What should I do when I drop off and pick up my dog?

Please keep your dog on a leash when coming in and leaving our facility. You and your dog should check-in with the employee at our front desk/counter. An employee will then take your dog and place him/her into a play group, as appropriate. When you pick up your dog after daycare, please stop at the front desk to check-out. An employee will then bring your dog out to the lobby or front hallway to meet you.

Are there specific drop off and pick up times?

Drop-off for daycare is by noon

Drop-off for boarding is by 2:00 PM

Boarding pick-ups after 10:00 AM will incur a charge for daycare

Do I need to make reservations?

You only need to make reservations if you want your dog to stay overnight.

(Although we often do have space for overnight dogs-so last-minute bookings are usually no problem)

What happens if I am late to pick up my dog? 

Please call if you are running late. We will do our best to accommodate you.

Late fees are as follows:

Monday-Friday: $15 at 7:16pm and again at 7:31pm. After 7:31 your dog will be placed in overnight boarding – with late fees and boarding fees accrued.

Saturday: $15 at 5:16pm and again at 5:31pm. After 5:31 your dog will be placed in overnight boarding. With late fees and boarding fees accrued.

Why does my dog need to be brought in and out on a leash? They always listen to me.

Some dogs (and many people) do not like to be approached by dogs. While your dog may behave perfectly, another dog may not. Also, our parking lot can sometimes get quite busy, and some people unfortunately drive faster than they should. Please don’t be offended if we ask you to leash your dog. If you need to borrow a leash there are some hanging by the front door.

What do they do all day?

The dogs are assigned to a play group based on size, temperament and play style. The dogs may play indoors and outdoors throughout the day. The dogs play with each other, climb on the doggy play equipment, and interact with the staff. If a dog is tired, they may take a nap on a cot in a quieter part of the room or go into an overnight suite for a nap.

Will TopDog feed my dog during the day?

Feeding dogs in this type of setting is generally not recommended because of possible aggression and health issues. In addition, dogs are generally not interested in eating as they are more interested in playing with all of their friends. Most of our daycare clients eat meals at home before and/or after daycare. However, if you feel your dog needs a meal while here, we are happy to feed them. Please bring the food, pre-measured, in a container or baggie with your dog’s name on it. Drop off the food at the Front Desk at time of check-in.

There is a lot of barking when I drop off and pick up my dog. Is it always like this?

If It seems like a “zoo” when you drop off and pick up your dog. Be assured it is not like that all day.

When we have visitors such as a new dog or new person, the dogs often get very excited and you may hear and see this excitement. There is always playing and some barking going on, but the dogs actually settle down quite a bit once the new dog is introduced into the play areas and our human visitors either leave or are very quiet for a few minutes.

Will my dog get sick by being around so many other dogs?

We clean constantly using hospital grade disinfectants and we stay on top of any possible illness and take necessary precautions. However, just like with kids at school or daycare, viruses may be passed between dogs. If your dog comes down with anything contagious, he/she must stay home until your vet says it’s okay to return.

My dog is not feeling well; should he/she still come to daycare?

If your dog has had unexplained vomiting, diarrhea, green discharge from eyes or nose, coughing, lethargy, etc, please do not bring him/her to daycare. Consult with your veterinarian.

Can my dog get hurt playing in daycare?

Just like children who play on playgrounds in daycare or at school can get hurt from time to time, dogs playing with each other 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 trained staff in the playrooms injuries are rare. If injuries do occur, you (not TopDog) are responsible for any medical expenses for your dog, as you would a child. You need to be sure that you are comfortable with this before allowing your dog to come to TopDog. If you are not, we can recommend some very good dog walkers. Most owners find that the benefits of allowing their dog to play outweigh the risks.

But what happens if my dog gets hurt?

Our staff is trained in dog CPR and first-aid. If it’s an emergency we will transport him/her to the nearest available vet immediately and then call you and/or your emergency contact. If it is a non-emergency, we will try to reach you or your emergency contact first to see how you would like us to handle it.

Where should I park? 

Feel free to park against the building for drop-off and pick-up. Look for the sign.

Can I call and check on my dog?

Sure, call anytime! We really don’t mind. You can also view our webcams, available at our website.

Will you give my dog a bath while they’re there?

Yes, just let us know you drop them off and you can get a discounted bath.

When should I pay for the services?

Payment is due at pickup. We accept MasterCard, Visa, cash, and check – please do not carry over a balance to the next week.

We strongly suggest keeping a credit card on file to expedite the check-out process.

Why is my dog so thirsty after attending dog daycare?

Your dog has access to water 24/7 while at TopDog. There are several large bowls of fresh water in the play area. But as with being tired, the increase of 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.

Why is my dog so tired after staying at TopDog?

Some dogs may be tired or even a little sore after a day or two of daycare. This is because most of them play hard and get lots of exercise while they are here. 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, which may be more than they are used to at home.