1653 Union Street · Bangor, Maine 04401 · 207-945-6841

Daycare

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Doggie Daycare at the Green Acres Kennel Shop can provide your special dog with:

  • Exercise and socialization opportunities. Daycare is a great place to burn off that excess energy while romping with a new canine buddy in a safe, supervised environment.
  • Human contact. During the day while you are gone your companion need not be alone. Our pet care technicians are here because they love spending time with dogs; theirs and yours.
  • A safe environment with friendly caregivers. When you leave your dog at Green Acres, you can rest assured that they will be in the best of care.

Dogs that spend their day in Green Acres Doggie Daycare enjoy:

  • Their own spacious, indoor-outdoor run. Multi-dog families may have up to 2 dogs stay in the same run. Runs are left open, weather permitting, for dogs to go in and out at will.
  • Two twenty minute group playtimes. One session occurs in the morning and another in the afternoon. Each playgroup is supervised at all times by trained staff members and there are never more than 5 dogs per staff member in a group. Dogs are evaluated and assigned to a playgroup based on age, size, temperament and play style. Your dog's enjoyment and safety are our primary concern. Dogs in our Daycare program must be able to get along well with other dogs.
  • A tasty and nutritious snack. In between playtimes, treats are stuffed in a Kong® as we find that the dogs love working on their Kong to get to the food inside. Snacks may include healthy biscuits, a carrot, an apple and other tasty treats. If your dog has special dietary needs, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate them.

Green Acres has a limited number of kennels available for Daycare dogs from 7:00AM until 6:00PM, Monday through Friday. If your dog will be coming to Daycare 5 days per week, it is available throughout the year, except the week between Christmas and New Years (December 24th thru January 3rd). Weekly guests may reserve Daycare space up to 5 weeks in advance.

If you would like to learn more about our Daycare program, we encourage you to stop by for a tour. Daycare is very popular and we are often full; however, we do maintain a waiting list so we can contact you when a space becomes available.

 

 

Room Service Options for Dogs

Tikken-and-Kong

Green Acres offers a wide variety of room service options for our canine guests that are boarding or are in daycare. These services include opportunities for play and social interaction, special treats, and grooming. Each service is described below.

Social Activities

It is our mission to ensure your dog has fun while at Green Acres. For this reason we have several social options to meet the various needs of the different personalities that visit us. Please note that outdoor play takes place in a secure 6' fenced yard and in all weather conditions, except the most severe cold or rain. Please bring appropriate clothing should your pet require it. Please inform staff if you believe your pet has the capability to jump or scale a 6' fence.

Snuggle Time – Extra special time with your dog and one of our staff... just for snuggling, nuzzling, massaging and petting. This service is ideal for the shier or older dogs that really prefer to sit quietly and be petted and massaged rather than play and romp with other dogs or people. The fee for this service is $2.50 and is available once or twice a day, or a specific number of times during your dog's stay with us.

Individual Play – Outdoor play for your dog with one of our staff. This service is recommended for those dogs that enjoy cavorting outside; fetching the ball or frisbee, but prefer the company of a person rather than other dogs. At $2.50 per playtime, this service is available once or twice a day, or a specific number of times during your dog's stay with us.

Family Play – Outdoor play for your dog and up to four other dogs from the same family, providing everyone gets along. This is an ideal way for your dogs to have a fun, outdoor romp under supervision. The fee for this service is $2.50 per dog. Family Play may be scheduled once a day, twice a day, or a specific number of times during your dogs' stay with us.

Group Play (included with Daycare) – This option is for dogs that love interacting with other dogs. It includes outdoor play for your dog and up to four other non-related dogs, under the supervision of our trained staff. All dogs will be placed in groups based on size, temperament, activity level, and play style. The fee for this service is $2.50 per play session. Group Play may be scheduled once a day, twice a day, or a specific number of times during your dog's stay with us.

Treats

Who doesn't appreciate a special snack now and then? Indulge your canine companion by choosing from the following special menu items:

Cool Treats– An all natural, no sugar added frozen fruit blend just for dogs. Hailed as a smoothie for dogs, Cool Treats are a perfect option for those pets that struggle with weight as they are low in both fat and calories. Offered for $0.95 per serving, Cool Treats are available once a day, every other day, or a specific number of times during your dog's visit.

Greenies for Dogs – A tasty, digestible treat for your dog to chew on as it kicks back and relaxes. Not only do Greenies have essential nutrients to promote good overall health, but they have the added benefit of aiding in the cleaning of teeth. For $1.25 Greenies are available once a day, every other day, or a specific number of times during your dog's visit. We suggest no more than one Greenie per day. Sorry, regular size only.

Pig's Ear – An all natural and extra tasty smoked treat, great for encouraging appropriate chewing behavior. At $1.50, pigs’ ears are available once a day, every other day, or a specific number of times during your dog's visit. We suggest no more than one Pig's Ear per day.

Sea Jerky – With its 1200 mg of sea cucumber (trademarked as Sea Chondroitin®), and 280 mg of glucosamine HCL, Sea Jerky is an all natural, Maine made, jerky treat for dogs that helps with joint mobility. One strip daily is recommended for every 50 to 60 pounds of weight. At $0.65/strip tell us how many strips your pet requires. Sorry, sold by the full strip only.

Stuffed Kong (included w/Daycare) – Help sharpen your dog's intellect by providing them with a variety of tasty morsels stuffed in a puzzle that stimulates the mind while providing an afternoon snack. The price for a Kong is $2.00 and they are available once a day, every other day, or a specific number of times during your dog's visit.

Grooming

Your dog's already at their holiday spa, so why not consider getting them the full spa treatment so they go home looking their absolute best. We offer the following grooming options, all performed by one of our professional Groomers.

Nail Trim – $6.00, available once per stay or once per week.

Brushing – The price for this service depends on the breed, condition of the coat, and your dog's behavior. We recommend this service for all long haired dogs staying with us more than 3 days to prevent matting.

Full Groom – This service includes any brushing, bathing, clipping or trimming that you specify and a nail trim. The price for this service depends on the breed, condition of the coat, and your dog's behavior. If you select this service we recommend you have it performed on the last day of your pet's visit.

 

Requirements

Behavior and Temperament

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Because group playtime is an integral component of daycare, all dogs enrolled in our daycare program must get along well with all types of other dogs. Daycare is not an appropriate arena to attempt to overcome issues of fear or aggression with other dogs.

Health

Dogs in our daycare program are in close contact with each other and thus must be healthy. If your dog is sick, please do not bring him to daycare during the duration of his illness.

Spay & Neuter Requirements

All dogs and bitches over 7 months of age are required to be spayed or neutered to participate in the group play sessions included with daycare.

Vaccinations

To ensure the health of all dogs in daycare, we will need to see proof of vaccination for rabies and either proof of vaccination or immunity for distemper and canine cough. Proof of immunity requires a letter from your veterinarian stating that titer tests are performed on a routine basis and that your dog has sufficient immunity. A day before your reservation, we will contact your veterinarian to request this information.

Fleas

All pets entering Green Acres are checked for fleas and must be flea free before they may enter daycare. All pets are checked for fleas daily in an effort to ensure that no guest goes home with fleas. If your pet is found to have fleas at the time of check in, they will need to have a flea bath and Capstar® prior to being admitted to the kennel, for which there will be an extra charge. We strongly encourage a discussion about the use of preventative flea products such as FrontLine® and Advantix® with your veterinarian.

Emergency Veterinary Care

If your pet should require veterinary care while staying with us, we will work with your veterinarian to provide the required care. Whenever possible, we will contact you or the person you designate at the emergency number you leave us, if such care should be required. Veterinary care is provided under the terms of Green Acres’ General Contract .
 

Daycare Rates


Rates Effective March 1, 2013

 

DAYCARE RATES (includes two supervised playtimes per day, stuffed Kong and accomodation in an indoor/outdoor run between playtimes)
Dogs per RunRate
1 dog $22.50
2 dogs $42.00

 

 

Green Acres General Contract for Boarding/Daycare/Grooming

All daycare clients must sign a boarding/daycare contract for each pet boarded, on an annual basis.

(This copy of our contract is made available online for your review only. An actual copy will be need to be signed at our facility)

This is a contract for boarding, grooming and daycare services between GREEN ACRES KENNEL SHOP (GAKS) and the pet owner whose signature appears below (hereinafter called “Owner”).

  1. OWNER agrees to pay the rate in effect the date the pet is checked into GAKS, and further agrees to pay for all costs and charges for any special services requested or required, and all veterinary costs for the pet during the time pet is in care of GAKS. OWNER agrees that the pet shall not leave GAKS until all charges for boarding, daycare, grooming, medicine, veterinary services, playtime, etc. are paid to GAKS by OWNER. Any grooming or daycare pets not called for on the stated pick up date will be boarded at our normal rate. If the pet is not called for within 10 days of the stated pickup date, the pet will be sold for bills due or placed with a humane society or rescue group. OWNER shall be liable for any unpaid charges.
  2. OWNER is aware that if pet is found to have fleas or evidence of fleas, that GAKS will administer Capstar® (nitenpyram) or flea shampoo, at their discretion, before accepting the pet. Charges for any flea treatments will be added to the OWNER’S bill. Due to the nature of the pesticides used, there may be side effects which GAKS cannot be held responsible for. OWNER is aware that any such treatments are not guaranteed 100% effective.
  3. Owner is aware that grooming pets, if matted may require shaving or dematting, and that these procedures may have unpleasant consequences such as clipper burn, brush burn, or nicks and cuts resulting in temporary discomfort, including but not limited to, itching scratching and scooting. OWNER is aware that alopecia, the abnormal regrowth of hair, may occur in some instances. GAKS will use all precautions during these procedures but will not be held responsible for the aforementioned side effects.
  4. When requested, GAKS will board more than one pet of the same species, from the same household, in a single run, as long as both pets can move freely and be fed appropriately without supervision; however, GAKS reserves the right to place the pets in separate runs if they deem necessary. The single run rate will then apply for each pet.
  5. If pet is to be boarded any time over peak and holiday periods, as posted at GAKS, OWNER agrees to pay for ALL DAYS RESERVED, unless said dates are cancelled at least 72 hours prior to the day of the reservation.
  6. OWNER is aware of the hours GAKS is open to the public and understands that when boarding, the daily boarding charge applies the day you drop your pet off and each subsequent day the pet is here after 12 noon.
  7. GAKS will exercise due and reasonable care for pet and will keep its facility clean and properly enclosed.
  8. If pet becomes ill or if the state of the pet’s health is such that GAKS believes the pet requires veterinary attention, GAKS, in its sole discretion, may engage the services of a veterinarian or administer medicine, or a special diet, or give other requisite attention to the pet and the expenses thereof shall be paid by the OWNER.
  9. All pets are cared for by GAKS without liability on our part for loss or damage, from disease, death, running away, theft, fire, injury to persons, or other animals or property by said pet, fence climbing, or other unavoidable causes, providing due diligence and normal care and caution having been exercised.
  10. It is expressly agreed by OWNER and GAKS that GAKS liability shall in no event exceed the lesser of the current chattel value of a pet of the same species or the sum of $200.00 per pet. The OWNER further agrees to be solely responsible for any and all acts or behavior of said pet while it is in the care of GAKS.
  11. By signing this Contract and leaving your pet with GAKS, OWNER certifies to the accuracy of all information provided about pet, that pet is current on all vaccines required by GAKS, that pet has not been exposed to rabies or distemper within a 30 day period prior to receiving services at GAKS, and that OWNER is the legal owner of said pet, free and clear of all liens and encumbrances and assumes financial liability for all payments called for in this agreement.
  12. This Contract, and the Group Play, Individual/Family Play or Shave Down addendum, if signed, contains the entire agreement between the parties for the Boarding/Daycare/Grooming of said pets. All terms and conditions of this Contract shall be binding on the heirs, administrators, personal representatives and assigns of the OWNER and GAKS.
  13. Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this contract, or the breach thereof, or as the result of any claim or controversy involving the alleged negligence by any party to this contract, shall be settled by arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association, and judgment upon the award rendered by an arbitrator may be entered in any Court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrator shall, as part of his award, determine an award to the prevailing party of the costs of such arbitration and reasonable attorney’s fees of the prevailing party.
  14. This Contract applies to this visit at GAKS as well as all subsequent visits.

I have read this agreement on this date, ___/___/___, understand its terms and signed it freely.

 

Boarding/Daycare Playtime Contracts

(This copy of our contract is made available online for your review only. An actual copy will be need to be signed at our facility)

Green Acres Kennel Shop Group Play Contract

This document is an addendum to the General Contract between GREEN ACRES KENNEL SHOP (hereinafter called “GAKS”) and the pet owner whose signature appears below (hereinafter called “Owner”).  We are pleased to offer group play opportunities for dogs that Board or Daycare at GAKS. Group play is defined as interaction off lead in a secure area between 2 or more dogs that do not reside together in the same household. Dogs in group play will be under supervision by one of our pet care technicians. In order for your dog to participate in group play, we ask that you carefully read and agree to the following by signing below.

  1. Group play is for healthy dogs.  Group play is not recommended for dogs that have medical conditions such as diabetes, seizures, hip dysplasia, heart murmurs or any other medical condition that maybe aggravated by excitement or boisterous play. GAKS assumes no responsibility for the aggravation of any medical disorders caused by participation in group play.
  2. Group play is for well socialized, happy dogs. Group play is not recommended for overcoming fear related or aggressive behaviors in under-socialized dogs and may in fact exacerbate these conditions. GAKS assumes no responsibility for the aggravation of any behavioral disorders caused by participation in group play.
  3. Owner agrees to disclose to GAKS any and all changes in the dog’s physical and mental health which may affect dog’s suitability for group play.
  4. To decrease the incidences of aggression, all dogs over 7 months of age must be spayed or neutered to participate in group play. Owner confirms that their pet, if older than 7 months, has been spayed or neutered.
  5. GAKS staff reserves all rights to determine if a dog is unsuitable for group play based upon health and/or behavior and to terminate group play activities immediately when deemed necessary. If a dog has been determined ineligible for group play, individual playtime may be offered when possible.
  6. Owner fully accepts all risks of illness or injury that may be incurred during normal play activity.  Such risks include, but are not limited to: cuts, scrapes, (and other injuries resulting from boisterous play; and possible contagious illnesses such as upper respiratory infections).
  7. Owner understands that he/she is solely responsible for any harm caused by owner’s dog, while participating in group play at GAKS.
  8. Owner shall indemnify GAKS against any claims made against the company, or any losses or damage of any kind suffered by GAKS as a result of his/her failure to inform GAKS of any pre-existing condition his/her dog may have (including, but not limited to an illness or known behavior problem).
  9. Owner agrees to take precautions against the spread of contagious illnesses and parasite exposure by regularly consulting with a Veterinarian. GAKS reserves all rights to refuse participation in group play until a letter from a veterinarian certifies the health status of a particular animal.

10.  Owner understands that in the event of injury, GAKS staff may or may not notify him/her immediately, at their discretion.  If the injury is not serious, GAKS staff may allow the dog to continue to play, and then notify owner when he/she comes to pick up the dog.  If the injury is serious, and requires that a dog be removed from group activities, the owner will be notified immediately.

 

Green Acres Kennel Shop Individual/Family Play Contract

This document is an addendum to the General Contract between GREEN ACRES KENNEL SHOP (hereinafter called “GAKS”) and the pet owner whose signature appears below (hereinafter called “Owner”). We are pleased to offer individual/family play opportunities for dogs that Board or Daycare at GAKS. Individual/family play is defined as interaction with a GAKS Pet Care Technician and a single dog, off lead in a secure area or as interaction between up to five dogs that live within the same household, off lead in a secure area, under the supervision of a GAKS Pet Care Technician. In order for your dog to participate in individual/family play, we ask that you carefully read and agree to the following by signing below.

1.  Individual/family play is for healthy, non-symptomatic dogs that routinely play with people or other dogs in their household.  GAKS assumes no responsibility for the aggravation of any medical disorders caused by participation in individual/family play.

2.  Owner agrees to disclose to GAKS any and all changes in the dog’s physical and mental health which may affect dog’s suitability for individual/family play.

3.  GAKS staff reserves all rights to determine if a dog is unsuitable for individual/family play based upon health and/or behavior and to terminate play activities immediately when deemed necessary.

4.  Owner fully accepts all reasonable risks of illness or injury that may be incurred during normal play activity.  Such risks include, but are not limited to: cuts, scrapes, (and other injuries resulting from boisterous play; and possible contagious illnesses such as upper respiratory infections).

5.  Owner understands that he/she is solely responsible for any harm caused by owner’s dog, while participating in play at GAKS, provided reasonable care and precautions are followed by GAKS staff.

6.  Owner shall indemnify GAKS against any claims made against the company, or any losses or damage of any kind suffered by GAKS as a result of his/her failure to inform GAKS of any pre-existing condition his/her dog may have (including, but not limited to an illness or known behavior problem).

7.  Owner agrees to take precautions against the spread of contagious illnesses and parasite exposure by regularly consulting with a Veterinarian. GAKS reserves all rights to refuse participation in individual/family play until a letter from a veterinarian certifies the health status of a particular animal.

8.  Owner understands that in the event of injury, GAKS staff may or may not notify him/her immediately, at their discretion.  If the injury is not serious, GAKS staff may allow the dog to continue to play, and then notify owner when he/she comes to pick up the dog.  If the injury is serious, and requires that a dog be removed from group activities, the owner will be notified immediately.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What do we need to bring with us when we bring our dog for Daycare?

There are several things you should bring with your dog for Daycare.

  • If it is your pet's first visit, we will need to see proof of vaccination for Rabies, and either proof of vaccination or immunity for Distemper and Bordetella for dogs. Proof of immunity requires a letter from your veterinarian stating that titer tests are performed annually and that your pet has sufficient immunity.
  • An emergency phone number where we can contact you or someone who can act on your behalf if we have any questions or your pet requires veterinary care during the day.
  • Any medications, prescription or otherwise (e.g. aspirin), that your dog requires. All medications should be in containers clearly marked with your dog's name, the name of the medication, the correct dosage for your dog, and if a prescription, the name of the veterinarian.
  • If you wish your dog to be fed during Daycare, you may bring your own food. Any food you bring should be clearly labeled with your pet's name and the amount they are to receive at each feeding.
  • If your pet will be picked up by someone other than yourself, please leave us with the name and phone number of the person(s) authorized to pick up your pet.

Can I bring my dog’s toys?

Yes, you may bring a favorite toy, however when possible it should be clearly labeled with your dog's name. We do ask that you limit toys to one per day, and suggest that you may want to rotate this toy daily to help maintain your pet's interest. If you do not wish to bring a toy, we will provide your dog with toys that we have in the kennel.

How do I know my dog will not get fleas during daycare?

While we cannot guarantee with 100% certainty that an animal will not get fleas while at daycare, here at Green Acres we make every effort to be proactive and prevent this from happening. Each pet that arrives for the day at Green Acres is examined for fleas when they check-in. Any pet found to have fleas or flea dirt must have a flea bath and Capstar® before being admitted to the kennel. There is an additional charge for a flea bath and Capstar®.

In 1997 we observed that many of our clients started to use some of the new flea control products available from their veterinarian (FrontLine® and Advantix®). These products work very well and we encourage you to discuss them at your next veterinary visit.


How often will my pet get exercise?

Daycare includes two 20 minute group playtimes per day. During the warmer months the dogs are allowed free access to their indoor and outdoor runs all day. When we are heating the kennel, the dogs are allowed to use their outside runs several times during the day. The duration of this time is dependent upon the weather.

Why aren't the dogs allowed to play together all day?

While some people like to think it is normal and enjoyable for dogs to be frolicking together all day long, it is not. If you have multiple dogs at home just watch them. They will have brief bursts of play, but will spend most of the day lying around relaxing. Group play is a very arousing and intense experience. We find that two, 20 minute sessions give the dogs adequate opportunities for socialization without over-stressing them. They have a spacious kennel to rest and play in during the times that they are not out for group play.

What do my pets get to do during playtime?

We try to customize our playtimes to the activities that your pet enjoys, whether it be strolling around, playing fetch, playing with other dogs or splashing in a kiddie pool. Dog playtimes are usually conducted outside, however during extremely inclement weather are held in our indoor training room and are modified accordingly.

How do I know my dog will not be hurt during playtime?

The staff at Green Acres makes every attempt to ensure the safety and well-being of all dogs during play sessions. Groups are supervised 100% of the time and there are never more than 5 dogs per attendant. Dogs are carefully matched with appropriate playmates and are strictly monitored while interacting. All interactions are documented. If play appears to escalate, staff will intervene for a brief time out session. Any dog deemed by staff to be not appropriate for group play will not be permitted to interact with other dogs.

How do you charge for daycare?

You are charged for each day your dog comes for daycare. Playtime sessions are already included in the daycare fee.

How early should we make reservations and what is your policy on cancellations?

Green Acres has a limited number of kennels available for Daycare dogs from 7:00AM until 6:00PM, Monday through Friday. If your dog will be coming to Daycare 5 days per week, it is available throughout the year, except the week between Christmas and New Year’s (December 24th thru January 3rd). Weekly guests may reserve Daycare space up to 5 weeks in advance. Daycare reservations must be cancelled at least 24 hours in advance, or you will be charged for that day.

 

What Can I Bring With My Pet for Boarding/Daycare

Thank you for your interest in Green Acres Kennel Shop, your pet’s home away from home. Whether you have already made your daycare reservation or are considering us for the future we would like to thank you for taking the time to review the belonging’s policy for animals staying with us.

Please know that with the exception of medications or any special diets, it is not necessary for you to bring items from home unless you choose to do so. We will provide your pet with bedding,  treats and toys (should they desire) while they are with us. If however you wish to bring some personal items, with the exception of bedding, the following are some guidelines that we respectfully request you adhere to. (For cleaning purposes, we ask that you please do not bring any bedding. We will provide all pets with bedding for the duration of their stay with us.)

For dogs coming for Daycare:

  • Bedding – Green Acres will provide all of the necessary bedding for your pet. We have a variety of different styles of beds to accommodate the different needs of our guests.
  • Toys & Chewies - Please do not bring any toys as we will provide these for your dog during the day. Your pet will be provided with a stuffed Kong during the day to snack and gnaw on.
  • Medication - Should your dog require medication during the day, it must be in a container labeled with your pet’s name, your name, the type of medication, the dosage and the prescribing veterinarian.
  • Food & Treats- Food is not included with Daycare so if your dog needs a noontime meal, please limit the amount you bring to what is required for that day. Food should be in a container labeled with your pet’s name, your last name, and the type of food. We will provide kennel treats for your dog during the day. Should your dog have allergies and you wish to, you may bring your own treats from home.
  • Clothing - In inclement weather, please feel free to bring sweaters and booties for play outdoors.

As always, feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding your pet’s boarding. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you and your pet soon.