Question 1

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer dog daycare (Monday-Friday only) and overnight boarding. Grooming services are available on-site through GroomsByKatieK.(https://www.thehomesteadnottawa.com/groomsbykatiek)

Question 2

What are your hours of operation?

Accepted Answer

• Monday-Friday: 8:00-9:00 am, 12:00-1:00 pm (drop-off & pick-up), 3:00-5:30 pm (pick-up only)
 • Saturday-Sunday & Holidays (boarding only): 8:30-9:30 am, 12:00-1:00 pm (drop-off & pick-up), 3:00-4:30 pm (pick-up only)
 • After-hours service available by appointment ($10/hour, max $20). No service before 6:30 am or after 7:00 pm.

Question 3

Can I schedule a tour of the facility?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All new clients must schedule a Meet & Greet with their dog before using our services. Your dog must be current on required vaccines. Visit our New Clients (https://www.thehomesteadnottawa.com/new-clients)page to get started.

Question 4

What’s included in a Meet and Greet?

Accepted Answer

Our 20-minute Meet & Greet includes a property tour, review of your dog's information, and behavioral assessment. Your dog must be current on vaccines to visit. Successful candidates can stay for discounted daycare the same day when space is available.

Question 5

Do you accept all dog breeds?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we welcome all breeds, shapes, and sizes.

Question 6

Do you ever turn dogs away?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when necessary for safety. We continuously assess all dogs and provide accommodations for those at risk (fence jumpers, high prey drive). Dogs displaying aggression are removed immediately and may require safety measures (muzzle, limited access) or be unable to return..

Question 7

How many dogs do you have at any one time?

Accepted Answer

Maximum 25 dogs for daycare (1 staff per 10 dogs or less). Maximum 12-15 dogs for overnight boarding across our facilities.

Question 8

Can unneutered males and unspayed females attend daycare or boarding?

Accepted Answer

All dogs over 12 months must be spayed/neutered. Dogs aged 9-12 months are strongly recommended to be spayed/neutered. We do not accept females in heat. Intact males displaying aggression or not accepted by the group will be refused. Exceptions require veterinary documentation and an additional daily fee.

Question 9

What vaccinations are required for my dog to attend The Homestead?

Accepted Answer

Required:
 • Core Vaccinations: 3-year DAPPV + Rabies (require 7-10 days after administration for adequate protection)
 • Bordetella (kennel cough): Annual protocol
    • Oral or intranasal forms: 3-5 days to become effective
    • Injectable form: 7-10 days to become effective

Recommended:
 • Leptospirosis: Annually

Additional Requirements:
 • Regular deworming
 • Flea and tick preventative: Monthly (when temperatures are above freezing)

Plan vaccination timing accordingly before your visit to ensure full protection.

Question 10

What's the outdoor experience like? Will my dog get dirty?

Accepted Answer

We maximize outdoor time weather permitting! Dogs enjoy off-leash freedom on our trails, pond, and open areas—including mud and water. We adjust outdoor time based on conditions (shorter hikes on cold days with warm-up breaks). We don't clean dogs before pick-up, so dress your dog appropriately for weather and trail conditions and bring a towel. You're welcome to send coats or booties (clearly labeled). We're not responsible for missing or damaged items.

Question 11

Will my little dog go out with the bigger dogs?

Accepted Answer

We group dogs by size and temperament whenever possible. All playtime is monitored by staff trained in dog behavior.

Question 12

Is it normal for my dog to be sore and tired after visiting The Homestead?

Accepted Answer

Yes. What we offer is very different than a leashed walk or 30 minutes at a dog park. Your dog may be tired and a little sore depending on their participation in our action-packed activities. We have challenging terrain that can be tough on paws initially, but they adapt with more visits. We monitor energy levels, build in rest times, and allow dogs to skip scheduled walks. Consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog's health.

Question 13

Is it safe for my dog to drink from the pond, puddles, and streams?

Accepted Answer

We can't guarantee dogs won't contract something from natural water sources. Giardia is a common parasite causing diarrhea and vomiting, spread through contaminated water or other dogs. While we can't eliminate it from the environment, we pick up feces immediately and provide fresh water. We ask all clients to monitor their dog's health and stay home if showing signs of illness.