Our boarding kennel license through the PA Dept of Ag is for up to 25 dogs (Boarding Kennel Class II). However, the daily number changes. Average daycare days have 10-15 pups, depending on each dog and their personality. We generally do not take more than 7 dogs at a time for boarding, but cater each stay to the specific dog staying with us to ensure a safe and suitable playgroup.
Yes! Glad you asked. In Pennsylvania, anytime a dog is watched outside of the dog's own home for monetary compensation, a kennel license (from the PA Dept of Ag) is required. Even if you watch 5 dogs a year, a kennel license is a must if money is exchanged. We are licensed with the PA Dept of Ag, and you can check ALL kennel license holders inspection reports online - it is free and public knowledge. We are a Limited Liability Corporation, insured and properly zoned within our township.
Great question! The majority of time spent during daycare is outdoors. We are outside in all seasons, as long as it is safe for your pup. We do have climate controlled indoor space as well (our home living room) where we spend nap time and play time during inclement weather. But dogs are dogs here - if the temps aren't on the extreme side of hot or cold, we are outside in rain, snow, etc.
All dogs that are 'new to you' must be in their new home for at least 2 weeks before coming for a trial. This allows the pup to adjust to you, and allows YOU to understand some of their behaviors and personality.
Nope! With the exception of our children's bedrooms, the dogs have access to our entire home. If I am making dinner in the kitchen, you can bet I have many eyes staring me down, hoping I drop some crumbs. If your dog sleeps on the couch at home, they are welcome on ours. We model your dogs home life as much as possible while they are staying with us.
Nope! We are an open style family style option. This means we do not have separate areas to keep dogs that don't get along with others. We are happy to recommend facilities in the Lehigh Valley that do offer this type of boarding - just ask!
Since this is our home, all visits are strictly scheduled by appointment only. We do not accept drop ins, and all new pups MUST complete a trial prior to staying with us.
Dogs ARE left alone at certain points while boarding with us (daycare days have full care during daycare hours). When dogs are left alone, it is generally for 2 hours or less for when we have a doctor appointment, grocery shopping runs, etc.
Yes! We love our senior friends. We provide lots of romping for our guests who thrive on getting energy out, but always have an open couch or bed for those who prefer to enjoy spectator sports. As long as they are mobile, able to maneuver a full flight of stairs, not incontinent, not visually impaired and meet our standard requirements, they are welcome!
While a group setting may be a great fit eventually, open boarding and daycare is not the appropriate place to start. I recommend working with a trainer to determine where your pup falls in terms of socialization.
In any group play setting, there are some cons:
We appreciate that you would like a tour! However, we do not allow humans in for tours as it causes stress to the guests that are staying with us. Since we are home based, and do not have a specific 'dog' area, we want to provide a low stress environment for those staying with us. You can check our Facebook and Instagram pages for MANY photos and videos. Keeping the pups happy and stress-free is our number one priority!
Yes! Tara is comfortable and experienced giving all medications, including subQ/IM injections. As long as your pup is determined healthy for our style boarding, and meets all other requirements, they are welcome. Diabetic dogs are accepted on a case-by-case basis, as the stress of an environment change can cause volatile insulin levels. It is recommended to have someone stay in your home with your dog if they are diabetic (if possible) to ease their stress level.
Yes! We follow the guidance of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior and accept puppies. Puppies must meet our base requirements, along with the following:
-must have received (a minimum of) one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior
to their first day
-must have received (a minimum of) one de-worming
-stay must be 8 hours or less, with a half day preferred
-must be comfortable in a crate to ensure proper rest is had during daycare
Animal Crackers | 4229 Butternut Dr Walnutport PA 18088
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At the current time, we are accepting:
-new boarding guests
-new daycare guests with a pickup time by 4pm