Hello, my name is Shawna, I am a licensed pet sitter, and the founder of Tampaws Pet Care. I am a pet owner and animal lover myself. I have owned a variety of pets in my lifetime, including cats, dogs, guini pigs, iguanas, turtles, birds,snakes, fish, and even a sugar gliders. Not only am I a pet owner, i am also very involved with local rescues in the Tampa Bay area and have been a volunteer/foster mom for Pug Rescue Of Florida for the past three years. This experience has allowed me to foster and care for a variety of pugs and given my first hand knowledge with dogs of all ages and conditions. I have experience with administering basic med ... View Profile
Can a dog fly alone?
12 p.m. – 2 p.m.: Well-deserved naptime. Each dog is provided some much-needed “me” time in a home-style crate so they don’t get over-stimulated in exciting environments like a playroom. During this time, we also provide lunches and/or administer medications when applicable. We also use this time to proactively clean each playroom before an afternoon of play! Our highly trained Canine Coaches will closely monitor your pup and may give them extra breaks throughout the day, if required.
As Dogtopians, we’re a unique breed. Our team of dog care professionals provide quality care in a safe and supervised environment. Team members must complete rigorous training on dog body language and behavior. Our playroom attendants aren’t just watchdogs; they’re called Canine Coaches for a reason! Dogtopia Canine Coaches go through an extensive four-part training process. The custom curriculum, designed by a registered canine behaviorist, has been independently recognized by both the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).
Can I leave my dog for a month?
Exercise: Consistent physical exercise is important to the growth and happiness of your pup – of course, there’s a whole lot of health benefits, too! Dog obesity is a serious health concern, as it increases the risk for osteoarthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, cancers, ligament injuries and decreased life expectancy (up to 2.5 years). Plenty of playtime enhances dog health and longevity, leaving furry children happy and relaxed. With 8-10 hours of off-leash open play, Dogtopia offers pups plenty of exercise to help ensure a healthy weight, a strong heart and a good night’s sleep!
Kennels typically come with a per-night cost, though some offer lowered rates for longer term stays, for example a week or month. Included in the basic price will be a space for your animal — for dogs, this is usually a small gated area which includes a place to sleep and eat. Some will also include a "doggy door" and outside area for them to nap or play. Cats are usually given small rooms with multiple levels and windows onto the main floor of the kennel. There is wide variation over what's included and at what price — it's critical to visit a kennel, and get a full tour, before you make any decisions.
Your dog can make a splash in our specifically designed dog pool! We have an easy access beach front entry into our 3 1/2 foot deep center, or they can dive in from the deck, or just frolic in the fountains. Our 1/2 acre leash free backyard also provides great entertainment with chasing tennis balls, running with the other guests, catching a Frisbee or just catching rays on our sundeck.
Dogtopia is a very active environment, with the dogs interacting for several hours per day. Even if your dog did not run all day, simply being awake can make them very, very tired. At home, most dogs sleep the day away getting 18 or more hours of sleep. Although we have a two-hour nap, and the dogs sleep approximately eight hours per night, they will be tired. Please let them rest. We do not recommend that you take them to the dog park or any other social environment for at least a few days.
Which airline is the most pet friendly?
Select locations. Pet age, health & vaccination requirements apply. Subject to availability. New customers only. Free night discount applied at the register when checking out. Excludes packages & all add-ons. Minimum overnight stay period is two (2) consecutive nights. Maximum one free night per customer. Prices may vary. Breed restrictions may apply.
A good kennel or boarding facility should walk your dog several times a day — anywhere from two to five — and should also build in time for play or socialization. Some kennels offer free play with other animals in a common yard, while some keep dog play one-on-one with staff, for example playing fetch or in the pool, to avoid any conflicts. Rural properties may include hiking trails.
Kennels also come with a variety of add-on services, just like a hotel. Basic kennels include comfortable places to sleep, eat and play, while more expensive versions can include televisions in every room, plush beds, and more personal attention for your animal. Which type you prefer depends on the needs of your animal and their day-to-day lifestyle.
Can a dog fly alone?
Education: At Dogtopia, dogs don’t just play; they learn. We coach all dogs on every visit to ensure they live up to their full potential. They learn how to behave in social situations and be more comfortable around new dogs and new people. Our certified Canine Coaches provide quality care through 8-10 hours of open play with brain games to improve behavior and manners, and keep dogs engaged. Every Canine Coach is educated on canine body language, managing dogs in open play, special considerations of dogs in the playroom, preventing scuffles and much, much more!
Fun: At Dogtopia, our mantra is to provide your pup with the Most Exciting Day Ever! In addition to playroom activities, your dog will enjoy a variety of themed parties and doggie photo ops throughout the year! Dogs are a really big deal around here, so your pup can expect to play, run, learn and rest – and most importantly, they will meet their BFFF (Best Furry Friend Forever)!