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.

signs of stress in dogs - Dog Retreat and Spa

How Can I Tell If My Dog Stressed: Common Signs

What are the signs of stress in dogs? Just like humans, dogs experience stress, but they show it in many different ways. Stress is not only bad for your pet but also poses a danger to humans if they fail to recognize it. Since dogs communicate with us through their body language and behavior, it is important to recognize the telltale signs of a stressful dog and know how to alleviate it when needed.

Certain Body Language Could Mean Your Dog is Stressed

One of the biggest signs of stress in dogs is when the tail is tucked between their legs. This is a common behavior in dogs experiencing fear, which could be triggered by loud noises, or unfamiliar people, animals, and environments.

Other body language indicators can include:

Ears: Pinned back ears may indicate a sense of discomfort or anxiety in dogs.
Whale Eye: When you can see the whites of their eyes, it could often be a distress signal.
Freezing or shivering: Similar to humans, dogs may tense up or begin shivering when in a state of stress.

Behavioral Changes In Stressed Dogs

Growling is another way to tell if your dog is uncomfortable. This response will come as a warning if something invades their personal space and/or makes them feel uncomfortable. Growls are generally frowned upon by dog owners, but it is not always meant as an aggressive response.

Other behavioral signs of stressed dogs may include:

Whining or barking: Whining and barking are other common vocal responses to stress, and they may be doing it to get your attention. This is one of the most common signs of anxiety in dogs.
Panting: Another common sign of stress in your dog is that your dog pants when they feel hot or exhausted, but if you see your dog panting without any exercise, it could mean it could feel stressed.

Hiding or pacing: Many dogs will try to hide behind their owners or go to a safe space as a means of escape from stress. Other dogs will pace around a room when agitated. This could be part of the signs your dog is stressed and is also a common stress response.

Abnormal Eating Habits: Signs your dog could also be stressed if you notice them not following their normal eating and drinking habits. Alternatively, some dogs may eat more when stressed.

Why Is My Dog Becoming Stressed?

Possible causes for your dog being stressed may include:

Separation Anxiety: Dogs are social animals, and being away from their owner for extended periods can lead to separation anxiety. This can manifest as destructive behavior, excessive barking, or other signs of distress.
Lack of Exercise: Dogs need regular physical and mental stimulation. A lack of exercise can lead to pent-up energy and sometimes stress. Breeds with high energy levels may be more prone to stress if these needs aren’t met.
Harsh Discipline or Training: Harsh or inconsistent training methods can cause a dog to experience heightened stress. Positive reinforcement can be more effective and less stressful for the dog.
Unfamiliar Environments: Some dogs may get stressed when taken to different places, especially if they are unfamiliar with things like car rides or being in public spaces.
Overstimulation: Some dogs can become easily stressed in crowded areas, busy streets, or places with excessive noise. This is considered a highly stressful situation for dogs.
Previous Trauma: Dogs that have experienced trauma in their past, such as abuse or neglect, may be more prone to stress. Certain situations may trigger memories of past trauma.

How Can I Relieve My Dog’s Stress?

The first thing to do is identify the root cause of the stress and remove the dog from the problem to reduce its stress level. If it is an uncomfortable environment or a loud area, finding a quiet place for the dog to relax will help your dog. This is the first step to calm a stressed dog. Dogs thrive on routine, so try to maintain a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and playtime. If you are concerned about your dog’s stressful habits, take him to a veterinarian or a trainer who can better identify any underlying health or behavioral issues.

Relieve Stress At The Dog Retreat And Spa

The Dog Retreat and Spa in Boston, MA, focuses on making sure your pet is happy and comfortable when you’re away. We care for your dogs as if they’re our own, and encourage you to take a tour and bring your dog by our daycare a few times so they can get used to the environment.

Additionally, we require that dogs must be pre-approved before they’re able to book cageless or “freedom trail” lodging. This is a service that is designed to help dogs that don’t do well in their rooms overnight, due to stress and anxiety.

Call us today at (781) 604-7387 to get started.