses

If a facility looks disorganized or dirty, that’s your cue to keep looking.

2. Trained and Attentive Staff

Staff should be knowledgeable about dog behavior and health. At The Dog Retreat & Spa, our team undergoes specialized training to recognize signs of distress, aggression, or illness, and we tailor care to each dog’s unique needs.

Ask questions like:

What training do the staff receive?
How do they handle emergencies?
What is the staff-to-dog ratio?

A low ratio ensures your pet gets the attention they deserve.

3. Secure Environment

Safety should be a top priority. Make sure the facility has:

Locked gates and double-entry doors
Separate areas for small and large dogs
Secure fencing with no escape routes

You’ll also want to verify whether your dog will have 24/7 supervision or only during business hours.

What to Ask Before Booking a Dog Boarding Facility

Before committing, schedule a tour and prepare to ask the right questions. Here are a few must-asks:

Are vaccinations required? Reputable facilities require proof of up-to-date vaccinations to prevent the spread of illness.
What is the daily routine? Dogs thrive on structure. Ask about feeding times, play sessions, naps, and walks.
How do you handle medical emergencies? A safe facility should have protocols in place and connections with nearby veterinary services.
Can I bring my dog’s food, bed, or toys? Some facilities allow personal items to reduce stress and make the environment more familiar.
Do you offer trial daycare visits? Many facilities offer trial runs to help dogs adjust before a longer stay.

Added Benefits of Premium Facilities

Some dog boarding facilities go above and beyond to provide a true home-away-from-home experience. The Dog Retreat & Spa, for example, offers:

Enrichment activities to prevent boredom
Private suites with soft bedding
Grooming services during your dog’s stay
Webcam access for owners to check in

These extra touches can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.

Choose Safety and Peace of Mind for Your Pup

Not all dog boarding facilities are created equal. To keep your furry friend safe, happy, and healthy while you’re away, it’s essential to do your research and ask the right questions. From cleanliness and security to trained staff and enrichment options, a truly safe facility will prioritize your pet’s well-being in every detail.

The Dog Retreat & Spa is proud to offer a safe, loving environment for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Whether it’s your pup’s first stay or their tenth, we treat them like family. Ready to book a stay or schedule a tour? Contact us today and see why pet parents trust us with their beloved companions.

Are Dog Boarding Facilities Safe? What to Look for Before Booking

Why Choosing the Right Dog Boarding Facility Matters

Signs of a Safe Dog Boarding Facility

1. Clean and Sanitary Conditions

2. Trained and Attentive Staff

3. Secure Environment

What to Ask Before Booking a Dog Boarding Facility

Added Benefits of Premium Facilities

Choose Safety and Peace of Mind for Your Pup

(781) 604-7387

info@thedogretreat.com

781-548-3248

PhysicalRehab@TheDogRetreat.com

219 Bear Hill Rd, Waltham, MA, 02451

thedogretreatandspa

rehab_at_thedogretreat

The Dog Retreat & Spa- Waltham