FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for drop off and pick-up? 

We’re open Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 6.00pm. 

You can pick up or drop off anytime during these hours..

Please be aware we cannot accept dogs in the building 

before 7.30am so if you are a little early please wait in 

your car until 7.30am.

Late fees apply if pick up after 6.00pm.

What is a recurring booking?

Regular visits to Happy Dogs will help your dog to socialise and behave well in a canine pack environment. Your dog’s behaviour should naturally improve the more often you bring him/her to daycare. The benefits of regular interaction with other dogs of all sizes breeds and sizes can significantly help your dog to learn how to behave and grow in confidence. If you commit to a recurring booking you have priority should you require any extra days or changes

Why do I pay if I cancel my appointment or cannot get in on the day I've booked?

No shows or short notice cancelations have been a particular problem over the years and we have had to address this. As a day care business with a maximum limit to the number of dogs we can have on any particular day we need to ensure we are at capacity all the time, If you cannot attend a booked day for whatever reason, we would previously have stood the cost of this. As a small business we cannot afford to do this and at the same time cannot offer your place to another customer at short notice. If you cannot attend we prefer, in the first instance, that you simply swap days, but on the unfortunate occasion that you cannot commit to your booking we have to charge in full.

In exchange for your commitment we in return will commit that should you need as short notice extra day, or a swap of days we will always honour and grant extra days to fit around your needs.

What is your referral scheme?

We always welcome new customers, historically most of our new dogs have been referred to us through recommendations. We often operate a referral scheme where we offer cash incentives for referring a new customer. Check our notice boards in reception for current offers and schemes.

What vaccinations does my dog need to attend Happy Dogs?

Your dog needs to be current on the following vaccinations: Canine adenovisrus (formerly called Virus Hepatitis), Leptospirosis, Canine Distemper/Parvovirus and Bordetella (Kennel cough). Please bring your dog's vaccination certificate with you when your dog first visits us. We also request that all dogs be regularly treated against fleas and worms.

What if my dog is not a good fit to play with other dogs?

No problem! Some dogs (like some people), are just not comfortable in a crowd. If we feel that this is the case, we will advise; your dog may then try a day with us and will be closely monitored. If they start to settle, or even enjoy their stay, we will continue; if however, your furry friend is obviously stressed or agitated, we will inform you. Sadly there are a few cases when day care doesn’t fit with a dog's temperament.

How old does my dog have to be to attend Happy Dogs?

At least 9 months old. We want to ensure that all dogs have enough time to develop a stable immune system before they are in a facility with other dogs. All dogs must be spayed or neutered.

Can my dogs stay together?

Yes, dogs from the same family can stay together at the same time. Please note that it is our policy to separate dogs during feeding time. If your dogs are staying for mealtime and prefer to eat together, please just let our staff know at check-in.

My dog takes medication. Are you able to give it to them?

We will discuss this on an individual basis.

Why is my dog so tired after staying at Happy Dogs?

Some dogs may be tired after daycare, this is because most of them play hard and get a lot of exercise while they are here. Even though they have rest areas available to them throughout our play arena, most of them choose to play for a good portion of the day, which may be more than they are used to at home. 

Why is my dog thirsty after attending daycare?

Your dog has access to water at all times while at Happy Dogs Daycare. There are several large bowls of fresh water available and these are changed regularly times throughout the day; but as with being tired, the increase in 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.

Can my dog get hurt playing in daycare?

Just like children who play in playgrounds, at daycare or at school, can get hurt from time to time, dogs playing with each other in a play area can get hurt too!! Dogs play with their mouths and paws and like to roll around on the ground with each other. Because of the training program our staff are required to complete, injuries are rare. If injuries do occur, you (not Happy Dogs Daycare) are responsible for any medical expenses for your dog, as you would be for a child. You need to be sure that you are comfortable with this before allowing your dog to play in the arena. Most owners find that the benefits of allowing their dog to play, far outweigh the risks.

Does my dog need to be on a lead when arriving or leaving Happy Dogs?

Yes! All dogs are required to be on a lead at all times when coming or going. Also we insist your dog wears a collar. We do not allow dogs to stay with us wearing a harness so please only attend with you dog wearing a collar and lead. This is for the safety of your dog, but also ensuring we keep the reception area calm and smooth running.

Is my dog able to go outside?

Yes! We have a secure outdoor area, where your dog can go to enjoy the fresh air.

My dog usually eats lunch at home, can he do this while he is at Happy Dogs?

Absolutely! Just bring your dog's food in a suitable container, clearly labelled with their name and let us know what time your dog has lunch. We will remove them from the playroom at lunchtime and place them in one of our private rooms to eat. We then require all dogs that eat lunch to rest for a while before going back into the playroom for their digestive health.

What if my pet becomes ill or requires medical attention during their stay?

In the event that your pet requires medical attention, we will refer to your contact list and make every attempt to reach you or your designated emergency contact. If we are unable to contact you, or your emergency contact and we feel your dog needs medical attention, we will transport your pet to their regular veterinarian, if close by, to ensure continuity of care. If your veterinarian is not near our facility, we will go to one of the local vet surgeries that we know.