FAQS
Ask Us Anything
It’s natural to have tons of questions when considering leaving your beloved pet with a stranger for the first time. To help you, we've provided a list of some of the frequently asked questions we're presented with below. If you still have questions, please feel free to reach out! We want you to know that your fur babies are in great hands with us!
HOW DOES PET CARE FIT INTO YOUR DAILY OR WEEKLY ROUTINE?
We are blessed to care for pets on a full-time basis! Therefore, the schedule is very flexible to provide your fur babies with the love and quality of care that they deserve, based on their needs.
DO YOU HAVE ANY RESIDENT PETS?
Yes, of course! I cannot remember a time when we have not had pets in our home. We couldn't imagine our home without one! We are "owned by" our Border Collie rescue named Rex. He has never met a stranger (human or animal) and is the friendliest dog I have ever met. He loves outdoor play, walks, and playing fetch!
WHAT FUN ACTIVITIES WILL YOU DO WITH THE DOGS WHILE IN YOUR CARE? DO YOU HAVE SPECIAL PLACES YOU LIKE TO GO ON WALKS?
We love to stimulate dogs mentally and physically. We will play fun games, participate in enrichment activities, and take nature walks in the neighborhood. With your permission, of course, we like to incorporate things such as playing fetch, soccer, tug of war, splashing around in the doggy pool (shallow dog pool in my backyard for them to run, jump, and play in), sausage bobbing, treat tunnels, and blowing bubbles (peanut butter flavored and safe for pets) for them to chase! The pups usually have a blast with these activities! If you'd prefer for your fur babies not to participate in any of these activities or feel that they would not enjoy them, we can certainly omit them. We are also fine with a fur baby who would rather be a couch potato, quietly relax, and get belly rubs as he/she falls asleep:). They are usually the best cuddle buddies and we love this! We also like to cook for pets, so we often bake turkey and/or chicken for them throughout the week. If you would rather your fur baby not have this treat due to preference, restricted diet, or allergies, please let us know. We end each day with an evening stroll and relaxing nighttime massage to bedtime melodies. On scheduled nights, we wind down with a calming bedtime story. Our pups sleep comfortably with soothing bedtime music playing in the background. Activities and games facilitated throughout the stay are planned with your fur baby's interests, temperament, and needs in mind! This personable experience ensures that your pup has the greatest time imaginable and leaves our care feeling loved and happy! All services include communication updates and tons of pictures/videos throughout the experience.
HOW DO YOU CARE FOR PETS IN YOUR HOME AND/OR YOUR CLIENT'S HOME?
We have a fenced yard for your fur baby to play in and and a neutered Border Collie (named Rex) to keep your fur baby company. I have 4 human kids between the ages of 3 and 16, who are animal lovers as well and are excited to welcome your pet into our home. Whether your pet would prefer to be a couch potato and relax with soft belly rubs or would like to run, romp, and play fetch, we are skilled to offer them a memorable experience.
When its time to retreat to bed, options for sleeping include a comfy crate/kennel with soft bedding, a bedroom buddy (where the pup sleeps in the room with a human companion), or a lounger (where the pup freely lounges wherever they choose)! Another option is the private suite area for pups who prefer less stimulation or more quiet/relaxation time. If you pet is on a particular schedule or you have certain requests, please let us know and we are happy to accommodate.
MY PET NEEDS TO GO TO THE VET. WILL YOU TAKE THEM?
Yes, of course. We are able to provide care based on the instructions that you provide. We have experience with caring for sick and injured animals as well as animals of a variety of species and all ages. Please contact me to discuss your pet's health plan and needs during his/her stay.
DO YOU PROVIDE CARE FOR ANIMALS OTHER THAN CATS AND DOGS?
Absolutely! Please contact us regarding your specific needs.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR "PUPCATION" BOARDING AND DOGGY DAYCARE?
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Good with people and other dogs (does not have to be a social butterfly but cannot be vicious)
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Up to date on flea/tick preventative medication AND free of fleas and ticks
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Up to date on vaccines (see vaccine requirements below)
**Note for Unaltered Females: Please note that unaltered females may not attend “PUPcation” Boarding or Doggy Daycare while going through a heat cycle.
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Vaccination Information:
For “PUPcation” boarding and Doggy Daycare admittance, each guest must be up to date on vaccines and flea/tick preventative medication. Guests needing vaccination updates must have their vaccinations administered under the care of a licensed veterinarian at least 48 hours prior to arrival. Individual circumstances may be considered with written documentation from the pup’s veterinarian. Current vaccination records/veterinarian certificate indicating current vaccinations may be submitted any time after confirmation of the booking to info@myheartisforpaws.com or at the time of drop off.
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Required Vaccinations:
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Bordetella (Kennel Cough)-1 or 3 year vaccine required
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Distemper (DHPP) OR DPP with Adenovirus (Distemper, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza)-1 or 3 year vaccine required
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Rabies- 1 or 3 year vaccine required
Highly Recommended (but not required) Vaccinations:
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Canine Influenza
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Leptospirosis
WHAT INFORMATION DO YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MY PET?
Making sure that your fur baby feels "at home" is important to me. Please let us know if your dog has a special schedule, dietary restrictions, and/or special needs. We'd also like to know what your pup likes to do for fun and what things we can do or adjustments we can make to make him/her feel most comfortable and have an unforgettable experience! Please inform us of your pup's sleeping arrangements and if you have a particular communication system/code words in place for your pup so that we may utilize them as well. We are happy to accommodate any needs that you may have to ensure an enjoyable experience for your fur baby. Upon requesting to book, you will be asked to answer a few questions regarding your fur baby's care (i.e. pup’s vaccination status, temperament with people/dogs, personality, interest, sleeping arrangements, health concerns, etc) to cover all of this essential information. This will help us create an individualized plan of care and itinerary just for your pup! Finally, we celebrate holidays, birthdays, and gotcha days-so please let us know if your pup has a birthday or gotcha day during their time with me!
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CAN YOU ADMINISTER MEDICATION TO MY PET?
Yes, of course. Please provide the medication and instructions for administration. Please be advised that depending on the condition/illness for which the medication is being administered, a veterinarian's note may be required to confirm that the pup is free of communicable illnesses and able to attend "PUPcation" Boarding or Doggy Daycare. This is an extra precautionary measure to ensure all pups in my care remain healthy and have a great experience. We will let you know if a doctor's note is needed for attendance.