Frequently Asked Questions
How often will I get updates on my pet?
We complete daily activity logs for your pet’s stay!
You are welcome to call anytime to check in - if there are any health concerns our staff will reach out to you.
Can I bring my dog’s toys, blankets, and/or beds?
Rusty Ridge Animal Center provides beds, blankets, water and food bowls for our lodgers. Please refrain from bringing belongings from home as they will not be accepted.
Rusty Ridge Animal Center will not be held responsible for lost or damaged items.
Do I need to make a reservation for boarding and if so, how early should I make one?
Yes, all lodging stays will require a reservation. We recommend that major holiday reservations be made at least two to three months in advance as we book out well in advance.
Do I need to be an active client of Rusty Ridge for my pet to lodge?
Yes, beginning in January 2025, all our lodging guests are required to be active clients of Rusty Ridge Animal Center. By focusing on our loyal clients, this change helps us stay closely connected with each pet’s individual needs and ensures we can provide the absolute best care in a familiar, loving environment!
Can someone other than me pick up or drop off my dog?
Yes, please provide the full name of the individual(s) who will be picking up your dog. Authorized personnel will be required to show I.D.
When do I need to check my pet in?
You can check in any time during our open business hours.
Monday – Friday: 7:30 am - 5:30pm
Saturday: 8am - 11:30 AM
If this is your pet's first time staying with us, we recommend allotting at least 20-30 minutes for the check-in process and allowing enough time to complete paperwork.
When do I need to check my pet out?
You can check out any time during our open business hours.
Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM - 6 PM
Saturday: 8 AM – 12 PM
Check out time is before 12 PM CST. If picking up after 12 PM, you will be charged for the day.
No Drop-Offs or Pickups on Sundays or Major Holidays for the safety and security of our lodging staff caring for our guests during their stay.
What if my pet is not up to date on vaccinations required?
If your pet is not current on the required vaccinations, our staff Veterinarians can complete an physical examination and administer the required vaccinations for your pet's lodging stay. For the health and safety of all of our guests, please see the required vaccinations for lodging, daycare, and grooming guests below.
What temperature are your suites set at?
The suites are heated and air conditioned and are maintained at a comfortable 70 degrees year-round. During the colder winter months, our in-floor radiant heating is also utilized to maintain a cozy environment for our lodgers.
How many times a day will my pet be walked?
You pet will be walked 5-8 times a day to ensure they get plenty of exercise and stimulation.
Can my pet participate in Doggy Daycare?
Yes, your dog can participate in daycare! We carefully match each pet with a group that suits their personality and energy level. As long as they are current and up to date on required vaccination series, they can enjoy daycare every day!
Food
Please pre-bag your dog’s food by meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner) in zip-lock bags for the length of stay. Label the bag with your dog’s name. You may also provide treats or snacks. This ensures the right portions are being given to your dog each day and ultimately benefits the health of your dog.
Alternatively, owners may purchase hospital Gastrointestinal food for $5.50/day
Medication
Please provide your pet's medication in their prescription vials. Proper prescription labeling and instructions are required for administration.
Also, review any changes or new medication with our front desk team. You must provide us with any additional supplies needed to medicate your pets.
There is a medication administration charge per day as a Certified Veterinary Technician or Doctor will be administering the medication.
Please provide a written note with detailed instructions for medication.
For the health of all our guests, Rusty Ridge Animal Center requires current veterinarian vaccine records, as well as a current veterinary prescribed flea and tick prevention treatment (flea-collars or 'natural' supplement prevention will not be accepted)
For the health and safety of all of our guests, the following vaccinations must be current for all lodging, daycare, and grooming guests:
Dogs: Rabies, Distemper, Bivalent Influenza, Bordetella and a Negative Intestinal Parasite Evaluation
Cats: Rabies, Distemper and a Negative Intestinal Parasite Evaluation