Can I see the complete facilities where my dog will be staying?

Yes, we welcome you to make an appointment to view the daycare centre with your dog before enrolling.
However, this appointment will need to be made over the weekend when the centre is closed to daycare dogs.
We have people at the door on a daily basis asking to see inside, and don't fully understand our reasoning why it's safest not to! So…. Here it is!!

There are many reasons why we do not allow members of the public into the playrooms while the dogs are here. Firstly, some of our regulars are nervous of strangers, and while they are at our centre, their wellbeing and happiness is paramount.

In the past we have allowed people to come in and see the dogs on quiet days. The dogs present would quickly become very over excited and hyper. This can lead to aggression as the chemical make up of a dogs brain when overexcited and aggressive are virtually the same. We have never had a fight between dogs at the
centre, and our aim is to never have one. Therefore we manage the energy levels in the playrooms very carefully to avoid over excitement.

Overexcitement also leads to excessive barking, which we try to avoid for the sake of our neighbours.

As 'dog-napping' has become more prevalent in Cork in recent times, we have reassured our dog owners that their dogs are very safe and secure here with no threat of being stolen. For that reason we keep all doors locked at all times, and again this is another reason why we don't want strangers knowing which breeds/how many dogs are here on a given day.

We have many people calling to the door with their children asking to see the doggies. We don't have the time for this, as our day is broken down to a schedule that we stick to and if we allowed this we would never get anything done!

We have public access to footage of our centre here www.youtube.com/creedonsdoggiedaycar where you can view the day to day goings on here at Creedons.

We are aware that, despite the many reasons for why we do not allow midweek tours, some people are still annoyed not being able to see the dogs. I'm sure this has resulted in us losing business in the past, but we put the wellbeing of our dogs above gaining extra clients, and think all of our doggie owners would be more than happy to give us glowing references if you would like to ask them!

How can I be sure that the play space is clean, odour & disease-free, comfortable and safe for the stated capacity of the centre?

We clean and disinfect twice daily, during doggies nap time and nightly, regardless of how many dogs have visited. We have specialised floor buffers and wet hoovers to ensure that we are continually using clean water when cleaning. We use dog friendly disinfectant, and our monthly newsletters will include up to date photos and video footage of Creedons Doggie Daycare.

How do dogs wind down from the furry of activity and avoid potential conflicts?
Dogs nap quietly in their individual crates in the Creedons Doggie Daycare Relaxation Room, complete with special relaxation music for dogs, dimmed lights and aromatherapy. The Relaxation Room is also used as a time out option for over excited doggies.

Is there a schedule of activities and safety rules?
Yes. Our day is broken up into areas of play, rest, feeding and more. And we always keep a watchful eye on canine good manners. No misbehaviour will be tolerated. Any dog that is acting up will be crated for five minutes until he or she has calmed down, and their owner will be informed of their day upon collection.

Are the management and staff mature, knowledgeable, courteous, professional and patient at all times?
We will employ a team of very qualified individuals at Creedons Doggie Daycare, and all staff are certified in Canine First Aid and CPR.

Are the dogs supervised at all times?
ABSOLUTELY!

How are the corrections and praise administered and what provisions are there for avoiding fights?
Creedons Doggie Daycare always monitors the dogs' behaviour to try to avoid incidents. However, if any dogs are acting up they will be put on time out to get a chance to chill out.

Is there an in-depth interview to determine relevant background, behavioural and health information including confirmation of spay/neuter proof of vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, etc.? Moreover, is the information kept up to date?
On your first day we will obtain information on all aspects of your dog. Documentation of vaccinations and spay and neuter certificates are required. We have a computerized reminder system for vaccination updates. We spot check every dog that comes to day care, for any signs of fleas. Flea preventatives are strongly recommended.

Do I need to enrol my dog in Daycare in order to use The Dog House Grooming Parlour?
We do not require that dogs be enrolled in Daycare to come to the Grooming Parlour. We do, however, require that they be current on their vaccinations. All of our Grooming Parlour services are by appointment. Dogs who want to come for Daycare or Boarding must be enrolled.

What exactly is off leash play?
Exactly what it sounds like... dogs are not kept in kennels during the day. We will use crates for a “time out” and many dogs like to go into a crate for a nap during the day. Our dog gymnasium provides doggies with ample space for running and playing.

How do you make sure that the dogs get along?
If a dog is not going to get along with other dogs, then he/she cannot attend daycare. We have special requirements that have to be met by all of our attendees and an interview process that they do all have to go through before their first session. The dogs are always supervised when they are playing together to ensure that everyone is safe.

My dog is small. Will he be separated from the big dogs?
Dogs are split into two groups determined by their size, and we find that most dogs play best with dogs of similar size.

My dog loves other dogs and has never had a problem. Does he still have to pass the enrolment assessment?
Yes, we interview all of the dogs prior to their first visit to Creedons Doggie Daycare whether it is a Great Dane or Chihuahua . We do this to ensure that all of the dogs who attend Daycare get along.

My dog doesn't like other dogs. Can he still come and be separated?
Unfortunately, we do not offer individual boarding. If your dog does not get along with other dogs and/or has shown aggression towards another dog, then our facility is not the one for you. We recommend touring any facility prior to scheduling boarding.

My dog has had the kennel cough (bordetella) vaccine and still came down with kennel cough at another facility. Do they really need it?
Yes. The vaccine is about 85% effective and is similar to the human flu vaccine in the fact that it protects us, but not from all strains of the virus. When dogs are stressed (like they are many times in a traditional kennel environment), their immune system can be compromised making it easier for them to come down with kennel cough.

My dog doesn't have a problem with fleas so I do not use flea preventative. Is this okay?
We require that all dogs attending daycare be on year round flea preventative. While it is unlikely that your dog will get fleas while at daycare, there is always a possibility anytime your dog is exposed to other animals. If your dog is on flea preventative and is exposed to a dog with fleas, you won't have to worry about having a problem at home. Flea preventative is for your protection.

Can I drop my dog off at daycare whenever I want?
We are happy to have you bring your dog when it is convenient for you; however, we do require reservations, so please call first. If we are unable to answer your call, please leave a message so we will expect your dog. Having an accurate attendance count allows us to plan for our day. We also require that all attendees are collected before 6:45pm.

My schedule varies. How important is it that I bring my dog on the same day or days every week?
Yes that is not a problem. Once your dog has passed the three day assessment they will be familiar with the environment and will remember how much fun daycare is when they come back. If you want to book your dog in for regular days that's not a problem, but if you only need our service randomly every few weeks that's ok too, just give us a buzz and we'll book you in!

Can I pick up my dog from Daycare whenever I want?
Collection time is 5.40 - 6.45pm, Monday through Friday. Early pick up can be facilitated so please ask about this with a member of staff.

Why does my dog have to go through a behavioural assessment?
We are a “cage free” facility which means dogs are required to interact with other dogs at all times. It is our goal to create a harmonious environment for all, so an initial introduction is needed to ensure a good fit.

Not only is this assessment in place to ensure we reduce the risk of aggressive behaviour within the centre, it will also help to initially see how they cope in an environment without you. Dogs are very social animals and it is only natural for them to form an attachment to their humans. Being at day care can assist in building their self confidence and in turn learn to socialise with many sizes, breeds and personalities. Where a dog shows dominant behaviour, which is not necessarily aggressive, but potentially places the other clients in a fearful position, the centre will make an assessment whether development is possible with the assistance of you at home or whether the risk is too high to grant membership. This assessment will put your mind at ease knowing that every dog is assessed and receives tailored care from the results of not only their assessment, but ongoing improvements within day care.

What happens during the Admission Behaviour Assessment?
To enrol your dog at Creedons, they must first be neutered (if older than 6 months), fully vaccinated (including the kennel cough vaccination which you normally have to ask your vet for separately), and your dog must be friendly and social towards other dogs. Next, you can book your dog in for their three day doggie daycare assessment. During the assessment your dog will come to daycare for three consecutive days. On the morning of their first day your dog will be observing the play group through a fence. Once your dog is calm and comfortable in the presence of the other dogs, we will introduce them to one dog. Your dog will be watched closely for stress signals. If your dog becomes stressed the other dog will be removed and we will try again later. All going well, once your dog and the other are playing nicely we will introduce a second, and a third and so on, all the time making sure that your dog is comfortable with the rate of progression. With some dogs this will take an hour, some up to two days, each dog progresses differently.Once your dog has joined it's suitable play group, it will be observed to see how nicely it plays, to see how it reacts to commands from the daycare staff. The three days of assessment gives us enough time to get to know your dog, and determine if doggie daycare is right for them. It will also give your dog enough time to become comfortable here, and to learn that when they come to Creedons, they are collected again on the same day, which is great for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety.Once your dog passes the daycare assessment they can then use our at home boarding facility. Your dog will come to daycare during the day and then home with us in the evening. They will be treated as one of our family, and spend the night indoors watching tv and relaxing with the other dogs.

Are vaccinations required?
All dogs must have up to date vaccinations, and proof of this must be presented upon enrolling. Please consult with your vet.

Can I bring my own dog food?
We prefer that you DO bring your dogs food so they will not have any diet change. Most dogs will be very hungry after burning off so much energy, so we recommend that you increase their daily quantity of food, and provide a packed lunch for your dog in a sealed, labelled container.

How far in advance do I need to make reservations?
We ask for a minimum of 24hours notice.

What happens if my dog becomes ill or injured?
Our staff will be trained in canine first aid and will be able to assess the situation and administer first aid as needed. We will make every attempt to contact you with all available contact numbers and if we are unable to reach you we will contact the emergency contact number listed in your file. If the situation is an emergency we will immediately go to a veterinarian for the health and safety of your dog.

Who is responsible for the payment of any injury or illness?
Dogs, like children, can get hurt or injured while playing. This is just in the nature of dog play, and while we do everything we can to prevent any injuries, they will happen from time to time. We suggest that you take out pet insurance to cover any veterinary bills that may arise. This is also recommended incase your dog contracts any illnesses later in life.

If I suspect my dog is ill should I still bring him/her to daycare?
No, for the health, safety and well being of the entire group any signs of sneezing, coughing, unknown rashes or oozing or leaking sores should be tended to by a licensed veterinarian prior to your dog joining the group. If a dog shows any of these signs while at Creedons Doggie Daycare we will remove them until they have a health certification.

Where are you located?
We are on Vicars Road behind Tramore Road. We are in the same industrial estate as Gilabbey Veterinary Hospital.

What benefits does doggie daycare have over regular dog walking?
Daycare has many benefits for your dog over regular walking. It is well known that dogs burn more energy while playing with other dogs than going for a walk. Playing within the secure, supervised environment of daycare allows your dog to be a dog. They can play with other dogs in a natural way, without the hindrance of either dogs being leashed. Dogs at doggie daycare are all fully up to date with vaccinations, regularly treated for worms, fleas, and ticks, and go through a rigorous behavioural assessment. This means that you can be sure that the dogs your little ones interact with are healthy and trustworthy, something you can not be sure of with dogs you meet out on your walks.

Where will my dog go to the toilet?
Here at Creedons Doggie Daycare we have a large secure outdoor toilet area.

Why is it important for my dog to socialise with other dogs?
Dogs are social animals. From three weeks of age they are learning so much from their littermates, how to play, how to bite without hurting, how to how to use their limbs, how to interact with other dogs, how to vocalise with other dogs, the list is endless. Once your pup goes home with you, he or she no longer gets to socialise 24/7 with its peers. If your dog's opportunities for socialisation are limited from this point onwards you will find that they do not know how to approach strange dogs, how to play safely, and how to enjoy being a dog! Here at Creedons Doggie Daycare, playing with other dogs will teach your little ones how to greet and play with other dogs with confidence.

Will my dog be bored cooped up all day?
No way!! Games are played, old friends are reunited, new friends are introduced, dog carers are expecting cuddles, tricks are to be learned, the yard is to be explored, and there are toys to be played with!! While dogs thrive on routine, we will regularly introduce new elements to the doggies day to keep them on their toes!

How much do you charge?
Check out the individual pages for each service to find out the prices.

Why does my dog have to have annual kennel cough vaccines? I heard they don't work.
Kennel cough complex (canine infectious tracheo-bronchitis) is the name that refers to a group of viruses and bacteria that are very contagious and infect the respiratory tracts of dogs. Infected dogs have a dry, hacking cough that can last from days to weeks. The infectious agents are released into the air every time the sick dog coughs or sneezes. Dogs that share the same air are at risk for infection. Consequently, outbreaks commonly occur anywhere many dogs are housed closely together. Luckily, most cases of kennel cough resolve on their own, rather like a cold for us. On occasion, supportive medications are needed. The kennel cough vaccine that your dog received was designed to protect her from Bordetella bronchiseptica, one of the more common bacterial causes of the disease. Canine parainfluenza virus and canine adenovirus can also cause respiratory illness, and even though your dog will have received a kennel cough vaccine, it can still contract the above vaccines. You and your veterinarian are taking all the right steps to protect your dog from kennel cough. Unfortunately, not all causes of kennel cough can be prevented. As stated above, if your dog does contract a form of kennel cough, because it is healthy it is unlikely to affect your dog long term. If you suspect that your dog does have kennel cough, please phone us for advice and refrain from bringing your dog into daycare.

Contact us here for further details