Is my dog a good fit for homestyle boarding?
Home style boarding can be a wonderful option for dogs. Rather than being constrained in a cement and chain link enclosure, home style guests are free to move throughout our house, are allowed on the furniture and frequently sleep in our beds with us. At Bed & Bowl, dogs have at will access to a safe and spacious fenced play area as well as to a wonderful group of other canine friends. Dogs love the company and stimulation of other dogs and are enthusiastic participants in games of chase, fetch, splashing in the pool, running through the snow and cuddling together on the sofa or by the fire.
All potential guests have been through an initial behavioral assessment, but it is important to note that this does not rule out the potential for conflict to arise. Our dog radar is pretty keen and if we sense any friction building between personalities, we intervene and change up the dynamic or the grouping of dogs and structure interactions to avoid frustration and conflict. We individually monitor energy levels and structure play groups accordingly.
That being said, whenever dogs have access to each other unconstrained by cages, there exists the possibility of rough play and conflict. Owners should be aware that dogs can and will communicate through humping, bumping, chasing, teasing, wrestling, posturing, vocalization, mouthing each other and even nipping each other on occasion. This is normal behavior for dogs. We monitor and structure play very closely, but the risks involved in group canine play are real and owners should be aware of and comfortable with this.
It is incumbent upon owners during assessment to be forthright in sharing any history of aggression, fighting or biting their dogs may have. Bed and Bowl is unable to accommodate dogs struggling with aggressive behavior, resource guarding, small animal predation, or history of fighting / biting and we recommend a more traditional kennel for dogs working on these issues.
All potential guests have been through an initial behavioral assessment, but it is important to note that this does not rule out the potential for conflict to arise. Our dog radar is pretty keen and if we sense any friction building between personalities, we intervene and change up the dynamic or the grouping of dogs and structure interactions to avoid frustration and conflict. We individually monitor energy levels and structure play groups accordingly.
That being said, whenever dogs have access to each other unconstrained by cages, there exists the possibility of rough play and conflict. Owners should be aware that dogs can and will communicate through humping, bumping, chasing, teasing, wrestling, posturing, vocalization, mouthing each other and even nipping each other on occasion. This is normal behavior for dogs. We monitor and structure play very closely, but the risks involved in group canine play are real and owners should be aware of and comfortable with this.
It is incumbent upon owners during assessment to be forthright in sharing any history of aggression, fighting or biting their dogs may have. Bed and Bowl is unable to accommodate dogs struggling with aggressive behavior, resource guarding, small animal predation, or history of fighting / biting and we recommend a more traditional kennel for dogs working on these issues.
How should I prepare my dog before his or her stay?
It’s expected that incoming boarders will arrive in a WELL EXERCISED condition. Entering the group with wild, pent up energy will rob your dog of the opportunity to have greater self control and positive interactions with other dogs. Help your pup to get off on the right paw by making it a priority to provide him or her with adequate exercise prior to being dropped off.
Should I bring my dog’s bed and toys?
Guests are encouraged to bring their own washable blankets and comfort toys from home if desired. Dog beds are provided but feel free to send your dog’s bed from home with the caveat that all beds, toys sent from home are shared in the group. We ask that you refrain from sending “best” toys or items that are intensely meaningful to you or your pup as these items may become damaged or lost when shared with friends.
How will my dog be fed and given medication?
First and foremost, please DO NOT send food bowls. Bowls will be provided here. Guests should bring their own food, medications and supplements. These items should be labeled clearly with your pet's name and feeding/dosing instructions. Be sure to measure out the correct amount of food for your dog to last the number of days that you will be away. Supplements and medications, including injections, are administered at no extra charge. Please provide detailed instructions, especially if dosages have been altered from original labeled instructions.
Feeding time is naturally a very important and exciting time of the day for the pups. It's helpful to limit ad-ins at meal times to one or two essential items. Multiple add-ins slows the process down significantly, making wait times longer and creating unwanted frustration and tension. A simple, efficient feeding routine helps keep everyone happy and satisfied, that's our goal.
Because dogs can be a bit finicky when eating in an unfamiliar place, the addition of tablespoon or so of a good quality canned food mixed with a little warm water can be a very helpful tool to encourage appetite. Just one can of food = a week of happiness. Please send one for your dog! (Pull tops are preferred over cans that require a can opener.)
Feeding time is naturally a very important and exciting time of the day for the pups. It's helpful to limit ad-ins at meal times to one or two essential items. Multiple add-ins slows the process down significantly, making wait times longer and creating unwanted frustration and tension. A simple, efficient feeding routine helps keep everyone happy and satisfied, that's our goal.
Because dogs can be a bit finicky when eating in an unfamiliar place, the addition of tablespoon or so of a good quality canned food mixed with a little warm water can be a very helpful tool to encourage appetite. Just one can of food = a week of happiness. Please send one for your dog! (Pull tops are preferred over cans that require a can opener.)
Here at Bed & Bowl, WE BELIEVE IN GRAVY.
Dogs love gravy.
Gravy makes dogs happy.
Gravy is a nice thing to do. "
What if my dog needs a crate?
Bed and Bowl is primarily a cage free boarding facility however, we recognize that conditions exist in which a crate may be a useful tool in providing safety or comfort. If your dog craves the emotional security of his or her crate, by all means feel free to send one.
What if my dog likes to chew, shred, or eat things they shouldn’t?
We recognize that some dogs may on occasion engage in “dietary indiscretion.” While we welcome those who find shoes, fabric furniture & non-edible items mighty tasty, indiscriminate chewing is dangerous. Please inform us of ANY history of chewing, shredding or counter surfing that may pose a risk to your pup.
Whether you have a teething puppy, an anxious nibbler, or a recreational chomper, we ask that you bring your pup’s crate from home. Crating may be essential for the physical safety and well being of your dog.
Whether you have a teething puppy, an anxious nibbler, or a recreational chomper, we ask that you bring your pup’s crate from home. Crating may be essential for the physical safety and well being of your dog.
Do you accept last minute bookings?
In cases where the need for unanticipated travel arises, reservations may be made with as little as an hour’s notice depending on our scheduling and availability.
What if there’s an emergency or sudden change of plans?
Please contact us right away if something comes up that will affect your dog's stay. We cannot be responsible for illness, family emergencies, work conflicts or inclement weather. We highly recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance, available at a nominal cost from any travel agency or online.