FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Some questions we find are asked more than others.  Here’s a list of some of the most popular with our answers:

Q: What are your requirements?

A:  We accept dogs four months of age and older who are up to date on their Rabies, Distemper, Bordatella, and Canine Influenza vaccinations. The canine influenza vaccine (CIV) is not a core vaccine at all veterinary practices.  Therefore, you may need to specifically request it from your vet. All vaccinations must be kept current.  Males over eight months of age must be neutered.

Q: How do I get my dog started?

A:  For your first visit, we will need to verify your dog’s vaccines are all up to date.  You can send proof of vaccination through your customer portal, or email us at desk@doggiedaycare.com  This allows us verify your dog’s vaccines before your arrival.  Alternatively, you are welcome to bring your vaccine records with you on your dog’s first day, though if there are vaccines out of date or missing, we will not be able to take your dog until those are updated. 

To get your dog started, you can set up a customer account right here online! From there you will be able to make your reservations, sign your customer agreement, upload your dog’s vaccine records and even pay your balance.  If you need a hand or prefer we get the ball rolling for you, just give us a call or stop by.

Q: Where will my dog play?

A: We have over an acre of land divided into four large yards.  All of our yards have special dog playground equipment for exploration and enrichment. Fresh water and shade are always available.

When it is uncomfortably hot or cold, groups make short frequent potty trips outside before returning to the indoor play areas.  We have great indoor play areas with rubber matted floors, cots, air conditioning, and heat.

Q: Who will my dog play with?

A: Your dog’s group is decided based on size and temperament. All play groups are supervised.  Every dog is different and some dogs may take longer to adjust to playing in a group environment.  At Gulliver’s, every dog’s introduction is customized with the dog’s safety and comfort in mind.  We observe your pup for any signs of discomfort or nervousness.  After your dog has had a chance to acclimate to the new environment, we will introduce him/her to a few calm friendly dogs.  From there, we will integrate him/her to one of our main groups.  If they are not comfortable, we back up, give them more time, and try again later.  Sometimes individual dogs may not be suited to group play or the stimulation of our busy environment.  We will discuss options and recommendations with these owners based upon our observations.

Examples of our groups are:

  • The Little Guys: Smaller breed dogs who have their own specially built play yard
  • The Goofy Group: Outgoing, energetic, and usually adolescent dogs.
  • The Big Yard: Mature dogs who appreciate a more “sophisticated socialization.”
  • The Puppy Group: puppies, usually under six months
  • Smaller, more individualized groups, or solo play

Q: What if my dog doesn’t get along well with others?

A: Many dogs that don’t do well with other dogs near their family can often play at Gulliver’s without an issue.  We work with dogs that are uncomfortable around other dogs to build up their confidence.  Feel free to contact us to discuss how your dog is doing and what kind of progress they  are making.  We do have areas where dogs can play if they do not get along well with others.  We take all kinds and are committed to working with dogs who may find social situations harder than others.  Sometimes individual dogs may not be suited to group play or the stimulation of our busy environment.  We will discuss options and recommendations with these owners based upon our observations.

Q: Do you need to “interview” my dog before he can come and play?

A: Nope, all dogs are different.  Many take time to warm up to a new environment full of  brand new people, dogs, sights, sounds, and smells.  We give each dog time to acclimate and work into play groups at a pace they are comfortable with.  We do not pass judgment on an interview-if a dog is having trouble, we will let you know.  We can usually work to help them enjoy daycare and eventual group play.  Sometimes individual dogs may not be suited to group play or the stimulation of our busy environment.  We will discuss options and recommendations with these owners based upon our observations.

Q: Can you feed my dog lunch?

A: You are welcome to bring a lunch for your dog to eat midday during daycare.

Q: Do you give medications?

A: We can administer any medications (including injections) that you normally give at home.  There is NO extra charge for this.

Q: What do you do when the weather is bad?

A: When it’s uncomfortably hot or cold, groups make short frequent potty trips outside before returning to the indoor play areas.  If we have light rain or snow, we  take the dogs outside if they want to go.  If they want to stay in that’s fine too! We have great inside areas with rubber matted floors, cots, air conditioning, and heat.  Anytime there is thunder or lightning all dogs come inside.

Q: What do I need to bring?

A: We provide everything your dog needs including fleece dog blankets, Kuranda beds, toys, and dishes for all of our boarders.  This way you don’t have to pack and transport around any bulky beds and other supplies. We also find this the most sanitary for the dogs, since we can change out the bedding as needed and personal items aren’t damaged.

Q: Where will my dog sleep?

A: We offer several options to dogs who are boarding, including many styles and sizes of crates and kennel runs.  We determine where your dog sleeps based on the needs of all guests and where everyone is most comfortable.  Imagine spending a whole day at a busy party. At the end of the day you likely are glad for the peace and quiet of your own room where you can unwind, relax, and get uninterrupted sleep. The dogs appreciate this too!

Q: Can my dogs sleep together?

A: In most cases, yes. If we can not have them in the same kennel, we will be sure to keep them next to each other.  Please let us know if your dogs should not sleep together

Q: Do you have multiple dog or long-term stay discounts?

A: We do not offer discounts for multiple dogs or long term stays.  We try to keep our rates as low as possible for all of our customers

Q: Do you do tours?

A: Our outdoor play yards and most of our indoor play areas can be seen through our lobby windows. We strive to keep all of the dogs at Gulliver’s feeling safe and secure. Dogs are moving through the building all the time, and some of our dogs are unsure of people they do not know.  Because of this, we do not offer walk through tours of our facility. We do have “Parent’s Night,” to give folks a chance to come in and see it all from your dog’s perspective, as well as meet the staff and parents of other Gulliver’s pups. Parent’s Nights are scheduled several times a year.

Q: Are there any breeds you won’t take?

A: No, we take all kinds!

Q: What if my dog has special needs?

A: Whether your dog is older and needs some quiet time or has more special needs we can talk to you on a case by case basis about what is best for your dog.

Q: Reservations?

A: Reservations for boarding are required as of 2/1/24.  Your dog’s boarding stay can be easily booked from our online platform. Reservations can be made anytime prior to a boarding stay, as long as all vaccine requirements are met for your dog to attend. If your plans change you can cancel at any time, there is no cancellation fee.  Daycare does not require reservations, though you may pre book your dog’s visits through your customer portal, if you like.

Q: Do you fill up?

A: We maintain a flexible facility and have additional staff available on call as needed.  We have never had to turn dogs away.