Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule a kennel visit at HADI?
Kennel visits are available during regular business hours so you can meet the owner, Melina, and the people who will be taking care of your dog(s). Please call 915-355-7949 to schedule an appointment for your visit so we can set aside time to learn about your dogs(s) and answer all your questions. (You do not need to bring your dog with you unless he or she is staying for the day.)
Note that we do NOT offer tours of the facility because the dogs in our care are out in their play yards during the day. Their comfort and well-being are our #1 priority and strangers walking through their space can be distracting, disruptive, and even upsetting.
Kennel visit appointments are not available during busy times such as holidays.
Why do you have drop off and pick up windows?
Having set times for drop off and pick up helps us maintain a calm and safe environment, and minimizes the disturbances that create unneeded stress for the dogs in our care. We have two windows of time for drop off and pick up:
8:00 am – 9:00 am
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat
TIP: If your dog has never been to HADI before, or if he/she is shy or anxious, we highly recommend a morning drop off so they have a chance to decompress and get acclimated — sniff out out their environment and get to know us — before bedtime in a new place.
Does my dog have to be spayed or neutered to stay and play at HADI?
Yes, dogs have to be Spayed or Neutered. The smell of of an unaltered dog can stir up the environment, which creates challenges for both the dogs and the staff. The majority of dogs who stay and play at HADI are spayed or neutered.
Does my dog have to be vaccinated to stay and play at HADI?
Yes. To prevent the spread of disease while your pet is in our care, all of our canine guests must be current on their Rabies and Distemper/Parvo Vaccinations. We very strongly recommend your dog also be vaccinated against kennel cough with the Bordetella vaccine ten (10) days prior to boarding. To ensure protection of all pets, vaccinations must be up to date ten (10) days prior to boarding. Please bring a copy of your vaccination records so that we can have it on file.
What should I bring when I drop off my dog for boarding?
While we provide everything he or she will need including food and bedding, we recommend bringing a blanket or favorite toy from home to cuddle with at night in their kennel. The familiar scent of home and their family will be comforting.
If you choose to supply food from home, please make sure it’s in a plastic container with your pet’s name and instructions for how much to feed each day. Make sure to send extra food as well because they play hard at HADI and will burn more calories than at home.
Finally, if your pet is on any medicine, it has to be labeled by a veterinarian with clear instructions, timing, and dosage.
Why do you have specific drop off and pick up windows?
Here at HADI, we take the time to read your dog’s cues and behavior to understand their personality so we can make the best decision for him/her. Dogs, just like us, have personalities. No one dog is like the other. Many dogs we meet are not happy to hang out with 10 others; they prefer 1 or 2 friends. In fact, after the puppy stage, about 90% of dogs are selective about who they want to spend time with - just like people!
Carving out time to assess each individual dog and match them with friends is an important part of our process every single day. In addition, every disturbance or interruption from the outside during the day gets the whole environment riled up. We want to avoid, as much as we can, stressing our guests. We appreciate your understanding!
What will my dog eat during his boarding stay at HADI?
We provide food for your dog during his stay with us including Diamonds Natural Dry, a variety of canned food, as well as homecooked meals and treats for really picky eaters or dogs who refuse to eat. However, you’re welcome to provide your dog’s usual food from home if you prefer. Food that is brought from home HAS TO BE in a plastic container with your pet’s name and instructions for how much to feed each day.
What should I expect when I pick up my dog?
Here are a few things to expect when you get home from your first few visits at doggy daycare or after boarding:
Thirst – Your dog will likely drink a lot of water when they get home. We do provide plenty of fresh water during the day, but some dogs enjoy playing with their friends more and will forget to drink.
Exhaustion – All the running, jumping, wrestling, and playing can wear out your dog. It often takes several visits for dogs to learn how to pace themselves. First timers may require a two-to-three-day recovery period, which is why we don’t recommend consecutive daycare days.
Sore Muscles – Most dogs are having such a good time, they rarely stop to rest. Over time, they will get stronger and in better shape, just like people who start exercising regularly. Your dog may seem stiff and sore after the first few visits. Please let him rest!
Sore Pads – Running and playing with new pals all day can be rough on your dog’s feet. Their pads may get worn or abraded. This will go away as the pads toughen over time.
Damp, Dirty Fur – Your dog will get dirty! Depending on the weather, your dog’s coat and paws may be very dusty or even muddy. Our play yards are all natural and outdoors in a desert country setting, and we provide lots of pools and water play for cooling off.
Minor Injuries – Please be aware that minor dog injuries are inevitable. Dogs used their mouths and paws to grab at and play with each other. They use their teeth to nip and chew each other’s cheeks in play. Occasional scrapes, nicks, and even punctures are going to happen. Sometimes collars get broken. We at Howl-a-Day Inn supervise all playtime to prevent possible disagreements, but these things can happen in the course of normal dog play. If you are not comfortable with your dog engaging in play and the risks associated with such activity, daycare is not a good option for your pet.
Finally, while some dogs worry about new places and people, your dog will be more comfortable in new situations with a regular daycare routine. He or she will grow more confident outside your home as they become familiar with the daycare schedule, staff, and other daycare dogs!
How do I know if doggy daycare is right for my dog?
Doggy daycare can be a very stimulating environment, more than some dogs can handle. For this reason, we screen your dog’s suitability on their first visit. All dogs must pass a temperament test to ensure that they are both dog and people friendly. It is important for the health and safety of all concerned that dogs attending daycare do not show excessive shyness, are not toy possessive, are not overly fearful or protective of territory, and are not easily stressed in new situations. We believe in the physical and mental benefits of doggie daycare, but we also recognize that it will not be the best option for every dog. Rest assured that we will let you know if HADI is not the right fit for your pal.
How will I know how my dog is doing at HADI daycare or boarding?
So many pet parents ask us how their dog did, especially on their first day. No news is good news! But we’re happy to share any highlights of their time with us at pick up. (If there are any serious issues or medical concerns, we will most definitely call you right away!) We also post a lot of pictures of our puppy friends playing at HADI on our business Facebook page. Follow us to see pictures of your pup!
What is kennel cough?
Kennel cough is a very contagious respiratory illness often accompanied by a strong “honking” cough, that is easily treatable in healthy dogs. Even if your dog is vaccinated against Canine Kennel Cough (Bordetella), there is still a chance he or she could contract kennel cough due to other viruses. The Bordetella vaccine is still the best way to prevent kennel cough, and is typically recommended before boarding your dogs or bringing them to daycare. Note: pets should receive the Bordetella vaccine 10 days prior to boarding for maximum effectiveness.
Can I board my pet if she has stitches or staples?
If your pet currently has stitches or staples, we are unable to board them. If she/he had them removed/dissolved less than two (2) weeks ago, we require a letter from your veterinarian detailing your pets’ readiness to board.
