Are We The Right Fit For You?

At Winkler Collar Club, we provide a structured and engaging environment where your dog can safely interact with others while enjoying enriching activities designed to support their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

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A Modern Approach to Dog Daycare: Enrichment-Based Care

Over the years, the dog daycare and boarding industry has evolved, incorporating research-backed methods to ensure the best possible care for pets. This has led to the development of Daycare 2.0, also known as enrichment daycare.

Unlike traditional daycare models, enrichment daycare includes a balance of:

• Structured play sessions with small groups

• Rest periods and rotations

• Mentally stimulating activities such as snuffle mats, puzzle games, and interactive training sessions

Research shows that 20 minutes of mental stimulation can be just as beneficial as 60 minutes of physical exercise. Enrichment-based care helps prevent boredom, reduces unwanted behaviours, and builds confidence through problem-solving activities. The goal is for your dog to engage their brain while they play, ensuring they return home happy-tired, not exhausted.

 

What We Offer:

• One-on-one attention & training from experienced staff

• Safe, structured off-leash playtime with like-minded pups

• Individualized care plans based on your dog’s personality and needs

• A balance of enriching activities, socialization, and relaxation

• Mental & physical stimulation to support a well-rounded, happy dog

 

Important Information & Policies

Not All Dogs Thrive in Daycare—And That’s Okay!

Daycare can be fast-paced, which may cause some dogs to feel overwhelmed or stressed. Even the most social dogs outside of daycare may struggle in this environment. For this reason, all dogs must undergo an evaluation before being accepted for daycare or boarding.

 

Health & Safety Requirements

• All dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations:

  • Parvovirus/Distemper

  • Rabies

  • Bordetella

  • or provide a positive titer test result

• Intact males & females are allowed, but females in heat are not permitted. Please wait three weeks after their cycle ends before returning.

• Pregnant dogs are not allowed due to the stressful nature of a daycare setting.

• Dogs must be free of parasites and any contagious illnesses for at least 48 hours prior to their stay.

• If your dog has medical conditions, allergies, or requires medication, please inform our staff.

 

Behavioural Expectations & Zero Aggression Policy

We are not a training facility, but we do work closely with owners to address mild behavioural concerns. However, we do not accept aggressive dogs and reserve the right to permanently or temporarily remove any dog displaying unprovoked aggression.

If your dog exhibits reactivity, fearfulness, or severe anxiety, daycare may not be the right fit. Socialization in a high-energy setting can worsen anxiety rather than improve it.

Additionally, we do not allow resource guarding of food or toys in our facility. To prevent conflicts:

• No personal toys are allowed in daycare.

• Each dog eats in a private kennel to ensure a stress-free mealtime.

 

What to Bring for Daycare & Boarding

 

For Daycare:

✅ Standard Leash or Slip Lead (No retractable/flexi leashes)
✅ Food (if applicable) – We provide various dish options, including slow feeders. Refrigeration is available for raw diets.
✅ Updated Vaccination Records – Bring a copy or have your vet email it to us.
✅ Medication (if needed) – Please provide clear instructions.

🚫 Do NOT bring: Beds, blankets, or toys.

 

For Boarding:

✅ Standard Leash or Slip Lead (No retractable/flexi leashes)
✅ Food – We have refrigeration for raw/wet food and a scale for accurate portioning.
✅ Updated Vaccination Records
✅ Medication (if needed) – Clear instructions required.
✅ Personal bedding/blanket (optional) – We provide beds, blankets, and cots, but you are welcome to bring something familiar for added comfort.

 

Daily Schedule

We follow a structured routine to maintain a calm, balanced environment:

 

Morning Routine

🕔 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM: Boarding dogs go out for a potty break
🕠 5:30 AM: Breakfast for boarding dogs
🕕 6:00 AM: Doors open for daycare
🕖 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM: Potty break for boarding dogs before daycare begins

 

Daycare & Enrichment Activities

⏰ 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Rotating play & enrichment sessions
⏳ 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Midday rest period (all dogs are kennelled for lunch & facility cleaning)

 

Evening Routine

🕠 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Dinner & rest period
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Evening activities & final potty breaks
🕙 10:00 PM: Facility closes (Late pick-ups incur a $1/minute fee. After 10:00 PM, dogs will be boarded overnight at the owner’s expense.)

 

Cancellation Policy

• Boarding Cancellations: Must provide at least 36 hours' notice (or 72 hours during peak times). Late cancellations or no-shows will be charged for the full reservation.

• Daycare Cancellations: Must provide 24 hours' notice during peak times. Late cancellations or no-shows will result in a full charge or one day deducted from a prepaid package.

At Winkler Collar Club, we are committed to providing a safe, enriching, and structured environment where your dog can learn, play, and thrive. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We look forward to welcoming your pup to our facility!