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.

5 Things to Look for in Dog Boarding Facilities

Published On: July 22, 2022Categories: dog boarding, dog daycare

What are some things to look for in dog boarding facilities? As much as you love your dog, it can be difficult to find the time to take them out on long walks and make sure they get their daily exercise. To avoid feeling guilty about your dog getting left behind all day, all night or worse, hurting or causing damage in your absence, consider the benefits of taking them to an overnight dog boarding facility that specializes in providing care and attention to dogs while their owners are out of town or at work during the day.

Things to Look for in Dog Boarding Facilities

Here is what to look for in the best dog facility in Middlesex County and the best dog hotel in Waltham MA.

1. Dog Boarding Facility’s Capacity

The first thing you want to look at is a facility’s capacity. A good place will be able to take care of a lot of dogs all at once, and even more are going to be able to get their hands on some sort of deal or discount if they do go with multiple dogs. The best dog daycare in Middlesex County facility should have a good number of places where the canine guests can sleep, play, and be taken care of by competent staff members. It should also have an exercise area that is large enough for them all, as well as pools, spas, and other amenities that will leave your pooch comfortable in a more natural environment than most facilities can offer.

2. Amenities

Good dog boarding facilities will also have a variety of fun amenities that will keep your pooch comfortable and entertained. Things like spacious and relaxing indoor play areas, bark parks, on-site masseuses, and walkers will ensure your pup doesn’t miss out on anything while you’re out of town. The outdoor space is also important because dogs need exercise just like their owners, so find places with plenty of room to run around. The last thing you want is an overcrowded park situation where dogs fight over playtime spots. If they offer grooming services and training classes, even better!

3. Natural Surroundings

This is a key factor that should be considered during your search. Dogs like being outdoors and if you want them to enjoy their stay, you need to consider taking them somewhere with natural surroundings. Wooded areas are perfect because they have lots of trees where dogs can run around. It also provides shade, which is something all dogs will love whether they’re young or old. You don’t have to go far – your backyard or a nearby park will do just fine as long as it has some greenery. However, make sure it’s free from hazards such as high voltage wires, slippery rocks, or tree stumps – these can hurt your pet when it plays around in these environments!

4. Professional Service

Dog boarding facilities will help you with tasks like walking your dog, cleaning up after it, and sometimes even feeding it. Ideally, you’ll want a service that allows your pet to be social. It should have other dogs around. Your dog might not enjoy being alone all day so, if possible, opt for an environment where he or she can socialize (some places call these playgroups). Cleanliness matters too. You don’t want to take your four-legged friend somewhere that doesn’t appear to care about cleanliness or smells bad. And make sure any staff members have been properly trained and are licensed.

5. Ongoing Care

Look for dog boarding facilities that offers a number of different daycare or overnight options. Your pet may prefer either staying at home or going out and about. Understand your pet’s personality and needs before picking a dog care service. Is your pooch an active type? Does he enjoy socializing with other dogs? Be sure to ask what kinds of services are offered, as well as how long sessions last, whether they’re open-ended or round-the-clock and whether there are any extra fees associated with certain services (like morning check-in/check-out). Talk to current customers too. If you like their experience and can trust that it’ll be similar for your dog, then you’ve found your dog retreat destination.

Indoor and Outdoor Play Parks at the Best Dog Boarding Facility

There are many aspects of a pet daycare service you should consider. To help you find and choose a good one, we’ve outlined what matters most. Just like with other services, make sure you do your research and read reviews before committing to any one place. If you are looking for a home away from home for your dog, look no further than the Dog Retreat & Spa.

Whether your goal is to train, socialize, or just give your pup a vacation, Dog Retreat & Spa has everything your pup or adult dog needs. Our experienced staff not only love dogs, but are highly trained in handling all types of dogs.

Contact Dog Retreat & Spa today to book your next stay!

5 Things to Look for in Dog Boarding Facilities

Things to Look for in Dog Boarding Facilities

1. Dog Boarding Facility’s Capacity

2. Amenities

3. Natural Surroundings

4. Professional Service

5. Ongoing Care

Indoor and Outdoor Play Parks at the Best Dog Boarding Facility

(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