Policy & Procedure Questions
What pet sitting services do you offer?
We offer Doggy Daycare and Overnight Boarding in our home.
What are your rates?
You can view a complete list of our rates and more detailed information on our "Services & Rates" page.
What are your policies & procedures?
You can view all our Policies & Procedures on our "Policies & Procedures" page.
Are you licensed?
Yes! We have a business license with the city of Murrieta.
How long have you been in business?
We hosted our first dog guests on June 1st, 2016.
What are your hours for drop-off and pick-up?
Our appointment time blocks for Arrival (Drop-off) & Departure (Pick-up) are: 7:30am-10:30am and 3pm-6pm, 7 days a week.
What does it mean that you are insured?
We carry a liability insurance policy that protects from financial loss in the event that we were liable for accidents that occur while caring for our client’s pets. Any responsible, professional business should carry liability insurance. Proof of insurance is on display in our home.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We prefer cash but also accept checks, Apple Pay, Zelle and Venmo.
Do you have any size or breed restrictions?
We host dogs of small-medium sizes. All guests are required to be non-aggressive to humans and dogs and tolerant of having other dogs around.
How far in advance can I book pet sitting services?
As soon as you know you will be needing our services, please let us know! We try hard to accommodate the needs of our many clients but do function on a first come, first served basis.
Do you provide services on holidays?
Yes, we do offer boarding on holidays! Peak Season/Holiday rates will be charged on the following dates:
- Martin Luther King Jr. (Thu.- Mon.)
- President’s Day (Thu.-Mon.)
- MVUSD Spring Break (3/26-4/3, 2022 & 4/1-4/9, 2023)
- Memorial Day (Thu.-Mon.)
- 4th of July (1st – 5th)
- Weekends in June, July, August (Fri.-Sun.)
- Labor Day (Thu.-Mon.)
- Columbus Day (Thu.-Mon.)
- Veterans Day (Thu.-Mon.)
- Thanksgiving (Sun.-Sun.)
- Christmas and New Years (December 18–January 1)
What is your cancellation policy?
Unfortunately, life does happen and the need for cancellations do occur. Because we do reserve spaces for clients who book in advance and turn away other potential clients, we kindly ask that if you need to cancel for any reason that you please let us know as soon as possible.
- Boarding services:
- Cancellations made 0-24 hours in advance of service start are subject to a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the booked service.
- Cancellations made 24-48 hours in advance of service start are subject to a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the booked service.
- Daycare services: Cancellations made 0-24 hours in advance of service start are subject to a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the booked service.
- Peak Season/Holiday bookings: cancellations must be made no less than 72 hours in advance to avoid the cancellation fee equal to 50% of the booked service.
- Late service start or early return: If the previously agreed upon service dates are altered either by a later start date or an earlier return date they are subject to the above cancellation policy. An early pick-up does not constitute a refund of any kind.
Do you give discounts for multiple dogs?
No we do not. Because space is limited each boarding guest is charged at full price.
General Questions
What is an 'Assessment Day' and what happens during it?
We require your dog(s) to attend a paid assessment day prior to booking any new reservations.
- Assessment Day is by appointment only.
- Assessment Day can be A) 4 hour daycare, B) 8 hour daycare, or C) 24 hour boarding stay. Please see our Rates page.
- Please bring your dog(s) current vaccination records.
- Assessment Day is for the dog(s) only.
I'd like to see where my dog is staying. When can I schedule a tour?
We do not allow humans to enter our home or yard, however we do understand that you'd like to see where your dog will be spending their staycation. Due to our insurance limitations, dog guest safety and the added stress on our current guests we do not allow human guests in our home for tours. Please see our Virtual Tour video and pictures of our backyard and Dog Lounge.
Do you have a room just for the dogs?
Yes, we call it the Dog Lounge. As seen on our "Virtual Tour" the dog lounge is where the dogs' personal "suites" are. Our home office, the dogs' supply cubbies and the mini-fridge are also in the same room. The dogs eat and sleep in their personal "suites" and are allowed free access to the entire downstairs of our home during the day while attended.
Do you have video cameras that pet owners can watch throughout their dog's stay?
We do have cameras in the dog lounge but we do not give access to the pet parents to view them. They are strictly for us to check on the dogs when we are not home.
Can I call you to check on my dog throughout their staycation?
Absolutely but we do prefer to text instead. Phone calls can be hard because oftentimes the dogs like to “join in” on the conversation. Additionally, when our attention is focused on the phone call there is less attention being given to the dogs.
Our “Office Hours” are 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday and request that phone calls only be done during these times. We are available for texting, when your dog is currently in our care, from 7am-7pm, 7 days a week.
Text is our preferred method of communication.
Our “Office Hours” are 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday and request that phone calls only be done during these times. We are available for texting, when your dog is currently in our care, from 7am-7pm, 7 days a week.
Text is our preferred method of communication.
Is it always loud?
It certainly can be when unexpected visitors come knocking on our door or ringing the bell (please just text us when you’ve arrived!) but for the comfort of our guests, family, and neighbors we try our best to keep the dogs from 'singing the song of their people.'
Do you offer any discounts?
No, we do not offer any discounts.
How often does my dog need to attend Doggie Daycare?
You may bring your dog every day, if you like, but many guests come just a few days a week. Daycare gives dogs with extra energy a place to burn it off and because dogs, by nature, are highly social animals, daycare provides a place for them to socialize and can reduce problem behaviors that can result from being isolated and alone during the work week.
Do I have to commit to a certain daycare schedule?
No of course not! Some of our daycare guests come 5 days a week, some 2-3 days, and others are only occasionally as needed. Daycare hours are between 7am and 7pm, 7 days a week. Half-day daycare is a maximum of 4 hours per day and offered Tuesdays & Thursdays. We do not offer “playcare” (daycare for the sole purpose of socializing) on Wednesdays. Last minute reservations are accepted as long as space is available.
What are some cons of group boarding / daycare?
- Learning to mark (more dogs = more scents) and hump (yes, even the ladies).
- Transmittable diseases (canine cough, influenza, etc).
- Getting dirty or wet (we are out in the yard a lot throughout the day and in the summer time they have the option to cool off in the puppy pool).
- Increased rink of scrapes, scratches, tender paw pads, and injury.
Do you offer other services such as grooming or training?
No we do not. We keep eyes/facial skin folds/butts wiped clean and clean dirty paws but we promise, you do not want us attempting to give your dog(s) a haircut.
Are photo and/or video updates provided?
Absolutely! We send at least one pupdate everyday to all families to let them know how their dog(s) are doing.
Health & Safety Questions
What vaccinations do you require?
We require up-to-date vaccinations for DHPP, Rabies and Bordetella. It is also required that your dogs be flea-free.
What is the Bordetella vaccination and do you require it?
The Bordetella vaccination is for “Kennel/Canine Cough.” We do not require that our guests have the Bordatella vaccine. Please consult your veterinarian.
How many employees do you have or are you the only person working with the dogs?
Because this is our home the whole family interacts and entertains the guest dogs! In the event of an emergency with our family/a family member we do have a network of professional pet sitters that we would call on for backup as well.
Can I just do a drop-in?
No we ask that you don't. We are open by appointment only to ensure stress-free arrivals and departures for all incoming and current guests. We do not accept "drop-ins" and all new guests must complete their assessment day prior to staying with us. Once you and your dog are on our client list we can often accommodate last minute reservation requests.
Are staff always present when dogs are playing together in communal areas?
Absolutely, under no circumstances is group play unsupervised! The dogs are safely & securely separated into their personal suites anytime we can not appropriately supervise them (arrival/departure appointments, errands, etc.).
How secure is your home and property?
It’s as secure as your home with extra precautionary measures. Our backyard’s exit is double gated (the main gate that leaves the yard as well as a secondary inside gate that blocks off our side yard so the dogs can not access our pool/cooling equipment and trash cans). All dogs are secured in their personal suites before any arrival/departure appointments to prevent any escapes when the door is opened. Dogs are never left unattended in the backyard.
How often do you clean the common areas and suites?
Every day! You think your dog sheds a lot? Multiply that by… well… multiple! We vacuum, steam mop and disinfect the common dog areas of our home every day. We also hose off our patio area (boys will be boys) and pick up excrement multiple times every day.
Why do you require multiple emergency contacts?
We take our guests’ comfort, health and safety seriously. If your dog needs medical attention and you are unavailable, your emergency contact can help us make health care decisions for your dog. Additionally if your dog becomes extremely anxious/unsettled and is a major disruption to our other guests or family we will ask that one of your emergency contacts come pick-up your dog and care for them the remainder of your absence. Please make sure to communicate with your chosen emergency contacts that they are comfortable performing these tasks for you and your dog should the need arise.
Is my dog supervised 24/7?
No, we are not home 24/7. Like most families we attend to errands & appointments outside our house a few times a week. All guests are separated into the personal suites when we are unavailable to monitor their group play.
How do I know my dog will be safe and is being cared for properly?
Providing a safe, caring, and comfortable home environment for our guests is our top priority! We completely understand how nerve racking it is to trust your pet's care with someone else. While your dog is a guest in our home they are treated exactly like our own pets - family! They are loved, comforted, respected, and kept safe! We send text, picture, and video "pupdates" throughout their stay and you are always welcome to contact us to check-up on them as well.
What if my pet becomes ill or injured while in your care?
We will try in all cases to use your primary veterinarian if your dog should need medical care while saying with us. If your vet is not within close proximity and/or unavailable we will use our vet, Old Town Veterinary Hospital, or one of the major emergency hospitals nearby. You will receive a call in all instances of illness or injury before any treatment is done.
Do the dogs ever have confrontations?
Yes, like humans, dogs can have disagreements. Should signs of dissension be observed between two dogs they are immediately diverted/separated in to different playgroups or activities as necessary.
How do you know the dogs will get along?
We diligently monitor each guest's demeanor and socialization skills closely throughout the day. We select playgroups based on size, age, activity level and play style. All playgroups are 100% supervised at all times.
Do they have free reign of the house?
Yes! They are welcome/allowed to romp & slumber anywhere they choose in the downstairs of our home when we are present and available to monitor their group activities. If we need to step out for errands or appointments they are separated and secured in to their personal suites for the duration of time they are unsupervised.
Do they have free reign of the backyard via doggy/open doors?
No they do not. If the dogs are in the backyard, we are too!
Pet Care Questions
What should I pack for my dog's stay?
When packing for your pet's stay with us please be sure to include the following items:
1. Payment in full for the booking invoice. We accept cash, check, Apple Pay, or Venmo.
2. Food (dry kibble):
3. Collar and ID tags with current, up-to-date contact info.
4. Leash (and harness if used) - please bring a leash with your dog (even if not normally used) in case of emergency or some other need to leave the house.
5. Treats: If your dog has special dietary restrictions or they enjoy treats such as dental sticks, antlers and chews you may bring those items and they will be kept in their personal cubby. If no dietary restrictions they will enjoy our assortment of dog treats here when going down for nap/bed time.
6. Dog's crate/bed/pillow/blanket: Most the time these items are not necessary to bring as we have extra crates, beds and blankets that your dog(s) is welcome to use. Occasionally on higher traffic times of the year we may request you bring these items. Please keep dog beds to more manageable sizes and leave the giant, oversized bedding at home.
7. Medication/Vitamins/Supplements: prescription medication (if applicable) kept in the prescription bottle and packaged into a ziploc bag with your dog's name and dosage schedule written on it. Vitamins and supplements need to be bagged with dosage schedule written the same way.
8. Special Notes:
1. Payment in full for the booking invoice. We accept cash, check, Apple Pay, or Venmo.
2. Food (dry kibble):
- A) ziploc bagged, single-meal servings (preferred method) OR
- B) one large ziploc bag including the measuring/serving scoop!
- Notes: Bags of dry kibble do not need to be labeled with dog’s name as they will be kept in their personal cubby. If providing large ziploc bag and serving scoop please write on the bag the per-meal serving size! (1 scoop, 1 1/2 scoops, etc.)
- A) Canned wet food: please have your dog's name written on the side of each can as well as the serving amount (2 scoops, 1/2 can, etc.).
- B) Homemade food, FreshPet, etc: please provide food in ziploc bagged, single-meal servings. Have your dog's name written on each serving bag or put all servings in to another larger bag and write your dog's name on the outside of that bag.
3. Collar and ID tags with current, up-to-date contact info.
4. Leash (and harness if used) - please bring a leash with your dog (even if not normally used) in case of emergency or some other need to leave the house.
5. Treats: If your dog has special dietary restrictions or they enjoy treats such as dental sticks, antlers and chews you may bring those items and they will be kept in their personal cubby. If no dietary restrictions they will enjoy our assortment of dog treats here when going down for nap/bed time.
6. Dog's crate/bed/pillow/blanket: Most the time these items are not necessary to bring as we have extra crates, beds and blankets that your dog(s) is welcome to use. Occasionally on higher traffic times of the year we may request you bring these items. Please keep dog beds to more manageable sizes and leave the giant, oversized bedding at home.
7. Medication/Vitamins/Supplements: prescription medication (if applicable) kept in the prescription bottle and packaged into a ziploc bag with your dog's name and dosage schedule written on it. Vitamins and supplements need to be bagged with dosage schedule written the same way.
8. Special Notes:
- Please keep your packing to the list above (the basics)! Our cubbies are 18"x18"x18" cubed and for guest safety all belongings need to fit inside this space.
- Unless your dog(s) uses a slow feeder bowl we do not need food or water bowls.
- Do not bring an excessive & unnecessary amount of food or large food storage containers.
My dog has never been away from home before and we are planning a long trip. What do you suggest?
Feel free to contact us and we can discuss scheduling an assessment day for your dog. At the end of the assessment day we will let you know whether we feel your dog could become comfortable in our home for boarding or may suggest a pet sitter to come to your home instead. If we proceed with boarding plans we would request that your dog join us for doggy daycare several times leading up to your vacation. Every time you return to collect your dog from daycare it will reinforce to them that they haven’t been abandoned by you and that they will see you again. Over time this helps them settle in and start to enjoy their social activities while here and become confident in their knowledge that they will see their family again at the end of their staycation.
While my dog is boarding with you, will they be taken out for walks?
No, they will not. The dogs get a tremendous amount of playtime with each other throughout the day and are always tired by bedtime. Although we live on a quiet cul-de-sac there can still be “unknowns” (stray cats/dogs) outside of our property and it’s not a safety risk we are willing to take. Additionally, if we walked individual dogs around the neighborhood the other guests would be subject to unnecessary downtime in their personal suites.
When hosting multiple dogs, how do you keep them from fighting over food and treats?
To prevent food fights, dogs are separated in to their own personal suite and fed their meals. The same applies if they have chews/bones/dental sticks that aren't immediately consumable.
My dogs are free fed and are allowed to eat when they want. Do you allow for this?
We cannot "free feed" here or allow throughout-the-day grazing but if your dog is typically a grazer then they are offered their food more often throughout the day while they are in their personal suite.
My dog is on a special, homemade diet that needs to be refrigerated. Is that going to be a problem?
Absolutely not! We have a mini fridge just for special diets located in the Dog Lounge. Please just package the food in the same way as the "How to pack for my pet's stay" instructions.
My dog will not take her medicine unless it is hidden in a hot dog. Will you provide that accommodation?
Absolutely! Please provide the food item (pill pockets, hot dog, peanut butter, etc.) that your dog takes their medication with and it will be administered. Please package medications in the same way as the "How to pack for my pet's stay" instructions.
What should I expect when my dog returns home from boarding?
After full days of play, your dog may come home feeling extra tired. This is entirely normal and expected. We are constantly monitoring our guests and will take any overly tired & cranky guest into their personal suite for nap time if necessary.
It's not uncommon for pets to sleep a lot and even skip meals after they’ve returned home. Additionally, your dog may also be quite thirsty. While water is always available, they may still be thirsty after arriving home. What often happens is that dogs spend so much time playing with each other that they sometimes forget to stop and take a drink. For those parents that have human children, it is similar to a child forgetting to eat lunch because they are so busy playing with their friends. Please know that we offer multiple sources of fresh water throughout our home at all times.
Do your dog’s paws seem more sensitive to touch? Did they wake up with sore muscles? This is also completely normal, especially if they are new to a dog daycare/socialization setting. It's common for dogs' paw pads and muscles to be sore/achy after romping and playing all day.
It's not uncommon for pets to sleep a lot and even skip meals after they’ve returned home. Additionally, your dog may also be quite thirsty. While water is always available, they may still be thirsty after arriving home. What often happens is that dogs spend so much time playing with each other that they sometimes forget to stop and take a drink. For those parents that have human children, it is similar to a child forgetting to eat lunch because they are so busy playing with their friends. Please know that we offer multiple sources of fresh water throughout our home at all times.
Do your dog’s paws seem more sensitive to touch? Did they wake up with sore muscles? This is also completely normal, especially if they are new to a dog daycare/socialization setting. It's common for dogs' paw pads and muscles to be sore/achy after romping and playing all day.
My dog lost weight during their boarding visit. Is that normal?
It’s not uncommon for a pet to lose some weight while staying with us. Most of the weight loss is due to the excitement of being with other guests and the exercise they receive while playing in our large play areas. Some weight loss is due to the dog participating in a “hunger strike.” Dogs in our care get constant activity which doesn’t always happen at home. In short, dogs will typically burn significantly more calories during their boarding visit than they normally do and may skip a few meals too.
What will my dog be doing during the day?
Playing, running, romping, wrestling, cuddling, and snoozing! Your dog will love playing with friends, sunbathing by the pool, snoozing on the couch by the warm fireplace and receiving their favorite bedtime treat!
It's my pets' first time boarding, what do I need to bring?
Along with the list above - "What should I pack for my dog's stay?" for first time guests I always suggest that the pet parent may want to sleep in an old t-shirt the night before and bring that as a comfort item for their dog.
Would you feed my dog during daycare?
If you would like your dog to be fed during daycare you will need to supply the food and tell us their eating schedule. There is no extra cost to feed your dog during daycare.
My pet has special needs. Will this cost extra?
No, administering oral medications and handling special dietary needs will not cost you any extra. Dogs with special needs are welcome at daycare and boarding and appropriate accommodations will be made.
Do I need to bring my dog's bed and toys?
No, you do not need to bring their bed, but may if you wish. We just ask that you please leave very large, oversized beds at home and they can use one of ours while here instead. Please also understand that there is slight risk to bedding and by bringing these items you understand we can not guarantee the cleanliness nor condition of them upon return. Please do not bring any toys that you hope to get back upon your return.
Do you host senior dogs?
Yes! All ages are welcome! Older or handicapped pets will be placed in to age appropriate playgroups or if they prefer to relax and sleep they will be placed in their own area within the lounge to do so undisturbed by others.
My dog hasn't been socialized but he seems so excited to see other dogs on a walk. Can he come?
Please contact us to schedule your dog's assessment day. At completion, we can let you know if we are a good fit for each other or refer you to a dog trainer to work on acquiring socialization skills.
What if my dog won't eat?
It is very common for dogs that are not yet comfortable with boarding to go on a "hunger strike." If they choose to skip two full meals in a row you will be contacted to discuss the addition of other food items such as shredded cheese, shredded chicken, etc in order to stimulate their appetite.
How do I get started with you?
Head on over to our "New Clients" page where you will find all the information about how to give your dog(s) the best staycation ever!