Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a selection of frequently asked questions. If you still have questions, please call us on 07853 605075 or email office@dogbarndarlington.co.uk.
How can I register?
You can register your dog by calling us or completing our online form. The more information you can give us the better! Once we receive your form, we will give you a call to set you up on our super easy bookings app.
Once you’re set up, you can schedule an introductory welcome session for your dog to come down, meet the team & settle in.
What will my dog be doing all day?
As we like to make the most of the beautiful countryside surrounding us, there will be planet of time outdoors in our secure fields for exercise, enrichment, socialisation & mental stimulation. We split the days up with lunch breaks for those staying all day, plenty of opportunities for snoozes and some downtime periods for cuddles with the team members caring for your dog.
How can I see what my dog has been up to?
You can follow us on social media for daily updates.
Will my dog be able to rest?
Of course! We have plenty of beds and cosy areas for your dog to have a snooze and we do encourage all dogs in our care to have forty winks throughout the day.
What if my dog doesn't like being with other dogs?
As we are a group day-care setting, if your dog isn’t social or shows any aggression towards others, we are probably not the right place for them and they may be better placed with a 1-1 service.
Our welcome sessions are super important as this allows us to assess whether or not your dog is happy here. We will always continue to monitor each dog during every visit to ensure dogs in our care are comfortable and getting the best out of their experience. Feedback is always provided to owners on collection for full transparency, a little bit like a report for kids!
How do I book?
Our App (powered by My Pet Walker) will be shared with you following your introduction call. Then bookings can be made with ease via your computer or mobile device with payment taken at the same time. For those who are less good with technology, our team can book you in from our end. The App is super easy to use and will even remind you when your pet’s vaccinations are due.
Do you accept puppies?
Puppies are welcome to join the daycare following an initial assessment once they have completed their second vaccinations and received their flea/worming treatments.
Can you feed my dog?
Of course! We just need to know all information regarding volume, feeding times, eating habits and we can make sure this is given if you bring their food with you when dropping them off. Dogs are fed separately within our enclosed suites to avoid any competition or resource guarding.
Can I bring my dog's favourite toy or blanket?
We would advise you not to bring your dogs favourite toy with them as a large number of disagreements between dogs can be due to guarding or possessive behaviours. It’s often best that they play with neutral toys that we provide within their groups, don’t worry, we have plenty!
If you feel that your dog may be more comfortable with a blanket from home to rest or snuggle with, this is fine. (We cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage of these things).
What if I don't collect my dog on time?
We kindly ask that owners are mindful of our closing times and try their best to adhere to this. However, we know that things happen and sometimes you may be late. We will look after your four-legged family member until you arrive but we do apply a £5 charge for every 5 minutes past the collection time. Please call us to let us know you are running late so that staff can alter their arrangements where necessary.
What if I need someone else to pick up my dog?
We will agree a ‘safe word’ with you when you enrol your dog. This should be a secret password that only you and those with permission to collect your dog know. This is just to safeguard your precious pups!
Does my dog need to be neutered/spayed?
We strongly recommend that male dogs are neutered to join the day care. This is to reduce possible tension or competition between dogs. It is recommended that your females are spayed and if your female is in heat they will unfortunately not be permitted into daycare until their season has finished.