General
How do I book a reservation for my dog?
What information do I need to provide when booking?
- Your contact information
- Your dog’s basic details (name, breed, age, weight)
- Vaccination dates for Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella (dates only – no documents required)
- Any special instructions or needs for your pup
- Your preferred dates and services
How do I use a discount code?
How much do your pet boarding and daycare services cost?
What vaccinations do you require?
Do you require a temperament test?
Yes! Every dog must pass our temperament evaluation before their first stay. This assessment helps us:
- Ensure your pup will get along well with other dogs
- Determine which playgroups are the best fit for their personality
- Create the safest and most enjoyable experience for all our four-legged guests
The temperament test is $35 and typically takes 15-30 minutes.
Is someone on-site 24/7?
Absolutely! We provide round-the-clock care with staff members on-site 24/7. Your pup will never be alone.
Dog Boarding
What sizes of dogs do you accept?
Since we’re a small facility, we’re only able to accommodate small to medium-sized dogs (60 pounds and under).
Limiting size helps us keep things safe, calm, and comfortable for every pup in our care. If your dog is over the weight limit, we’re happy to recommend local facilities better suited for larger dogs.
How far in advance should I book dog boarding?
For weekday boarding or daycare, 48 hours notice is usually sufficient. For weekends, we recommend booking 5-7 days ahead. Keep in mind holiday periods fill up fast, so 2-3 weeks is the minimum.
What does your dog boarding facility look like?
Our East Downtown Houston dog boarding facility features private, crate-free retreat spaces with soft bedding, proper ventilation, and climate control. Unlike traditional kennels, our spaces feel more like cozy bedrooms than jail cells. Dogs have room to stretch out, stand up, turn around, and relax comfortably. We also have indoor and outdoor play areas where boarding dogs enjoy scheduled playtime.
What's included in your dog boarding rate?
Everything your pup needs for a fantastic stay! This includes:
- Private, comfortable sleeping quarters
- Multiple supervised play sessions daily (group or individual)
- Feeding according to your instructions (using your provided food)
- Administration of medications at no extra charge
- Late-night potty breaks
- Soothing music and DogTV
- Aromatherapy for relaxation
- Daily photo updates sent to your phone
What should I bring for my dog's boarding stay?
- Your dog’s regular food in pre-portioned bags or containers
- Any medications with clear instructions
- A favorite toy or blanket that smells like home (but nothing irreplaceable!)
- Your dog’s vaccination records if not already on file
- Emergency contact information
My dog takes medication. Is there an extra charge?
Absolutely not! We believe medication administration is part of standard care. Our staff is trained to administer pills, liquid medications, injections, and special treatments – all included in your boarding rate. Just bring the medication in its original container with clear instructions.
What if my dog gets anxious during boarding?
Our staff is experienced with anxious dogs and will provide extra comfort and attention. The private spaces, soothing music, and aromatherapy help create a calming environment. Having a familiar item from home often helps too. For extremely anxious dogs, we offer quieter areas away from the main hustle and bustle. If your dog has separation anxiety, let us know in advance so we can develop a personalized care plan.
How do you handle emergencies during dog boarding?
Your dog’s safety is our top priority. We have partnerships with local veterinarians and 24-hour emergency clinics. If your dog shows any signs of illness or injury, we’ll contact you immediately and, if necessary, transport them to receive appropriate medical care. We always collect emergency contact information and your veterinary preferences before your dog’s stay.
Dog Daycare
Do you require reservations for dog daycare?
While we do accept some walk-ins based on availability, we strongly recommend making reservations, especially for first-time visitors or during busy periods (holidays, summer months, weekends). Reservations ensure we maintain appropriate staff-to-dog ratios and can properly accommodate your pup in the right play group.
How do you group dogs in daycare?
Safety and fun are our priorities! We separate dogs based on size, play style, temperament, and energy level – not just by weight alone. This careful matching creates harmonious play groups where your dog can socialize without being overwhelmed or underwhelmed. Some examples of our groupings include:
- Small, gentle players
- Small, energetic players
- Medium, social players
- Large, easy-going players
- Large, high-energy players
What if my dog doesn't play well with other dogs?
No problem! Our individual play option pairs your dog with a dedicated staff member for one-on-one attention, games, and exercise. This is perfect for dogs who are shy, reactive, older, or simply prefer human company over canine companionship. They’ll still enjoy all the benefits of daycare without the stress of group interaction.
Do you require spaying/neutering for dog daycare?
For group play, yes. This requirement helps prevent hormonal conflicts and unwanted behaviors. If your dog isn’t spayed or neutered, they can still enjoy our individual play option with a dedicated staff member.
What does a typical day in dog daycare look like?
While we customize the experience based on your dog’s preferences, a typical day includes:
- Morning check-in and health assessment
- Supervised play sessions with appropriate playmates
- Structured activities and enrichment games
- Rest periods in quiet areas (usually midday)
- More afternoon play sessions
- Quiet time before pick-up so your dog isn’t over-excited when you arrive
Will my dog be tired after daycare?
That’s the goal! Most dogs come home pleasantly tired after a day of physical and mental stimulation. First-timers might be especially exhausted as they adjust to the new environment and activities. Don’t be surprised if your pup snoozes the evening away after daycare – that’s the sign of a day well spent!
Dog Grooming
What dog grooming services do you offer?
As the official dog boarding partner of Aussie Pet Mobile River Oaks, we coordinate professional grooming services right at our facility. These include:
- Basic baths with premium shampoo and conditioner
- Full haircuts customized to your preference or breed standard
- Nail trims and grinding
- Ear cleaning
- Teeth brushing
- De-shedding treatments
- Special skin treatments for sensitive skin
- Anal gland expression
- Face, feet, and sanitary area trims
How often should my dog be groomed?
This depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, lifestyle, and personal preference. Generally:
- Short-haired breeds: Every 4-6 weeks for a bath, brush, and nail trim
- Medium-haired breeds: Every 4-8 weeks for maintenance
- Long-haired or double-coated breeds: Every 4-6 weeks for dematting and maintenance
- Breeds that require haircuts (Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, etc.): Every 4-8 weeks
Can I combine dog grooming with boarding or daycare?
Absolutely, and many of our clients love this time-saving option! You can schedule grooming for any day during your dog’s boarding stay or coordinate it with a daycare visit. Your pup gets all their services in one place, and you pick up a clean, happy dog at the end of the day. Win-win!
How long does dog grooming take?
The time depends on your dog’s size, coat condition, and the services requested:
- Basic bath and brush: 1 hour*
- Full groom with haircut: 1.5-2 hours*
- Special treatments or severely matted coats: May take longer