FAQs
Check out our FAQ section to help you with any questions you might have concerning Willow Creek Kennels.
Boarding
Is it better to board my dog or leave them with a pet sitter?
"Pet sitter" implies someone "sits" with your pet the entire time you are gone. In most cases, however, it would be better to use the term "pet checker" as most only check on your pet once or twice during a 24 hour period. Many times there is little or no supervision, exercise or companionship. The pets may also suffer from separation anxiety and extreme boredom. The pet may become ill or howl or bark non stop with no social interaction or routine. Pet may suffer needlessly due to delayed treatment for illness or accident when only checked on twice daily. Pet may bar entry of pet checker- "protecting" his home, or hide under a bed preventing adequate care. Pet may destroy home, yard, belongings or even forget house training. Pet may run away to find his owner or hurt himself trying especially during thunderstorms or fireworks.
Should I try to take my pet with me on vacation?
Many motels will not accept dogs, and those that do charge extra and become very upset if your dog annoys their other guests. Pets can become very ill as a result of traveling because of frequent changes in water. Many dogs suffer heat exhaustion while locked in the car when owners go sightseeing, eating, or shopping. The national parks have an abundance of lost dogs that somehow got away from their owners and couldn't be found before the family had to leave for home. Another serious risk is exposure to various parasites and diseases such as heartworm, ticks, hookworms, fleas, and mange.
What if my dog doesn't go on concrete or you don't want them to go on concrete?
We have plenty of grassy areas and also gravel areas so we can accommodate these needs. All areas are secure and safe to let them access to potty.
What if an emergency does happen? Do you use our vet?
We have a well educated staff and they have the knowledge to notice a dog in danger. It is not part of our services to diagnose or prescribe. All emergencies are handled as quickly as possible. We always try to let the owner know but in extreme emergency situations we rush the pet to the nearest vet to begin treatment immediately. If it is something non life threatening such as blood in the urine we try to let you decide who should handle that service and contact your vet accordingly.
Will my dog smell after being in a kennel?
During boarding it is possible that your dog might step in their stools or urine and become dirty. This can happen in the cleanest of facilities. Also, some of the finest disinfectants available for sanitizing are not always the most pleasant smelling and the odor may cling to your dog's coat. Bathing or grooming are recommended before picking your pet up.
Can I visit my dog if staying for a long period of time?
It is not advisable to visit pets when boarding because often like a child at daycare a dog is excited and ready to go home. They will then mope, not eat or even get ill once back in the kennels. Feel free to call and check, ask to speak with your pet or call daily to see how things are going.
My dog hates going to kennels? What can I do to make my dog more at home?
The vast majority of your dogs view staying at the boarding facility as a vacation. Relax and enjoy your trip. The psychological preparation of a dog for boarding is best. Make it a positive by encouraging the dog and make it a happy trip to the kennel. If you are still not sure, try using our daycare and leaving for a stay just during the day. After a few visits your dog will accept the way we do things at the kennels. The psychological preparation of a dog includes getting your dog use to new people and experiences (socialization). Boarding your dog gives him some of these freeing qualities. A pet owner still needs to remember that it is not benifical to lament over the dog in the front office before leaving, nor should suitcases come out before the trip- both of these things cause the dog to be unnecessarily upset.
My dog always seems to loose weight while at the kennels? Is it natural for them to chew up their favorite toy?
This is one of the reason we no longer accept bedding because "Killer" decides while boarding to tear up his bed that he has slept in for years. Eating habits change under stress and a dog assimilates food differently. Some will eat like canaries at home and vultures at a boarding facility. Others can lose weight though eating well or lose weight by not eating enough. Life in a boarding facility can be very exciting, and some dogs lose weight because they run the weight off as the charge around barking at other dogs and having a wonderful time.
What do I need to expect when getting my dog home?
Most dogs are happy to see their owners and upon arrival at home will be tuckered out enough to crash for the next several hours. Do not feed your dog (though they will act hungry after getting back to familiar turf) for at least three hours, and then be careful not to overfeed. Also excitement might cause your dog to pant a lot and become thirsty. Give a few ice cubes to hold him or her over till feeding time. In a happy, excited state, excessive food and water consumption can cause problems.
Training
Will my dog remember me after the training?
All dogs remember all owners whether you have owned the dog two days or two years. They are often so excited to see the owners they forget some of their training which is the reason for the DVD.
What age should I have my dog trained?
Any dog that is healthy is trainable. Dogs learn by repetition so the more time they do it the correct way the better they will be, so starting at a young age is better. Training dogs must have completed all rounds of shots before participating in our training program.
Is it better for me to train the dog? The dog will not take commands from me if they learn them from you?
These common myths are often a point of distress for owners. Is it better for you to train my dog, yes it is always better for the owner to train the dog IF they have the time to do it. Dogs are often like kids they learn from doing the correct behavior over and over again. If you have the six weeks (not just the one day out here once a week) to devote to doing the training then I would suggest you do the training yourself. If you know you have a busy schedule or are planning a vacation it is the perfect time to have your dog trained here at the kennels. Not only will they have an enjoyable stay they will get individual one on one attention everyday. You will also be able to pick up a pet that behaves better and is more manageable.
A dog will take commands from anyone if the person giving the commands knows how to give them. You have to know how to handle the leash and once you give a command be prepared to back it up and make it happen. This is what we will help you to learn in your follow up lessons.
Can you housebreak my dog?
Most dogs are not housebroken because they are not on a regular schedule. While your dog is being taught manners for the two weeks in-house training we can put them on a schedule and you can follow the routine once you get them home.
My dog is showing signs of being aggressive towards people, dogs, or me?
This is a serious problem and one you do not want to take lightly. Our trainers have over 30 years of experience and would be glad to give you advice on this. These dogs take special attention and our trainers will be happy to discuss this with you and set up an appointment. Call the kennels now for a free evaluation.