I want to make a booking. What information do you need?
Please contact us and let know what dates you wish to drop off and pick up your pet. We will promptly respond to let you know if there is space available, and send you a copy of our Guest Profile, Medical Release, and Reservation and Cancellation Policy to fill out and return. These forms provide us with information to create your account and make your reservation.
Do you accept cats/dogs that are not spayed or neutered?
We believe that pets should be spayed or neutered. We will, however, accept unaltered dogs (all cats must be spayed or neutered) on a trial basis. Unaltered dogs are unlikely to participate in group play, but will still have their own individual time in the play yard with human interaction. Each pet in our care has their own personal space with visual barriers between runs to help prevent stress, fence-fighting, and to allow them their own natural den-like space to relax. Our secure fencing at the dog kennel allows dogs to move freely off leash from the kennel to the yards, while preventing contact with other dogs.
What if my dog is in heat?
As a rule we do not accept dogs that are in heat due to the stress it can cause in other guests. However, if all the other guests are neutered or female, we may accept your dog. Your dog will not be able to participate in group play, but will have individual time in the play yard with human interaction.
What should I bring on check-in-day?
- Proof of current vaccinations or statement of health from a licensed veterinarian.
- Your dog’s/cat’s food and treats, clearly labeled with feeding instructions
(please note the brand of food for our records). - Medications or supplements, clearly labeled with your dog’s/cat’s name and
instructions (please note the name of medication for our records). - If you prefer to bring something familiar from home, please feel free to bring
your pet’s toys or bedding.
Can I pick up or drop off my cat/dog when you are closed?
We do request that you only pick up and drop off your pet during our 8:30 am – 4:30 pm business hours. However, under special or extenuating circumstances an after hours pick or drop off may be arranged in advance. Additional fees may apply.
Dogs
Do you accept all dog breeds?
All dogs are welcome! We do not believe in breed bans. However, for everyone’s safety and well-being, if any dog shows human aggression, excessive territorial behaviours, or self-mutilation while staying with us, we may recommend alternate care and training options. We recommend an overnight trial board for new guests before you go away for an extended period.
Can I bring my dog’s own travel crate?
Yes, if this what your dog is accustomed to sleeping in. Please check with us to confirm that it will fit through our doorways.
What is the daily routine for dogs at Best Friend Care?
First thing in the morning dogs are taken out into the play area to do their business and read the p-mails. We spend some one-on-one time with each dog, developing a trusting relationship. This time also gives us an opportunity to monitor their bm’s, as well as their unique personalities and behaviours. Our facility was specifically designed on a small scale that allows us to dedicate more time to each guest and to care for your pets as if they were our own.
Once their rooms are tidied and beds made, dogs are served fresh clean water and breakfast. After breakfast their full stomachs are given time to digest. In mid-morning all dogs are given playtime in the yard to hang out, with us individually, or in socialized groups.
At mid-day we serve lunch for some, depending on each dog’s feeding schedule. All dogs are given another playtime in the afternoon, before dinner is served. Interaction, socialization, and exercise are vital in maintaining a calm and enjoyable environment for all our guests.
After a full day of mental and physical activity, dogs are given time to relax. Before settling in for the night and being served their bedtime snacks, dogs are given another exercise time in the yard.
Canine Stress & Separation Anxiety
Unless your dog has been trained to accept new situations, new people, and new dogs they are likely to experience some stress and anxiety when they first arrive. It is not unusual for their appetite to be a bit off for the first few days as well.
Music for dogs?
Music is piped into every suite. Through a Dog’s Ear is the only clinically researched auditory series with practical solutions for canine anxiety issues.
Do all dogs go out together for group play?
Safety is our first priority, and we only allow dogs to socialize together if they are mannerly, comfortable, and respond to our verbal commands. We match dogs in small groups of two to four. As we get to know get to know our regular guests we may form larger play groups. Each and every dog receives time in the yard at least four times a day, with other dogs, or one-on-one with us.
What about senior, arthritic, or lame dogs?
All dogs are naturally social, even if they don’t obviously interact together. Hanging out in the yard together, grazing on grass, reading the p-mail, laying in the sun, and getting rub downs are some of their favorite activities. Having fun along with low impact movement is the best mental and physical therapy for dogs with mobility issues.
We never group frail dogs with rambunctious dogs, so all dogs can be confident, relaxed, and comfortable. Rough play can contribute to sports injuries in any dog, just like humans, especially when they are not used to daily exercise or have a bit of a weight problem.
Big breed & hyper-active puppies
Large breed and overly active puppies are often too strong and intense for other dogs to play with. Large dogs often take longer to mature, exhibiting many puppy behaviours in a big clumsy body. Adult female dogs tend to put puppies “in their place,” and this can be mistaken for aggression.
A well socialized dog knows how to play with a variety of ages and sizes of dogs. They know to be gentle with a shy or petite dog, but can wrestle or play a friendly game of chase with another.