Kottage Kennels & Suites Frequently Asked Questions & Policies:
May I take a tour and what services do you provide?
Yes. We encourage you to see firsthand our facility and how we interact and care for our pet guests. We provide overnight pet boarding, daycare, bath/nails, and full-service grooming services. We only SCHEDULE TOURS weekdays M-F at 11am & 2pm.
Are all breeds welcome?
We DO NOT take pets that are not potty trained, excessive barkers, need crating, destructive, climbers, have severe anxiousness, or need hospice care! We are a boarding facility- not a training facility.
We believe there are no bad breeds. The disposition of the pet is what is determined. We reserve the right to refuse daycare, boarding or grooming to any pet whose aggressive or destructive behavior is a threat to other animals, kennel staff or warrant repairs to the building. We can refuse pets who are overly anxious, excessive barkers, require excessive cleanup, or otherwise are not a good fit for boarding in our facility. We want all our pets to be safe and comfortable! Pets that show aggression or are destructive to property will be removed from premises at the owner's expense to include damages and all reserved dates of reservation. Emergency contacts are required in case your pet needs to be picked up for a medical or behavioral emergency- a local contact that has been notified and is prepared to pick up your pet.
Do you accept puppies?
Yes. We love puppies! We welcome all dogs of at least 12 weeks of age that have completed their series of puppy vaccines, i.e. Bordetella (2 boosters), Distemper/Parvo (DHPP-minimum 3 boosters), Rabies (1) and de-worming or a negative fecal exam. All of these need to be completed 15 days before boarding, daycare, or grooming (following our 15 day vet window).
What are your OFFICE HOURS?
*Monday – Friday: 8:30 am to 12:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm (by appointment only)
*Saturday: OFFICE CLOSED-no arrivals or departures
*Sunday: NEW HOURS- starting January 1, 2023
4:00pm-6:00pm (by appointment only- arrivals and departures)
**All arrivals and departures are by appointment only within these hours.
What do I need to make a reservation?
For first-time guests, we require a NEW CLIENT APPLICATION, vaccination records, and a successful TEST DAY to be completed and received before reservation is finalized. The required vaccinations may be found below. Complete and submit the information on the NEW CLIENT APPLICATION- which will be emailed to us when submitted. Like any hotel reservation, a credit card number will be placed on our secured client software to hold the reservation. An advance deposit may also be required (for holidays). We will call you to obtain this information once we receive the new client application and vaccination records.
We will call to schedule a TEST DAY (drop off AM, pickup PM). TEST DAYS allow us to have multiple interactions with your pet- giving and picking up toys and food, leashing up your pet, teaching them to use the doggy door, taking them out to the play yard, observing the dynamic between multiple family dogs, visiting with all our staff. TEST DAYS are paid full days- drop off 8:30-12 and pick up 4-6 ($40- 1 or 2 pets). Our owners and staff reserve the right to refuse any pet for boarding- it may be that they are not comfortable, excessive barkers, have multiple accidents, aggressive with neighbors, aggressive with staff, have extreme anxiety, etc. We want your pet to be comfortable and happy and the boarding setting is not right for every pet! We reserve the right to CANCEL your boarding appointment or NOT BOOK your appointment if the TEST DAY does not go as planned.
We have busy times around spring break (March, April), summer months (June and July) and major holidays. We recommend making reservations (and new CLIENTS setting up your pet's TEST DAY) as soon as your dates have been determined since we book up very quickly! We are a small facility with 4 small dog runs, 19 large dog runs, and 1 cat suite. We have a small staff to limit multiple handlers of your pet and to get to know them well and each one's individual needs. We wish we could accommodate everyone- but we have limited space and staff. Call early or submit a Reservation Request to discuss availability!
What vaccines are required?
DOGS: Rabies (yearly or 3 year)
Bordetella (every 6 months) **Bordetella vaccines are required to be given every 6 months**
DHLPP (yearly or 3 year)
FECAL or deworming (yearly for intestinal parasites)
CATS: Rabies (yearly or 3 year)
FVRCP (yearly)
FelV (yearly)
How far in advance may I make a reservation?
Advanced reservations may be made at any time. Spring breaks kick off our year so our busy months are March, April, June, July, November, December, and January. Call early or submit a Reservation Request to discuss availability!
When is boarding check-in and check-out? click here
Pets may be picked up or dropped off during normal business hours by APPOINTMENT ONLY (8:30-12/4-6pm). When your reservation is confirmed- you will receive a confirmation email with drop off and pick up times. Refer to your EMAIL for your appointment. Call as soon as possible if days/times need to be changed. Nightly boarding charges start after 12:00pm.
Check-In for First Time Boarders
We want our first time boarders to have a great experience so we like them to arrive during our morning office hours- 8:30am-12:00pm. This will allow them time to settle in, get used to their surroundings, eat dinner, as well as a full day of fun with new friends.
How do I determine the size of accommodation for my pet?
We will help you choose the right accommodation depending on your pets needs- whether it's in the Little Campers Suites (3' x 10'), Retreat Suites (5' x 18'), or Adventure Suites (5' x 18'). Though most customers would prefer all their family dogs to board together in one suite- this will be determined by your pet coming for a TEST DAY.
Do you require a bath prior to boarding?
We trust all owners are responsible for the care of their pet. Pets, who arrive extremely dirty, have fleas or ticks; will receive a bath at the owner’s expense. If fleas or ticks are abundant, we reserve the right to refuse to board your pet. Boarding and cancellation fees may apply.
Flea and tick control - Kottage Kennels & Suites policy is to have a flea free environment for the safety of your pets and our staff. All pets must be current with flea and tick protection. If your pet arrives with fleas or ticks, they will be treated at the owner’s expense before being placed in their room.
What if my trip is delayed?
We understand that sometimes unforeseen circumstances happen where you may be delayed and we will try to accommodate your pet for the extended stay. It is always a good idea to have a local relative or friend available to pick your pet up if we do not have availability- as your emergency contact. Please call as soon as you are made aware about travel changes- either wanting to pick up earlier or later.
Do I need to bring my pets’ food?
Kottage Kennels & Suites provide an all natural dog food to our boarders, “Purina Exclusive Lamb & Rice", for an additional daily fee. We encourage you to bring your own food so your pet is more comfortable, if they are on a special diet, or have an overly sensitive stomach. We definitely recommend this for elderly pets and puppies. Please package your pet's food from home in a sealed container (plastic container, plastic bags, original bag with top that seals, etc.). Homemade food should be bagged per feeding in zip lock bags for the refrigerator or freezer.
Do you administer medications?
Yes. Medication is extremely important and requires proper handling. Be sure to bring any special medicines your pet is currently taking with the prescription bottle/box along with dosing instructions provided by your vet. All medication must be dispensed out in a daily/weekly AM/PM pill box container. At time of arrival it is required that the owner of the pet gives a detailed description of instructions and what the medication is for- to staff. There is no additional charges for most medications and delivery to your pet. Pill pockets are available in the office for purchase. Pill box containers are available at check-in. Administering insulin or other injectables are at an additional cost- $2.50 for each shot.
My pet has health issues; can they still come?
We do take care of many special needs pets. Contact us directly to discuss the specific issue and we can make a decision at that time. If your pet has been seen by their veterinarian for a contagious illness or diarrhea, they may not board or be groomed for a minimum of 15 days after they completed their round of medication, symptoms have subsided or been released by the treating veterinarian. They will also need clearance from their veterinarian that the illness is no longer present. Pets with skin problems, or hair loss must have a skin scrapping or release from their vet that they have nothing contagious. Pets with canine papillomaviruses warts will not be able to be boarded or be groomed due to being contagious. These warts are different than the warts an older dog gets as they age.
Will you administer insulin or allergy shots?
Yes, at the customer’s request and instructions. For those pets which need insulin or allergy shots, please place vial in its original packaging in a zip lock bag and label the zip lock bag with your pets name on it. Provide a needle and syringe for each shot given during the duration of their stay. It is also recommended that a couple of extra doses be left just in case the pet is left longer than originally planned due to unforeseen circumstances. We do charge a handling fee of $2.50 for each shot given.
What do you do in case of illness or injury?
We will contact you at the emergency numbers you provide, contact your emergency contact person, contact your local veterinarian to consult and will transport your pet to your personal vet or our on call veterinarian for appropriate treatment (Primary Pet Care- Dr. Kevin Smith). For any life threatening illness we will take your pet to the nearest qualified veterinarian or emergency clinic. Transportation is available to transport dogs in case of any emergency. Transportation charges will apply.
Do I need to bring my pets’ bowls, crate, bedding?
Kottage Kennels & Suites is happy to provide everything for your pets needs and you do NOT have to bring these items. If you would like to bring something special from home be sure the item is not fluff filled and small enough to easily fit in the washing machine such as a towel or baby blanket. Toys are encouraged- Nylabones, Kongs, and your pets favorites that will not be destuffed or ingested while they are here. Items not permitted are rawhide and rope toys. All personal items shall arrive new or freshly cleaned. Kottage Kennels & Suites will refuse any and all items which arrive soiled or too large. Kottage Kennels & Suites is not responsible for any personal items which may become damaged or lost. Due to limited storage space, customer’s kennels or crates will be sent home once pet arrives unless otherwise agreed upon.
Do you provide outdoor play?
Yes. Our facility features 2 indoor (little daycamp and medium/large daycamp) and 2 large outdoor play areas for your dog to run and play as well as toys that we can offer both inside and outside.
Does my pet get to go outside, if so, how often?
They have the opportunity to go out 24/7. Each pet guest may spend as much time outside as they would like due to having their own outside patio by utilizing a doggy door to their inside/outside accommodations. Even if the weather is unfavorable they may go to their outside area since the outside area is under the building's roof. Dogs love their private patio! Daycare guests will also go out in the big play yard at least 2X a day. Overnight guests will go out in the big play yard at least 1X a day- individually, with their family group, or with other socialized and approved dogs of a similar size and temperament.
Will my dog get to interact with other dogs?
Yes. We love to see our pet guest having fun with new friends. Interactive play between pets is based on temperament and grouped by pet size. Large dogs (unless from the same family) are not included in smaller dog groups. All dogs are acclimated beforehand to make sure they can interact safely with others. Our experienced staff will make your dog feel comfortable, happy, and safe. For the safety of our daycare pet guests, socialization testing for first time off leash group play participants is required to ensure they have proper socialization skills. We reserve the right to refuse those from group play if they are pushy, play rough, mouthy, bark excessively or hump their friends. We will be happy to look at alternative daycare options other than group play- such as Day Stay in a run with a patio.
Do you board dogs and cats that are not spayed or neutered?
Yes. We do board dogs that are not spayed or neutered, however we do not board any pet that is in-season, pregnant, or nursing. If your dog is not spayed or neutered- this may limit their play time interaction with other dogs- at the discretion of our staff. If your dog MARKS- they may not be able to share a run with their family member dog (because of clean up). If your dog MARKS excessively- there will be clean up charges at departure.
My female dog is in-season/heat. Can she stay?
To stay overnight, participate in daycare, or to be groomed the pet must NOT be in-season. Female dogs must be at least 1 full week after their cycle is complete- to come for boarding or daycare. If they come into season during their stay- we will call you to make arrangements to pick up your pet.
What are your rates? click here
Kottage Kennels & Suites offers various room types. Rates are determined by the type of accommodations. Rates do include feeding 2 x a day, basic medication needs, treats, daycare and playtime in the play yard. Advanced deposits will be required for longer boarding reservations (more than 2 weeks) , and holidays. Family pets boarding together receive multiple pet rates; however we reserve the right to separate the pets in separate runs if this becomes necessary for any reason. If separation is necessary the second pet goes to a full rate for the accommodations provided. We reserve the right to refuse to board any pet that is a health threat to other animals or whose aggressive behavior is a threat to other animals or kennel staff. We are a crate free environment so if a pet needs to be crated due to aggressive or destructive behavior, an additional charge per day will apply for after hours turnouts. Pets that are extra large, elderly, and special needs may also have additional charges for care.
What is included in your rates?
When your dog stays with us overnight, we make them feel like they are at home! Our overnight rates include:
*Private sleeping accommodations complete with a cot, blankets if pets do not chew/eat, or toddler bed, interlocking mats on the floor if needed for traction, arthritis, access to water, access to their private patio
*A private, covered, synthetic grass outdoor patio with access to their inside accommodations by using a doggy door.
*If your pet is pet friendly and would like to play with others- they may participate in playtime with others in the play yard. If they do not play with others- they can still go to the play yard to play ball, sniff, and interact with our staff.
*All medications administered as directed, food prepared hot or cold just like at home- for no additional charge.
For overnight pricing click here
Will you teach my dog to use the doggy door?
Yes. 99.99% of the dogs have no problem using the doggy door. Dogs from 5 pounds to 150+ pounds use it with no problem. It only takes a few times of showing them how to go in and out. Once they figure it out- they love it!
Are there additional charges if my pet is not potty trained?
Yes. All puppies and dogs MUST be 100% potty trained for outside (unless they are completely puppy pad trained). Puppies should have the concept of going outside to potty on their own. We will not be able to accommodate incontinent dogs. Each pet has a doggy door with an outside run so they may use the bathroom 24/7. If they choose not to use it, excessive clean up charges will apply ($5 per cleanup). If there are two or more dogs sharing a suite, we reserve the right to separate if there are numerous accidents. Daily rate charges per suite will apply. We reserve the right to refuse your pet's stay if they are not potty trained or are incontinent.
Incontinent/Multiple Accidents
Since our suites are indoor/outdoor, our inside floors are designed just like home. We do not have a drain system for those who are incontinent, not potty trained or inconsistent in using pee pads. Additional staff and time is required for these situations- to keep the suite clean and sanitized to our standards. Excessive clean up charges will apply.
What precautions are taken to prevent communicable diseases?
At Kottage Kennels & Suites our pet guest’s health is our #1 priority. We require that all vaccinations be up-to-date prior to arrival. Any other visible health issues must be addressed prior to boarding or grooming. We strive to keep accommodations and surrounding areas clean at all times. We use a veterinarian approved sanitizing solution on all accommodations as well as providing fresh blankets for each pet guest. All food and water bowls are washed daily in a sanitizing dishwasher. While we make every effort to keep our guests safe and healthy, please keep in mind that anytime pets are near one another there is a possibility for communicable diseases and parasites. We also require a 15 day window for any vet visit (inside the vets office/building) to include being groomed at the vet office since sick dogs are treated at the vet. This lessons our risk of something being brought into the kennel and your pet going home sick.
How much is grooming and what does that include? click here
Call us to discuss your pet's grooming needs! We also offer Standard Bathing and Nails services.
We do not accept handwritten vaccination records! Please have your Vet fax us your pet’s vaccination records (478-994-7699) or email your pet's vaccination records (kottagekennels@reynoldscable.net). We will not be able to board/daycare/groom your pet(s) if these records have not been received or has been into the vets office 15 days prior to arrival date.
Required:
- Rabies
- DHPP
- Bordatella current within 6 months
- Fecal/Deworming
What is a typical day of boarding like?
7:30 am: Breakfast and morning medications are administered as directed.
8:30 am: Daycare guests start arriving for the day. Playtime begins! Dogs join their playgroups in safe supervised play areas for socializing and fun! Drop offs begin for overnight boarding dogs.
10:00am: Room service! All our pets rooms and water are cleaned and bedding freshened up.
12:00pm: Rest Time, Lunch for some guests
1:00pm: Patio service! Outside areas are cleaned and sanitized.
1:00pm: Outside Play time in the Play Yard for overnight guests.
3:00pm: Dinner is served to our overnight guests. Afternoon medications are administered as directed.
4:00pm: Play time resumes- dogs join their playgroups, have individual time, or time with their family groups in the Play Yard.
6:00 pm: Nighttime kisses and lights out for the night! Dogs are still able to go in and out to potty throughout the night using their doggy door and patio area.
*All pet guests have time throughout the day to enjoy the outdoor play yards either by themselves, with their playgroups, or family groups.
Late Arrival or Early Checkout:
Arriving on a later date, or checking out earlier than the scheduled days reserved, will result in being charged for the days actually booked (if we are NOT notified by phone/talking with an office member). We thank you for keeping this is mind when making your reservations so the dates reserved are accurate. A confirmation email is sent to all customers so we encourage everyone to make sure the dates entered are correct. Call as soon as possible if changes need to be made.
Cancellation Policy:
- Non-holiday reservations require a full 7-day advanced notice of any change or cancellation before the schedule check-in date to avoid being charged.
- Holiday reservations are a full 14-day advanced notice of any change or cancellation before the scheduled check-in date to avoid being charged.
Advance deposits:
If Kottage Kennels & Suites are given the proper advanced cancellation notice, advance deposits will be turned into credit on the customer’s account to be used on future reservations for up to 1 full year.
If Kottage Kennels & Suites are not given the required notice of cancellation of holiday reservations, the deposit will be forfeited, and additional charges may apply and be charged to the credit card on file. We have a long waiting list for holidays and can usually fill these rooms if advance notice is given.