FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you currently accepting new clients?   Please text us! To keep our pack small and happy, we only welcome 2-3 new dogs each year and do not onboard new clients from November through March.    

What size and type of dogs do you accept?   Happy Dog specializes in small (<25 lbs), non-shedding dogs with hair (not fur), such as Maltese, Yorkie, mini poodle or Lhasa apso. A good rule of thumb: if your dog requires regular haircuts, they’re likely a good fit for us.

Do you require a meet-n-greet?   Yes, we want our home to feel like familiar territory when your dog arrives for their first stay. A quick, 20-30 minute (free) visit is scheduled when no other dogs are here, so your dog can explore peacefully.

How are arrivals and departures handled?   Feel free to park in our driveway and please text an ETA when you're on your way. This allows us to corral any current guests to minimize transition stress for everyone.

What should I bring for my dog's stay?   Bring your dog's food and any medications. Of course, if your dog has a comfort item or bed they prefer to sleep in, you are welcome to bring those as well. We provide bowls, waste bags, toys, and cozy lounge spots- we also keep belly bands and extra food on-hand (just in case).

Do you accept puppies?   All Happy Dog guests must be at least 1 year old.

What is your cancellation policy?   We prioritize flexibility for you. There are no fees for canceling, even day-of.

Do you administer medications?   We give medications, including pills, eye drops, and topical treatments. We do not provide injections, such as insulin.

Are you closed on any holidays?   We are not closed for any holidays, except for our own scheduled travel.

Do you use crates?   Rarely. We use a crate for brief periods to ensure safety- such as when a contractor is visiting.

What is your backyard like?   We have a fenced-in yard (chain link) accessed by 9 steps from our deck. We have motion sensor lights along the fence line.

Can my dog stay alone- without other dogs?   Yes, we can provide a stay for your dog without other guests. This option is available for an additional fee, which is detailed in our Services & Rates section.

Do you accept same-day bookings?   We do for established clients. For new guests, we require a meet-n-greet prior to their first stay.

How many dogs do you book at a time?   Typically, we host 1 or 2 dogs at a time. Occasionally, a few times a year, we have 3 dogs at the same time.

Is there a discount if we have two dogs?   If you have two dogs staying with us, we offer a 15% multi-guest discount on the total cost of the stay.

What payment methods do you accept?   We take Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, cash, and personal checks.

Will I receive updates while my dog is with you?   Absolutely. You'll receive photos and updates to keep you connected while you're away.

Is Happy Dog smoke-free?    Yes, we have a 100% smoke-free and vape-free home.

How early can I drop-off and how late can I pick-up?   7:00 am / 9:00 pm

How far in advance should I book?   Feel free to book at any time, up to a year in advance.

Do you accept senior dogs?   As long as  they are comfortable navigating stairs and do not require diapering. Our guests typically have a final backyard break between 8:00 - 9:00 PM and then settle in for the night. We are unable to accommodate dogs that require regular, middle-of-the-night potty breaks.

Do you have children?   No. However, we occasionally host our teenage niece or nephew.

Do you charge extra for holidays or peak times?   No. Our rates remain consistent year-round.