Frequently Asked Questions
These are some FAQs that we have had. If you cannot find the answers here or need more clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us!
Stress Reduction
At Duke City Dog Spa & Lodge, we employ extensive stress reduction grooming and pet care techniques in a safe and clean environment to ensure your pets safety and health.
Vaccinations
Proof of current age-appropriate vaccinations are required for all grooming, boarding, and daycare appointments.
Food
It is requested and strongly encouraged that food is provided by the dog owner. Dogs have less stress and fewer digestive issues if they remain on their current diet regimen. Additional charge may be incurred if the guardian is unable to provide food.
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Food does not have to be premeasured as long as the food is provided in a food safe container and the proper measurements for the food are disclosed.
What is enrichment play?
Enrichment is specialized daycare and boarding option designed for dogs who thrive in a calmer, more personalized environment.
Instead of group play, your dog enjoys a rotating schedule of mental stimulation activities, including puzzle toys, interactive games, and engaging challenges, play time with staff, adventure walks, one-on-one attention, and rest—perfectly balanced to fit their unique preferences and needs.
Check in/ Check out
The lobby is open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Lodging check in is 12:00-4:30 and check out is 8:30-12:00. Accommodations may be made outside of these hours on a case-by-case basis.
Grooming drop off / pick up
As we work one-on-one with each animal, punctuality is required to allow appropriate care for each guest. If you are more than 15 minutes late you risk losing your appointment without notice due to groomer time constraints. Pick-ups post grooming should be within 30-45 minutes of notification from the shop, Daycare arrangements may be made for early drop off or late pick up appointments.
Do we accept all dogs?
We accept all dogs with the exception of aggressive animals. We do not have breed or size restrictions. There may be a handling fee added for difficult to handle animals which will be discussed by our pet care professionals. ​​
Difficult Handling
You MUST inform Duke City Dog Spa and Lodge if your pet bites, has bitten or is aggressive to people, other pets or for specific grooming procedures. While our staff has extensive experience in handling anxious, stressed, and aggressive animals, safety of the pet and the staff is of the upmost importance. Muzzles may be used if necessary. Muzzling will not harm your pet and protects both the pet and the staff. Duke City Dog Spa and Lodge reserves the right to refuse/stop services for such pet(s) at any time before, during or after the grooming process should your pet exhibit aggressive behavior. An aggressive handling fee of $30 or more may be applied for the handling of aggressive pets that may cause injury to a staff member. Your pet may be referred to training for behavioral concerns or refused future services for staff safety.
No Show/Late Arrivals
We require notification of any cancellation 48 hours prior to your appointment. No-shows and last-minute cancellations may result in non-refundable prepayment or card on file being required for any future visits.
We understand that emergency situations arise and will work with you on a case by-case (but not on a patterned) basis. Please be respectful of our groomer’s time as we are a by appointment business and another client could have taken your appointment had we known. If you 15 minutes late or later, you risk losing your appointment without notice due to groomer time constraints as we work one on one with pets. A $25 cancellation/no-show fee may be applied at the discretion of Duke City Dog Spa and Lodge. Frequent no-show appointments/cancellations last minute may result in the discontinuation of future services.
Can I do a tour?
Yes
Can my pets stay in the same room?
Yes, family pets may sleep in the same room, if they are both comfortable doing so.
Do dogs go for walks?
Dogs are eligible for adventure walks with pet parent permission and if their behavior allows.
What are your holiday hours?
While the lobby is closed on major holidays for grooming, boarding staff is present 7 days per week, 365 days per year.
Can I bring my pet’s bedding and toys?
We provide each guest with an elevated Kuranda dog bed, orthopedic mat, and blankets or stuffed bedding as needed.
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Guests are welcome to bring toys and bones for playtime and enrichment!
Do I need to make a reservation or appointment?
Yes, reservations and appointments are required. We are a boutique facility and may only accommodate a limited number of guests to ensure excellent, individualized care. Daycare typically requires 24 hour notice if the program is not full. Grooming and boarding appointments should be scheduled in advance. We will have waitlists if your preferred time is not available.
What if my pet has medical concerns or post surgical restrictions?
We accept animals with physical limitations. Please let us know how we accommodate your pet's care. Ally and Tanya both worked as vet techs in previous careers and can make your pet comfortable under the guidance and recommendations of your veterinarian.
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We can administer oral or topical medications as well as most injections. Prescription medications must be provided in their prescription containers, along with clear written directions.
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We are happy to coordinate care with your veterinarian for more extensive care instructions. Mobility concerns, post operative care, sutures, bandages, splints, casts, Elizabethan collar requirements, transportation to the veterinarian for follow up care during their stay, and other services may be discussed with our pet care team.
Do you allow intact animals?
Yes. Intact animals are welcome for grooming, boarding, and daycare. Please contact us if you have questions.