Frequently Asked Questions

1. What kind of dogs are a good fit for your home?

We’re best suited for adult and senior dogs who are friendly, fully house-trained, and comfortable in a quiet home setting with 2 or 3 other dogs. Dogs must non-aggressive, generally healthy, and able to be left alone for short periods (up to 4 hours). We’re not a good fit for dogs with ongoing barking or howling that are difficult to settle. Very active dogs with high exercise needs may not be the best fit for our calm home home environment. Dogs must be fully continent, as we’re not equipped to provide incontinence care. 

 

2. Do you accept puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with special medical needs?

 

Although we love puppies, we only welcome dogs 12 months and older. We accept relatively healthy seniors whose daily needs are similar to those of most adult dogs, aside from routine medications. Dogs requiring intensive, medical care, frequent or overnight potty breaks, injections, overnight medications, mobility issues, or incontinence management may be a better fit with a veterinary or specialized medical boarding provider. 

 

3. Do you require a trial stay?

 

We don’t generally require a trial stay. In some cases, if we’re unsure about a dog’s fit after the meet-and-greet, we may recommend an overnight trial stay to make sure everyone is comfortable before a longer booking. You are also welcome to request a trial stay if it would help their dog feel more comfortable. Trial stays are billed at the full overnight rate and are non-refundable.

 

4. What if my dog gets sick during their stay?

We monitor each dog closely and will contact you promptly if we notice any changes in health or well-being. We are Pet CPR certified and prioritize proactive, attentive care at all times.

For added peace of mind, we’re about four miles from North Peninsula Veterinary Emergency Clinic in San Mateo, a well-established 24-hour emergency hospital. SAGE Veterinary Centers in Redwood City, roughly seven miles away, provides 24-hour specialty and advanced critical care services when more complex treatment if needed. If a dog requires boarding at a veterinary hospital or a higher level of supervision than a home-boarding setting can provide, we’ll provide transportation, coordinate care, and keep you informed. All veterinary and related costs are the owner’s responsibility.

 

5. Do dogs need to arrive freshly bathed?

Since we care for dogs in our home, we ask that each pup should arrive clean, bathed within the past 7 days, and free of fleas or strong odors. If a dog arrives noticeably dirty or in need of grooming, we may provide a bath or arrange a bath at a groomer during their stay depending on their size. The cost will be added to your invoice.

 

6. What are your deposit and cancellation policies?

 

A 50% deposit is required to hold your booking. (If the visit is 2 days or less, 100% of payment is due.) For non-holiday stays, please cancel by 12:00 noon at least 3 days before the stay for a full refund. For holiday stays, cancel by 12:00 noon at least 10 days in advance. After these deadlines, the deposit is non-refundable due to limited availability and difficulty of rebooking. The remaining balance is due 7 days before the stay. We strongly recommend planning carefully before booking

 

7. Are you licensed, insured, and background checked?

We are licensed and are fully insured through Small Business Insurers of the Carolinas with Liability coverage up to $2M. We began providing pet care through Rover, where we were required to complete identity verification and background screening before offering services.

 

8. What are your drop-off and pick-up times?

Our standard drop-off and pick-up hours are between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. We can sometimes accommodate late pick-ups until 8:00 pm (for a $25 fee), however, we don't schedule pick-ups or drop-offs after 8:00 pm. 

 

9. What vaccines are required for boarding?
 

• Rabies
• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

Proof of current vaccinations is required prior to your dog’s stay.

We ask that all vaccines be administered at least 7–10 days prior to boarding. This gives your dog time to build immunity and helps avoid stress-related reactions during their stay.

For everyone’s safety, we’re unable to accept dogs who are not up to date on required vaccinations.
 

10. What should I pack for my dog's stay? 

 

Here’s a list for you to prepare for your pup’s overnight stay. Please label all items with your dog’s name as there may be other dogs staying with us at the same time. 

 

•    Enough of their regular food to last for your dog’s stay, plus a couple extra portions in case of travel delays. 

 

•    Please don’t bring full-size food bags. Space is limited, and this helps keep everything fresh, clean, and organized.

 

•    Optional: Your dog’s favorite treats (we also have a variety of high-quality, healthy treats available).

 

•    All medications and supplements clearly labeled with your dog’s name and instructions. Please include extra dosages in case of travel delays.

 

•    Leash and/or harness

 

•    Secure collar with ID tag attached (required even if your dog usually wears only a harness for walks).

 

•    During your dog’s stay, we’ll attach a temporary AirTag to their collar for added safety.

 

•    A crate is not necessary, but you are welcome to bring one if your dog prefers to sleep in one at night.

 

•    No need to bring bowls, poop bags, toys or treats (unless desired). We have clean bowls, healthy treats and plenty of toys for fun and enrichment.

 

•    Lastly, feel free to bring along any other items that you believe will help your pet feel more at ease, whether it's their bed, a special treat, or even a piece of clothing with your scent on it. We want your pet to feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible during their stay with us, so anything that reminds them of home is always welcome!

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11. What is the Peak Periods/Holiday Schedule?

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            2026 Holidays and Peak Periods

 

            New Year’s Day:  Jan 1 – Jan 2

            Martin Luther King Jr. Day:  January 16 – 19  (Fri – Mon)

            Presidents’ Day Weekend and Lunar New Year: February 13 – 18 

            Spring Break and Easter Peak Period:  March 27 –  April 12

            Memorial Day Weekend:  May 22 – 25 (Fri – Mon)

            Independence Day:  July 3 – 5 (Fri – Sun) 

            Labor Day:  September 4 – 7 (Fri – Mon)

            Thanksgiving:  November 25 – 29 (Wed – Sun)

            Christmas and New Year’s:  Dec 20 – Jan 2, 2027

              

             A surcharge of 25% will apply to these dates.

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