Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for pick-up and drop-off?
We’re open 7 days a week from 7 am-6 pm. You can pick-up or drop-off anytime during these hours. We also offer extended accommodations from 5 am-9 pm for an additional fee.
How long does a temperament evaluation last?
Typically around 15-20 minutes.
What vaccinations does my dog need to have to attend Ruff Housing?
Your dog must remain current on Rabies, Distemper/Parvo and Bordetella (the vaccine for canine cough).
How old does my dog have to be to attend Ruff Housing?
At least 4 months old.
My dog takes medication, are you able to give it to them?
Yes, we will gladly administer medications to your dog while they are in our care for no additional charge. This medication must be in its original prescription container so that we will have detailed information about the medication, and you must sign a consent form giving us permission to administer the medication. We do not administer injections.
Why is my dog so tired after staying at Ruff Housing?
Some dogs may be tired or even a little sore for a day or two after daycare or lodging with us. This is because most of them play hard and get a lot of exercise while they are here. Our special rubber flooring and soft K9 Grass is designed to protect their joints and paws as they play. Even though they have rest areas available to them in each of our playrooms, most of them choose to play for a good portion of the day.
Why is my dog thirsty after attending daycare?
Your dog has access to water 24/7 while at Ruff Housing. There are several large bowls of fresh water in each playroom that are freshened up several times throughout the day. Also, all dogs have an individual bowl of water in their bedroom if they’re lodging with us. But as with being tired, the increase in activity may also increase your dog’s water intake. Don’t be alarmed if they want to drink more water than usual when they get home. (Though, you should encourage them to drink slowly and small amounts at a time to prevent vomiting.)
Can my dog get hurt playing in daycare?
Just like human children that play on playgrounds in daycare or at school can get hurt from time to time, dogs playing with each other on the playgrounds can get hurt too. Dogs play with their mouths and paws and like to wrestle around on the ground with each other. Because we have a high number of staff in the playrooms and because of the training program our staff is required to complete, injuries are rare. If injuries do occur, you (not Ruff Housing) are responsible for any medical expenses for your dog, as you would be for a human child. You need to be sure that you are comfortable with this before allowing your dog to play in the playroom. If you are not, Private Retreat is always an option. Most owners find that the benefits of allowing their dog to play outweigh the risks.
Why can’t I find my dog on the webcam?
We have webcams in most areas of our facility so you can enjoy watching your dog play. However, the cameras can not always show the entire room. If you’re having trouble finding your dog, they may be in an area of the room that is out of view, at lunch or having a nap in the bedroom area.
How do I view the webcams?
Instructions are distributed on a limited basis to clients who have dogs staying with us. We do this to ensure privacy and a good picture by not overloading the server with too many viewers at once, which will slow down the cameras.
Does my dog need to be on a leash when arriving or leaving Ruff Housing?
Yes! We appreciate your dog on a leash at all times when coming or going. This is for the safety of your dog, especially in our parking lot. This will also help keep the lobby environment more calm and running smoothly.
Is my dog able to go outside?
Yes. All dogs that attend daycare have full access to the indoor playrooms as well as the outdoor playgrounds. We also have set outdoor playtimes (depending on the weather) to make sure all the dogs get fresh air and sunshine.
If my dog is Private Retreat how often will they get potty breaks?
All Private Retreat dogs get at least 4 potty breaks per day if they’re lodging with us. We may also give more frequent breaks depending on your dog’s individual needs (puppies, elderly dogs and dogs with medical conditions that create more frequent urination, or if your dog just seems like he/she needs to “go”). Our Lodging Specialists are there to serve your dog. During the complimentary playtime that is included with Private Retreat, your dog will have plenty of opportunity to potty. There are never additional charges for extra potty breaks.
My dog usually eats lunch at home. Can he do this while he is at Ruff Housing?
Absolutely! We offer lunch service to dogs (also for no additional charge). Just bring your dog's food in a ziplock bag or other container clearly labeled with their name and let our staff know that you would like for your dog to be served lunch while they are here. If your dog is in daycare, we will remove them from the playroom around 11:30 and place them in one of our private bedrooms to eat lunch. We then require all dogs that eat lunch to rest until around 1:30 before going back into the playroom for their digestive health.
Other questions? Give us a call or stop by anytime for tours and additional information!
