Frequently Asked Questions
Note that we have scaled down and are not currently accepting new clients. Thank you for your understanding.
What dogs do you accept?
We will consider dogs of any breed or size that meet the following requirements:
We will consider dogs of any breed or size that meet the following requirements:
- Friendly and well-socialized.
- Educated (house-trained, knows basic commands, has some leash etiquette).
- At least 2 years of age.
- Able to walk off-leash in natural settings (after a preliminary assessment/bonding period).
Why don't you take dogs under the age of 2 years?
We work hard to maintain a grounded, peaceful and positive pack dynamic where every dog's needs are met and exceeded. Puppies and adolescents- while incredibly adorable and lovable and everything wonderful!- can disrupt this flow. They tend to require more of our attention and more ongoing training, which takes time away from the other dogs. They can also be disruptive to the other dogs when they are desiring to sleep or relax and no longer have the playtime stamina of a pup! We recognize that every dog is an individual and not all puppies are alike, however 9 years of experience has taught us that a firm rule is in the best interest of our business and our pack. Thanks for your understanding and we look forward to hearing from you after your pup's second birthday!
We work hard to maintain a grounded, peaceful and positive pack dynamic where every dog's needs are met and exceeded. Puppies and adolescents- while incredibly adorable and lovable and everything wonderful!- can disrupt this flow. They tend to require more of our attention and more ongoing training, which takes time away from the other dogs. They can also be disruptive to the other dogs when they are desiring to sleep or relax and no longer have the playtime stamina of a pup! We recognize that every dog is an individual and not all puppies are alike, however 9 years of experience has taught us that a firm rule is in the best interest of our business and our pack. Thanks for your understanding and we look forward to hearing from you after your pup's second birthday!
What makes Doggie Dao 'holistic'?
First and foremost, we honor your dog as the unique, sentient, wonderful (at times complex) being they are! We also provide a healthy environment by using eco-friendly cleaning products and detergents, and organic gardening methods (our walls are even painted with zero-VOC paint). Pack Mama Arielle is a certified practitioner of Reiki and flower & gemstone essences, which help to ensure optimal well-being for the dogs (including helping new pack members to acclimate). Everything from the dog treats to dog shampoo we buy are wholesome, clean products we feel really good about. Overall we believe in providing quality, conscious, loving care for your dog on every level and are proud to deliver on this premise!
First and foremost, we honor your dog as the unique, sentient, wonderful (at times complex) being they are! We also provide a healthy environment by using eco-friendly cleaning products and detergents, and organic gardening methods (our walls are even painted with zero-VOC paint). Pack Mama Arielle is a certified practitioner of Reiki and flower & gemstone essences, which help to ensure optimal well-being for the dogs (including helping new pack members to acclimate). Everything from the dog treats to dog shampoo we buy are wholesome, clean products we feel really good about. Overall we believe in providing quality, conscious, loving care for your dog on every level and are proud to deliver on this premise!
Can you describe an average day at Doggie Dao?
First thing in the morning the doggie door is opened to allow overnight guests to meet the day and handle any restroom needs (after they've been greeted and kissed by us of course!). We then receive the day's daycare dogs (typically from 8 - 9am).
Our big, fun, highly anticipated pack walk occurs sometime between 9 and 11am, usually at Lake Los Carneros park just down the street. Alternatively, we walk at Douglas Preserve a few times a week, hike the lower portion of Inspiration Point Trail, or play at the dog park at Tucker's Grove. (If it's a rainy day, we will walk the dogs on-leash in our neighborhood during a break in the storm, if possible.)
After the walk, dogs that are dining with us will be served breakfast (separated from one another as appropriate), and the rest of the pack will receive a post-walk treat.
Nap time organically follows, and the dogs have a choice selection of dog beds, or (if under 30 lbs) living room furniture.
The dogs always have access to our backyard via the doggie door (non-doggie-door-users will have door service by us), where they can sniff around, play, sunbathe, or lounge in the shade as their heart desires.
Daycare pickups typically occur between 3:30 and 5:30pm, after which we serve overnight guests their dinner (usually around 6pm). They can then snuggle up and relax while we make our dinner, and we all pile into the living room together to enjoy a movie or crossword puzzle (between and during affection sessions with the pack!). Just before bed (10 - 11pm), the dogs have a formal bathroom break outside, after which they are rewarded with a treat. (We close the doggie door when we go to bed.) The dogs sleep comfortably in the open concept living/family rooms (again, on dog beds or if small enough, on furniture), in easy hearing distance of our open bedroom door.
First thing in the morning the doggie door is opened to allow overnight guests to meet the day and handle any restroom needs (after they've been greeted and kissed by us of course!). We then receive the day's daycare dogs (typically from 8 - 9am).
Our big, fun, highly anticipated pack walk occurs sometime between 9 and 11am, usually at Lake Los Carneros park just down the street. Alternatively, we walk at Douglas Preserve a few times a week, hike the lower portion of Inspiration Point Trail, or play at the dog park at Tucker's Grove. (If it's a rainy day, we will walk the dogs on-leash in our neighborhood during a break in the storm, if possible.)
After the walk, dogs that are dining with us will be served breakfast (separated from one another as appropriate), and the rest of the pack will receive a post-walk treat.
Nap time organically follows, and the dogs have a choice selection of dog beds, or (if under 30 lbs) living room furniture.
The dogs always have access to our backyard via the doggie door (non-doggie-door-users will have door service by us), where they can sniff around, play, sunbathe, or lounge in the shade as their heart desires.
Daycare pickups typically occur between 3:30 and 5:30pm, after which we serve overnight guests their dinner (usually around 6pm). They can then snuggle up and relax while we make our dinner, and we all pile into the living room together to enjoy a movie or crossword puzzle (between and during affection sessions with the pack!). Just before bed (10 - 11pm), the dogs have a formal bathroom break outside, after which they are rewarded with a treat. (We close the doggie door when we go to bed.) The dogs sleep comfortably in the open concept living/family rooms (again, on dog beds or if small enough, on furniture), in easy hearing distance of our open bedroom door.
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What should I bring for my dog's stay?
Your dog's collar/harness and enough food for the duration (we appreciate the inclusion of a measuring scoop), along with any supplements or medication. We have extra food bowls, but you can bring their food bowl if you choose (we always provide bowls of fresh water). Optionally, you can also bring their bed and/or a favorite toy (so long as they are prepared to share with pack mates!). We prefer to use our own leashes, but you are welcome to leave their leash with us for your convenience upon return. Feel free to bring treats, however we ask you not to bring bones or rawhides. Thanks! Where are you located?
We are conveniently situated just a few minutes off the 101, between Lake Los Carneros park and the Fairview Shopping Center. We'll give you our address when scheduling a meet-n-greet or drop-off. |
What do you charge?
Please see our Services & Rates page for a detailed breakdown.
Please see our Services & Rates page for a detailed breakdown.