Certified coaches playing with five dogs at Dogtopia of [location] daycare.
Playtime
Dogtopia of Las Colinas is not just a place for your pup to sleep. Dogtopia is like a staycation for your dog as  all of our boarding dogs always get to enjoy fun-filled days of play and exercise with our daycare dogs. We do not have kennel runs; instead, our boarding dogs enjoy full use of our open-play, off-leash environment. After hours of play and socialization, they will rest soundly in a place they know and trust. When your pup turns in for the night, they will be tired, but very happy. And best of all, they will have made new BFFFs® (Best Furry Friends Forever)!

Dogtopia of Las Colinas’ dog care professionals will take every step to ensure that your dog is happy, healthy and comfortable during their stay. You can even bring in your dog’s bedding to make them feel at home, along with their regular dog food to maintain their regular diet  for their overall health and comfort.

What do pet experts say about dog boarding facilities?

When searching for a place for your dog to board overnight while you are away, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure your pet’s safety, comfort, and well-being. Here’s a detailed guide on what to look for along with insights from veterinarians, and the best features a dog daycare facility can offer.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Dog Boarding Facility

  1. Cleanliness and Hygiene
    • Inspection: Visit the facility to assess cleanliness. Look for clean floors, well-maintained home-style crates, and proper waste disposal methods.
    • Sanitation Practices: Inquire about their cleaning protocols and how often the facilities are sanitized. Most of the time you can visit their website to learn about their cleaning protocols.
  2. Safety and Security
    • Fencing and Gates: For outdoor time, ensure that the  play area has secure fencing, with no gaps or weak points. Gates should be sturdy and self-closing.
    • Emergency Procedures: Ask about their emergency protocols for natural disasters or medical emergencies.
  3. Staff Qualifications and Training
    • Experience: Staff should be trained in animal care, behavior, and first aid.
    • Training: Check staff member training. For example, at Dogtopia our Canine Coach training is a custom curriculum designed by a registered canine behaviorist. The custom curriculum has been approved for continuing education credits by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).
  4. Health and Vaccination Requirements
    • Vaccination Policies: The facility should require a proof of vaccinations (Rabies, Bordetella and DHPP). Ensure they have strict policies to prevent the spread of illness.
    • Health Checks: Inquire about how they monitor the health of dogs during their stay.
  5. Space and Accommodations
    • Size of Dog Crates: Ensure that the kennels or home-style crates are spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Or if they have suites available, ensure they are clean!
    • Outdoor Areas: Look for access to safe, enclosed outdoor spaces for exercise and play.
  6. Socialization Opportunities
    • Playtime: Ask if the facility offers group playtime and how they manage interactions between dogs. Regular playtime with other dogs has numerous benefits, including:
      • Being more comfortable around dogs and people.
      • Staying physically fit. Pet obesity is a growing concern; according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 50 percent of dogs are obese.
      • Learning positive behavior, leading to better obedience at home.
  1. Feeding and Medication Protocols
    • Dietary Needs: Confirm that the facility can accommodate your dog’s specific dietary needs.
    • Medication Administration: Inquire about their process for administering medication if your dog requires it.
  2. Environment and Amenities
    • Climate Control: Look for facilities that have temperature control to keep dogs comfortable.
    • Proven safety measures such as double doors, soundproofed playrooms, rubberized flooring, and certified pet-friendly cleaning supplies.

Veterinarian Opinions on Boarding Facilities

Veterinarians generally view kenneling or utilizing a dog boarding facility as a necessary option when owners are away, but they emphasize the importance of choosing a reputable facility. Here are some common recommendations from vets:

  • Avoiding Stress: A good facility will prioritize minimizing stress for dogs. Vets often recommend facilities where all of the dogs are together can reduce anxiety.
  • Health Monitoring: Many veterinarians suggest that facilities should have protocols for monitoring pets for signs of illness or distress during their stay.
  • Pre-visit Assessments: Vets may recommend a pre-visit to the kennel to assess the environment and ensure it meets your dog’s needs.

Best Features of a Quality Dog Boarding Facility

  1. Caring Staff
    • Friendly, knowledgeable staff who provide personalized care and attention to each dog.
  2. Webcams or Updates
    • Facilities that offer live webcams or regular updates via text/email, allowing you to check in on your dog.
  3. Socialization Programs
    • Programs that encourage socialization among dogs, helping them to engage and play in a safe environment.
  4. Emergency Veterinary Access
    • Proximity to a veterinary clinic and established protocols for emergencies.

Choosing the right dog boarding or overnight stay center for your dog requires careful consideration of various factors, including cleanliness, safety, staff qualifications, and accommodations. By keeping these key points in mind and seeking a facility that aligns with the recommendations of veterinarians, you can ensure that your pet will be comfortable, safe, and well-cared for during your time away. Always visit the facility beforehand, ask questions, and trust your instincts to find the best fit for your furry friend. Dogtopia provides all of the health, safety and socialization needs of your dog so he or she will enjoy your time away as much as you do.