Frequently Asked Questions

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How early can I start my puppy?

Vaccines are typically started with the breeder between 5-7 weeks of age. Once your dog has received the next round of vaccines with you (7-10 weeks of age) plus 10 days for the vaccines to take effect, we recommend starting socialization.

We recommend avoiding locations frequented by dogs with unknown vaccine history such as pet stores and dog parks. To minimize illness transmission, we ask pups enrolled in the Playcare program to stay away from dog parks and pet stores, even after completing vaccines, because they are exposed to younger pups at Playcare.

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior concluded after extensive research that the behavioral risks of a poorly socialized puppy are greater than the medical risks. Robert K. Anderson (DVM, Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and Diplomate of American College of Veterinary Behaviorists) put it this way

"In fact; the risk of a dog dying because of infection with distemper or parvo disease is far less than the much higher risk of a dog dying (euthanasia) because of a behavior problem."

Playcare, private lessons and group classes begin for puppies as young as 10 weeks. We require proof of vaccination for all dogs in the facility and utilize hospital level sanitation protocols.

What is your cancellation policy

Group class and boarding cancellations must be made 7 days prior to start date. If cancellation is within 7 days and the spot can be filled from the waitlist, a refund will be given minus $20 cancellation fee.

Playcare and private lesson cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance for refund eligibility.

What do I pack for my puppy?

Playcare

  • Collar and leash

  • Food if your pup is still eating a lunchtime meal

  • Toy for nap time

Group Class

  • 100 tiny soft treats. Larger treats can be cut down to the size of your pinky nail prior to class

  • Treat bag

  • Leash & collar. Harness or head halter can be worn if using for training

  • Portable bed/blanket for your dog to settle

  • One non-squeaky toy to occupy your pup while we talk

Boarding

  • Food

    • Single meal bagged portions or Container with appropriately sized serving scoop.

    • Refrigerated food must be pre-mixed and separated into single meal portions.

  • Toy - 1 kennel-safe toy your dog can have during nap time

  • No need to bring bedding or water dish. Food dishes are provided. If your dog eats out of a slow feeder bowl, feel free to bring that along.

  • Please pack all items in one bag no larger than a reusable shopping bag

Private Lessons

  • 100 tiny soft treats. Larger treats can be cut down to the size of your pinky nail prior to appointment

  • Treat bag (recommended)

Where are you located?

Playcare and Boarding are located at 8776 Morse Lake Ave SE in Alto, MI.

Carpool pick up meets at 6797 Cascade Road SE in the Fowling parking lot.

Group classes meet in Cascade Hospital for Animals at 6730 Cascade Road SE.

Private lessons take place in your home (inside or outside) or on-site at a pre-decided location such as a park.

Can you tell me more about the transport service?

Playcare & Boarding carpool transport windows are 7:30-8:00 am and 4:00-4:30 pm.

Cost for transport is $10 and includes round trip on applicable days.

Carpool runs Monday through Thursday.

Look for our van in the Fowling parking lot at 6797 Cascade Road SE (near Chow Hound).

Does training cost more if I have more than one dog?

Private training is paid by session. If you want to work with two dogs, we are happy to do so!

Group class enrollment reserves student space. Two dogs would need two separate spaces reserved. Each dog in class is required to have a separate handler. If you bring two dogs, please bring two handlers as well.