What are the benefits of dog daycare and dog boarding? What happens at dog daycare?
At Pawderosa Ranch, we value our team members immensely. They offer years of experience and specialized training that ensure your dog is lodging in the most comfortable, secure and customized atmosphere possible.
Discover what happens at dog daycare and what Ali says are some of the best benefits of dog daycare and dog boarding at Pawderosa Ranch!
What special certifications or trainings do you have?
I also work as a Service Dog trainer! I have found that my experience with training has really come in handy at the Ranch. I have been able to help my fellow Enrichment Specialists further understand dog behavior and training, which ultimately leads to happier dogs!
How long have you been with Pawderosa?
I have been with Pawderosa since September, 2016 and the Lead Enrichment Coordinator since November, 2016.
Walk me through a normal day for a dog lodging/ dog boarding at Pawderosa.
FUN FUN FUN!!! Our main purpose at the Ranch is to create an enriching, happy, and healthy environment for the dogs. Our lodging is customized to best fit the needs of our doggy Ranchers. We offer up to three 2-hour group play sessions for the dogs, which can include anything from learning new things (i.e. sit and gate/door control, follow the leader, Trick of the Month, etc.), to toy time with balls and other fun toys, to splashing around in the water with our pools and sprinklers, to romping and playing with all of their friends!
What is your favorite part of working at Pawderosa?
I don’t think I can choose just one! Obviously being surrounded by dogs all day is a huge bonus!! It’s hard to have a bad day when you have so many wagging tails around! I also love my coworkers. We truly have a great sense of teamwork, and it is so clear that everyone is here for the dogs! I also love that Pawderosa does not turn away dogs who may be deemed “difficult” or “naughty.” We always give all of our dogs a chance to play in the group play, but for the Ranchers who would prefer to have one-on-one time with the Staff, we are more than happy to oblige with lots of individual playtime, belly rubs, and TLC.
What are some of the most frequent questions (and answers) you are asked by guests?
I get a lot of questions about how we determine which group their dog will play in. Our extensive evaluation process ensures that our dogs are placed within groups that are conducive to their happiness. We always make sure that the dog is happy, confident, and comfortable before we move on to the next step of our evaluation. Sometimes dogs move along quickly and are playing with the group in no time, but sometimes we have some dogs who may take a little longer, and that’s okay, too! We will never force a dog into a situation, and more often than not, guests who bring their dogs in with doubts about their confidence are pleasantly surprised when we tell them how much fun their fur baby is having.
What distinguishes Pawderosa from other dog lodging/ dog boarding San Antonio facilities?
Pawderosa is such a unique experience. The team truly loves dogs, and it is very clear to see that. We really take the time to make sure that each and every dog is happy, regardless of their Ranch activities for the day. We will always accommodate the dogs’ needs from feeding to medication to any physical limitations they may have. We constantly strive to create the best environment for the dogs, and guests will feel that from the moment their dog is greeted at the door to the moment their dog comes home happily pooped!
How does the team seek to help the dogs with separation anxiety?
A lot of guests are worried that their dog may suffer from separation anxiety when dropped off for Daycare or Boarding. I always tell them that they would be surprised how quickly their dogs forget about their nerves and dive right into the fun! We are extremely accommodating and really take the time to get to know each dog. If a guest brings in a small toy or blankie from home, we will be more than happy to put that in their Bunk for the duration of their stay. If a new guest is coming in for Boarding, we always recommend that they bring their dog in for a few days of Daycare beforehand so that they can be evaluated and become accustomed to the Ranch before their stay.
What should a potential dog owner expect to see in Pawderosa’s exercise/play programs?
I really love the structure of play at Pawderosa. With our two hour rotations, the dogs get two hours of fun and play, followed by two hours of rest and relaxation in their private Bunks or Suites. Having their day broken up with some downtime, the dogs are able to recharge and refuel so they can have even more fun! The dogs’ days are always filled with interactive fun and enrichment while they are out playing and lots of snuggles and belly rubs while they are resting. Definitely expect for your dog to know what “Pawderosa” means and beg you to come to the Ranch!
At Pawderosa Ranch we welcome all dogs to come play and stay with us! Each rancher is cared for by a specialized staff who understand the benefits of dog daycare and lodging and who are passionate about making Pawderosa Ranch the best dog boarding in San Antonio. We can’t wait to see your pup!
