Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located?
We are located in Mountain House.
What areas do you serve?
We serve the Bay Area. We offer free pick-up and drop-off services.
Do you take all sizes and all breeds of dogs?
No. We do not accept Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Terriers, Rottweilers, Dobbermans, Akitas or Chows. However, there are some exceptions which can be discussed with Erin. We aren't trying to be discriminatory, but services are provided in our home and this is what we are comfortable with.
What is in-home boarding like?
In-home boarding takes place in our home and would be pretty much like if you left your pet with a friend. We have a large (almost 4000 sf) home in Mountain House. There is ample space for the dogs and the house is usually kept between 69 - 72 degrees. Most of the time there is someone at the house with the dogs. Occasionally we may need to run to the store or go on a short errand. If this occurs the dogs are crated. The dogs are fed along with ours and special diets are no problem at all. We have cooked chicken, steak, made all sorts of mixtures and concoctions... whatever you feed your dog at home, we will do as well.
We try to work with your dog according to his or her personality. We firmly believe that all dogs have their own unique personalities and needs and it is our job to discover them and provide your pet with the best possible service.
Do you separate big and small dogs?
No. We provide a home environment for the dogs; not a kennel. Most dogs find their own space in the house. We rarely have had to separate a dog but if so, it is usually because of personality conflicts and not size. Many small dogs have big personalities. We have been able to successfully mix Chihuahuas with Labs and Min-Pins with Retrievers regularly. It really depends on the dogs.
Does my dog have to be neutered/spayed?
Spayed, yes. We definitely prefer a neutered dog as they are less apt to mark and exhibit dominant type behaviors. However, we do have some intact male clients that are large breed dogs who are very submissive and are a pleasure to have at the house and get along very well with small breeds. It really depends on the dog.
Do you leave the dogs outside?
We do not leave dogs outside unless the client specifically requests us to do so. Our bulldogs aren't allowed to be outside unsupervised, so neither are yours.
Can I bring my dog's bed?
Yes.
Where will my dog sleep?
Everyone sleeps in our bedroom. It is large and can accomodate many dogs. Everyone is crated or confined in a penned in area. Dogs like to explore new spaces and doing this while we are sleeping isn't very safe! However, there are some dogs that visit us often and if we know them well they are able to sleep in their bed next to ours. We have never had a problem with a dog not sleeping.
Do I provide my dog's food?
Yes. It is better for your pet if they are kept on the same diet.
What if an emergency occurs?
Your pet will be taken either to the nearest emergency facility, your vet or a vet of Good Times' choice. This depends on where and when the emergency occurs. Of course you would be notified as soon as possible.
Can I call to check on my pet?
Of course! We know what it is like to go away and leave your pet in someone else's hands. Luckily for us we have always had our friend take care of our pups. But, I still called him several times a day... even when out of the country... and have sat on many beaches waiting for a picture of my dogs! So we understand!
Can I mix services?
Yes, this is done quite a bit. We work to tailor services to fit you and your pet.
What is the first step to start services?
Firstly, you must schedule a consultation. This way we get to meet each other and determine if we are a good fit. During this consultation we determine what services are best for your pet. Every dog is evaluated before s/he is able to come to the house.
Do you provide services for other kinds of pets?
Yes. In addition to cats and dogs we also feed fish and certain reptiles. Snakes that eat live food aren't really up our alley. Erin loves farm animals but doesn't know enough about them to properly care for them.
