Daycare & Sleepovers

Important Information for You and Your Dog

Daycare

Most urban dogs do not get the level of exercise in their family that they get from playing with their dog buddies.  It is common for new daycare dogs to be very, very tired after their initial visits.  They may also have sore feet and some pad scuffing.  Some dogs have unusually sensitive feet and, until their feet toughen up with play, may benefit from boots and more frequent rests during initial play sessions with their buddies.

Since dogs don’t have opposable thumbs, their normal play style involves grabbing with their mouths and pawing with their feet.  As this means teeth and toenails are involved, they may get minor scratches during play. 

Our playgroups are carefully structured based on the nature and intensity of dog play.  Your dog will be placed into a group where it is ensured to have fun.  Our puppy huggers supervise daycare and sleepovers.  We carefully screen and train all staff for this important role.  During playtimes the ratio of our huggers to dogs is monitored and adjusted based on the energy level and personality of the playgroups.  Our average ratio is one puppy hugger for every 15 dogs.

Time out rooms are available whenever a dog needs a break from the group play.  Or if a play group needs a break from a dog . . . 

Diet 

A consistent diet is important for the health of your dog so we request that you bring food clearly labeled with your dog’s name and feeding instructions.  This is required for any meals to be fed during daycare and sleepovers.  On days you drop off your dog, try to feed them early so they have at least an hour for food to digest prior to playtime. 

Sleepovers 

Leaving home can be stressful for many dogs.  To minimize the possibility of stomach upset, please do not feed your dog for at least 4 hours prior to being dropped off for lodging. 

Your dog will be very excited to return home which can sometimes lead to an upset stomach.  Limit access to food and water for the first 2-3 hours until your dog settles down to prevent any problems.  Even though its regular meal schedule was followed by the staff at Urban Tails, and there was constant access to water, your dog may drink or eat to excess when it first gets home.  We suggest offering a few ice cubes to your dog if it appears to be really thirsty. 

You may also notice that your dog may have to “rest-up” from its dog slumber party or resort lodging stay and may sleep more than usual once it returns home. 

Contact Us 

Please call us immediately if you have any questions or concerns regarding your dog after a visit to Urban Tails.  We want you to understand the daycare and lodging visits and your dog’s reaction to them.  We will be happy to discuss any questions you might have.