Day Care Frequently Asked Questions

Doggie Daycare is an organized, controlled and monitored environment for a group of friendly dogs to interact and play throughout the day in an enclosed building or yard. Scheduled activities will depend on the individual daycare owner, but typically there is a rest period where the dogs may nap during the day, which may be in individual housing. The purpose of doggie daycare is to provide stimulation, exercise, socialization, and in some cases training for a dog that might otherwise be left home alone during the day. The owner of the dog receives peace of mind knowing their dog is being cared for by experienced professionals and will be just as tired as they are at the end of a busy day.

What are the risks of day care and what about dog fights?

All dogs admitted to day care have undergone an initial temperament assessment evaluating each dog's behavior and reaction to different stressors and triggers. However, no evaluation is fool proof and our staff is equipped with skills to handle conflicts in the day care area. They are also trained to prevent conflicts from occurring by extinguishing potentially volatile situations before they escalate.

Dogs play hard, therefore the risk of cuts, scrapes, and scratches will be ever present. Per our waiver, if your dog injures another dog or your dog is injured through normal play you are financially responsible for that injury. Owners acknowledge that dogs may become unpredictable in behavior and are aware of the risks involved in such play.

How are dogs disciplined during day care?

A Diamond in the Ruff is committed to keeping our dogs happy and healthy. Dogs that are displaying negative or potentially aggressive behavior are first placed in a time-out where they are isolated from the rest of the pack until they have calmed down. Any dog that displays repeated aggressive behavior or causes intentional physical harm to another dog will be removed from day care.

Does my dog need to be vaccinated?

Yes! It is in the best interest for your pets and the other visiting pets. We ask that your pet is current on their rabies, DHLPP (dogs), and the Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine. Just like when you visit a boarding kennel or a dog park, your pet is at risk if he/she is not protected. Viruses like kennel cough have an incubation period of up to 7 days with no warning signs. We have no way of telling if yours or another pet is carrying this virus. We cannot be held responsible if your pet becomes infected with this virus. We ask that you bring in your current shot record for our records. If you do not have them you can have your vet email us before your first visit.

Do you accept Titers in lieu of vaccinations?

Yes titers are accepted in lieu of vaccinations. However, there is no titer for Bordetella so it may be in your best interest to have this.

What is a Titer?

A titer is a blood test that measures the amount of antibody in the blood to a given disease agent. So, for example, a parvo titer would show the amount of antibody against parvovirus that a dog has in her blood. Some diseases have been studied enough that scientists know what level of antibody protects against that disease, so this level is called a "protective titer." Please see our links page for more information on this.

What is kennel cough, what do you do about it, and can my dog get it?

Canine infectious tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) is one of the most prevalent infectious diseases in dogs. Fortunately, the majority of cases is not serious and resolve on their own within one to two weeks. The main cause of kennel cough is the airborne bacteria, Bordetella bronchiseptica. A dog with kennel cough will develop a coarse, dry, hacking cough about five to ten days after being infected. It sounds as if the dog needs to "clear its throat," and the cough will be triggered by any extra activity, drinking water, or being exposed to a change of temperature or level of exercise. Many dogs that acquire kennel cough will cough every few minutes, all day long. They will wretch and sometimes vomit a white foamy looking matter. Their general state of health and alertness are usually not affected, they usually have no rise in temperature, and do not loose their appetite.

Even in the most hygienic dog facilities, the possibility of a dog acquiring kennel cough exists. Kennel cough can be acquired from your neighbor's dog, from a champion show dog at a dog show, from the animal hospital where your dog just came in for treatment or from the sidewalk where an infected dog walked earlier. In other words, kennel cough can be picked up anywhere dogs are present.

The signs of kennel cough usually last from seven to 21 days and can be very annoying for the dog and the dog's owners. If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, please isolate your dog and seek medical advice from your veterinarian. Isolation is of utmost importance. Do not take your dog to public places, and above all, keep your dog at home until you receive a written confirmation from your veterinarian that your dog's condition is no longer contagious. Please note: We rely on our clients' honesty to inform us about their dog's medical condition and if he has been diagnosed or is being treated for any contagious illness. We do hope that all our patrons and clients have respect and concern for not only their own dog, but for the health and welfare of all the dogs and will avoid putting any other dogs at risk.

How far in advance do I need to make reservations?

You may call at anytime to see if we have cancellations, even the same day, and we will accommodate you if possible. Typically we take reservations 1 week prior and do have standing reservations if you'd like.

What happens if my dog becomes ill or injured?

Our staff keeps current on pet first aid with the American Red Cross and will be able to assess the situation and administer first aid as needed. We will make every attempt to contact you with all available contact numbers and if we are unable to reach you we will contact the emergency contact number listed in your file. If the situation is an emergency we will immediately go to a veterinarian for the health and safety of your dog.

Who is responsible for the payment of any injury or illness?

You are, however we take every precaution to make sure all dogs are safe and secure including requiring updated vaccinations, interviewing all dogs for behavior and constant monitoring. However, accidents from group play or group interactions may come up.

If I suspect my dog is ill should I still bring him/her to day care??

No. For the health, safety and well being of the entire group any signs of sneezing, coughing, unknown rashes or oozing or leaking sores should be tended to by a veterinarian prior to your dog coming to day care. If a dog shows any of these signs while at A Diamond in the Ruff we will ask you to come pick your dog up immediately.

Why does my dog have to do an interview before coming to your facility?

We are a "cage free" facility which means dogs are required to interact with other dogs. It is our goal to create a harmonious environment for all, so an initial introduction is needed to ensure a good fit.

Does my dog have to be a certain age to attend?

Puppies must be a minimum of 12 weeks of age in order to be admitted. Puppies under 6 months of age are required to have their first set of DHPP and Bordetella vaccinations, but are not required to have their Rabies vaccination until 6 months of age. It is the ongoing responsibility of the owner to provide verification that vaccinations are current - we will make every effort to remind you before your dog's vaccinations expire.

Can someone else pick up my dog?

Owner must provide written authorization to allow anyone else to pick up their dog, and people who are authorized by you will be required to present valid picture identification to ensure the safety of your dog.

Can my pet be bathed or groomed before I pick-up?

Yes! We offer luxury spa services including baths, shampoo & conditioning. Please see our day spa section.

Are nametags and collars required?

All dogs must be wearing a collar and name tag upon entry, and must be on a leash. Break-away collars are recommended. Retractable leashes are not allowed.

Do you administer medication?

Yes. Your pet is welcome to bring along medications. All meds must be in their original container and must include your dog's name, the name and strength of the medication, written directions including dosage, number of times per day, how it is to be given, illness to be treated, areas to be treated, etc.