Individual / Custom Playtimes

Operating Procedure

During these play sessions, we ask that you engage with the dogs. At Paws we pride ourselves with offering the best care for our pet parents and their four-legged family members. A high standard and quality of play is required during these activities. The following are guidelines for appropriate behavior while conducting an individual playtime. 

• If the dog is scheduled to depart early we do their playtime before the others.
• If a dog has multiple play times we try to space them out as much as possible, within reason.
• Do custom plays outside so the dog can get exercise. In the event of inclement weather (freezing, icy, thunderstorm) you may bring the dog outside to do their business then return to their suite, playgym, or lux hallway (if empty) to play with them.
• Start a timer for 15 minutes and record the time the playtime is started. 
• Focus on the dog during the play time! Try to get the dog excited and playful if possible. If the dog does not want to play with you, you can pet them, talk to them, and/or walk around with them. Our guests deserve your undivided attention for a full 15 minutes.
• Observe the dog during your time with them, completing a wellness check. If there is food in their bowls, try hand feeding them to encourage them to finish.
• If you note there are any activities the dog especially loves doing, such as chasing a ball, belly rubs, or cuddling, write a note on their room cards and let the front desk know so they can make a note of it.
• Keep track of the pet using the bathroom, and record it on their room card once you bring them in.
• When you are done with the play time return the dog to their suite. Top off their water and remove empty bowls. Make note on their room card if they went to the bathroom or finished their food.
• At the end of your shift, fill out the Playlist with your times and tell shift lead/supervisor if a dog hasn't come in, left early, etc.