We’re happy to answer all your questions about our training, boarding, and other canine services.
At Ruff Tales, we know that your dog is your best friend, and we’re here to provide the information you need to make smart choices regarding their care, training, and overall well-being. Below are answers to common questions about our services and how we can help your pup live a happy, well-adjusted, healthy life. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if the information you’re looking for is not included here!
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What services do you provide?
We are a full-service pet care facility, offering training, daycare, boarding, grooming, and food/nutrition services for dogs of all breeds.
What are your hours of operation?
We are open from 7 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday and from 8 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays. We are closed on Sundays, but our boarding staff is on-site to care for guests who are staying with us.
What vaccination records do you require?
To maintain a safe environment for guests, we require all dogs who visit us for any service to have proof of up-to-date rabies, Distemper/Parvo, and Bordetella vaccinations.
What breeds of dog do you work with?
Our team works with all breeds, and we can adapt our services to meet the unique preferences, temperament, and breed characteristics of the individual dogs we work with.
How soon can my dog start training?
We accept dogs as young as 8 weeks old into our training program. Starting young helps with early socialization, and learning basic commands establishes desirable behavior as well as strengthening pet-owner bonds.
How long is the puppy obedience program?
Our puppy obedience training is a 6-week program that meets once per week for a 1-hour session.
Do you do training sessions with older dogs?
Absolutely – we believe you can always teach an old dog new tricks! We provide a supportive, encouraging environment that helps dogs and their owners learn, no matter their age.
Do you work with reactive dogs?
Yes, and we specialize in Aggressive Behavior Modification training, working with dogs who exhibit behaviors like lunging, biting, or extreme fear. Our goal is to help reactive dogs become stable and safe companions.
Can I schedule private training?
Absolutely. We offer one-on-one lessons for owners who want a more personalized, hands-on learning process.
What type of reinforcement does your training focus on?
We use positive reinforcement techniques that help dogs of all breeds and ages learn good behavior. Positive reinforcement also helps strengthen the pet-owner bond by building confidence and trust.
How often should my dog get groomed?
In general, we recommend dogs visit our grooming facility every 4–6 weeks, but the ideal frequency will depend on factors like breed, coat type, lifestyle, and skin conditions. We’re always happy to consult with you to determine the best schedule for your unique dog.
Can you groom all types of coats?
Yes, we have a team of skilled groomers who understand how to work with all coat types and lengths. Our grooming services are tailored to your pet’s needs and can include bathing, haircuts, styling, nail trimming, teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and more.
Can your grooming services accommodate anxious or nervous pets?
Thanks to our background in behavior and training, we are extremely experienced with dogs who exhibit nervous or anxious behaviors. We use low-stress approaches and lots of patience and love to make the process as comfortable as possible for your pet.
What does your pet boarding service include?
When you board a pet with us, the service includes a safe place to stay, regular meals, plenty of exercise, and the attentive care of our staff. Our goal is to provide a comfortable, homey environment that keeps your pet comfortable while you’re away.
What do I need to pack for a boarding stay?
You will need to pack enough food for the duration of the stay, any medications your dog takes, along with instructions for administering the medication, which we will review with you when you drop your dog off. We also ask that owners include a few favorite toys and bedding to help your dog feel more at home during their stay.
How long can my dog attend doggy daycare?
Our daycare schedule is flexible to suit you and your pups’ preferences. Activities include walks (3 for a full day), private playtime with staff, and supervised group play. Playtime generally runs from 8:30 to 11:30 AM, followed by an hour-long break from 11:30 to 12:30, during which dogs get time to rest and recharge. Outdoor playtime resumes from 12:30 to 3:30, depending on the weather.
How is doggy daycare different from boarding?
With our daycare program, you can drop your dog off at our facility for a limited daytime stay and pick them up the same day. Boarding is for overnight stays and includes sleeping accommodations as well as playtime, meals, and other extended care services.
How do you divide or group dogs in daycare?
Our daycare program separates dogs by size, which helps ensure small dogs can engage in safe play together and larger dogs have plenty of room to romp without putting smaller guests at risk.