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.

How to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

It’s been said that dogs are man’s best friend, and it’s easy to see why! Dogs bring joy and laughter into our lives, making us happier, healthier, and more productive. However, these wonderful companions aren’t always as simple to care for as they might seem.

How to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

With the right dog care tips in mind, however, you can find success in keeping your dog healthy, happy, and well-behaved!

Feeding

When it comes to feeding, you’ll want to make sure that you’re providing a balanced diet. For example, if you’re feeding them dry food, you’ll want to supplement with canned or fresh food.

You should also make sure that they have access to fresh water at all times. You may also want to feed them treats now and then as a reward for good behavior or as a way of showing affection.

Exercising

Regular exercise is important for dogs, but it’s not always easy. What if you don’t have a yard? Maybe you work long hours or are at school all day? It’s not impossible.

Take short walks several times a day with your pup, even if it’s just around the block. This is especially good for older dogs that may be less inclined to walk longer distances.

Get creative with indoor activities like playing fetch in the house or in a large fenced-in area, going on obstacle courses created from household items, or playing tug-of-war with ropes or other toys.

Safety

Make sure you have a designated safe place for the dog. This can be in their crate, a room with a baby gate, or another confined space where they won’t run into anything that could hurt them.

Keep this area quiet and calm so that they’re not stressed out when being in there. In order to maintain health, clean up any messes as soon as possible and make sure that you have plenty of fresh water available at all times.

Grooming

Brush your dog at least twice a week with a quality brush. This will help remove excess fur, as well as dirt, dust, and other elements that could cause irritation. It will also spread natural oils from the skin outward which will make the coat look healthier.

Once every few months, have them trimmed by a groomer. This ensures that the fur is even all around, as well as removing any dead hair in the coat. Be sure to brush their teeth at least once per day (or two if you can).

You can use a toothbrush made specifically for dogs or use gauze wrapped around your finger with some fresh water on it. Make sure they are properly hydrated throughout the day by providing plenty of fresh water and food that they enjoy.

Socialization

Keeping your dog socialized is very important. Introducing them early to other dogs, people, places, and different surfaces will help build a well-rounded dog.

It’s best if they are exposed to other animals while they’re still young so they can become accustomed to it before their first vaccination and annual booster shots.

The more time you spend with them outside of the home, the better! Encourage walks in new places like parks or on paths less traveled. Occasionally, you can take them to a dog retreat center such as The Dog Retreat & Spa in Middlesex County.

Dog Daycare Middlesex County

At The Dog Retreat & Spa in Middlesex County, we understand that a dog’s happiness is just as important as its health.

That’s why we offer a variety of activities for our guests, such as off-leash playtime in our indoor/outdoor areas, cuddling with other pups during nap time, and even training classes!

Our staff members are trained to understand different breeds so they can provide an environment that suits each dog’s needs.

Contact us today to learn more about dog retreat services.