FAQ | Happy Dog Spot

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions that are not listed below, or if you have any follow-up questions, please use the Contact Us form on this website or just give us a call. We are always proud to share how we care for your dog at Happy Dog Spot.

Do I need an evaluation or trial day before my dog can attend daycare?

Yes! Every dog must complete an evaluation and a trial day of daycare before regular reservations can be made. This helps us get to know your dog, confirm they are a good fit, and ensure the safety and comfort of all our guests.

What are the registration / admission requirements?

All dogs must complete our new registration form to schedule an evaluation and trial day of daycare. Required items include current vaccination documentation, a negative fecal test within the last 6 months, and (for dogs older than 8 months) proof of spay/neuter. Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old with a minimum of three rounds of puppy shots. Every dog must also pass a temperament evaluation as part of their trial day.

Which vaccinations are required?

Rabies, Distemper, Bordetella, and Canine Influenza. Documentation must be provided.

Is a recent fecal test required?

Yes. A negative fecal test within the last 6 months is required.

What is the minimum age for puppies, and what vaccine history is needed?

Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old and have received a minimum of three rounds of puppy shots.

Are dogs required to be spayed or neutered?

Yes. Dogs older than 8 months of age must be spayed or neutered.

Do you accept new clients year-round?

Yes. We welcome new clients throughout the year. Please fill out the new registration form to get started.

What is the staff-to-dog ratio and who works at Happy Dog Spot?

We maintain low dog-to-staff ratio of about 15 dogs for each staff member. Our team includes certified veterinary technicians and experienced attendants who love dogs and take time to learn each dog’s personality and needs.

Are certified veterinary technicians on staff?

Yes. Certified veterinary technicians are part of our team and help provide safe, structured care.

What safety measures are in place?

We require vaccinations, fecal tests, spay/neuter status (as applicable), and temperament evaluations. Dogs are grouped appropriately, supervised by trained staff including veterinary technicians, and cared for in a clean facility with personalized attention.

How are playgroups structured and supervised?

What happens during a typical day of daycare?

Dogs are placed in playgroups based on play style and temperament. Groups enjoy supervised indoor and outdoor play, including stimulating activities, and are escorted to outdoor yards on a regular schedule. We also provide opportunities for rest and quiet time as needed.

How large is the indoor/outdoor play space?

Happy Dog Spot has over 10,000 square feet designed to give every dog room to run, rest, and play. Four indoor yards range from 700 to over 2,100 square feet, offering flexible space for dogs of all sizes and energy levels. Outside, three additional yards feature a mix of turf and pea gravel play areas, along with pools and hoses for water play.

Do you provide updates during the day?

Our staff is focused on providing attentive care to the dogs in our care each day and do not provide updates as a standard procedure; however, you can call us anytime to ask for an update on your dog. We love sharing how their day is going! We also post pictures on Facebook and Instagram daily.

Can I visit my dog during daycare or boarding?

You are welcome to call us anytime for an update on your dog, and you may see photos of your pet posted on Facebook and Instagram. We do not encourage visits during the day. Unexpected visitors can impact our care of other dogs and create confusion for your pet.

Do you administer medications, and is there a fee?

Yes. We can administer medications for an additional fee. Please provide clear instructions and the medications in original bottles from your pharmacy at drop-off.

Is lunch available, and is there an extra charge?

Yes. Lunch service is available for dogs over 8 months of age for an additional fee.

Can grooming be combined with daycare or boarding?

Yes. Many clients prefer to schedule a bath or other services in conjunction with a daycare or boarding stay so their dog goes home fresh and clean.

What is included in a full-service bath and brush?

It includes a massaging shampoo, conditioning rinse, high-velocity blow dry, hand brushing, trimming of feet, sanitary trim, nail trim with grinding, and ear cleaning.

Is there a trial boarding night option, and how does it work?

Yes. A Trial Boarding Night is available Monday–Thursday by appointment only. It helps reduce anxiety for first-time boarders. Your dog must first pass the temperament evaluation and a trial day of daycare. The owner must be in town and available for pick-up between 8:00–8:30 pm if needed. Dogs not picked up by 9:00am the next day will be added to the daycare schedule and charged accordingly.

What is included in overnight boarding?

All-inclusive boarding includes daycare activity during the day, a full-size kennel suite with cot, two feedings per day, a bedtime tuck-in and treat, and Sunday pick-up availability. Mid-day nap time is provided on Saturday, Sunday, and holiday schedules.

Do boarding dogs participate in daycare activities?

Yes. Daycare activity is included with boarding so your dog can enjoy play and socialization during the day.

Can I bring my own food, bedding, or treats?

Yes. You may bring your dog’s regular food (pre-measured is helpful). Fleece bedding rental is available for an additional fee or you may bring your own. A bedtime treat is included.

What size kennel suites are available?

We offer full-size kennel suites complete with a cot in 4 ft × 5 ft, 4 ft × 8 ft, and 5 ft × 8 ft accommodations.

How far in advance should I book boarding, especially around holidays?

We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly for holidays and peak times, to ensure availability. Contact us to check current availability.

What are the hours for drop-off and pick-up?

Happy Dog Spot hours are Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 6:30pm; Saturday, 8:00am – Noon; and Sunday, 8:00am – Noon and 5:00pm – 6:00pm. All drop-off and pick-up for all services happen during these hours. Dogs scheduled for pick-up after 9:00am are charged the half-day rate. Please confirm exact times when booking, especially around holidays.

What are the holiday hours and closures?

Office Closed: Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day.

Office Open 8:00 am - Noon but No Daycare: Black Friday, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve.

Please check with us for any updates around holidays.

Can I tour the facility?

Yes. We welcome you to stop by and see the fun for yourself. Feel free to contact us to arrange a visit.

How do multi-visit packages work and when do they expire?

Packages offer discounted daily rates and can be used for daycare visits. They expire six months from the purchase date. Unused visits do not carry over after expiration.

What is the additional dog rate for dogs from the same household?

An additional dog from the same household is $30 per day for daycare.

Do you board or care for cats or other animals?

No. Happy Dog Spot is dedicated exclusively to dogs.

Why choose Happy Dog Spot?

We treat you and your dog like family. Our facility is designed for safe, structured play with groups matched by temperament, low staff-to-dog ratios, certified veterinary technicians on staff, and individualized care plans. Many of our clients tell us their dogs get excited the moment they pull into the parking lot!