Q: What days are you open & what days are you closed?
A: Calendar availability is subject to change. All updates are reflected in our booking system calendar & on the availability list on our homepage. (More: Understanding Calendar Availability)
Q: Do you offer trials or temperament visits?
A: Yes, all new clients must schedule a Daycare trial before Boarding. During this trial, we assess your pet's temperament to see how they react to our environment, other pets, & our team. Clients who haven’t booked services in (6) months or more also must complete a new trial.
Q: When should I schedule a temperament visit?
A: It is best to complete the trial well in advance of your boarding appointment. This allows time to make other arrangements if our kennel environment is not the right fit for your pet. If your pet is new to Daycare or Boarding, we recommend scheduling regular daycare visits to help them adjust.
Q: My dog does not play well with others. Can I still book an appointment?
A: Unfortunately, no. We have an open kennel environment where dogs interact freely. For the safety & comfort of all pets, dogs must get along with others. If your dog prefers one-on-one care, we suggest looking for a facility that offers private care.
Q: Does my dog need to be up-to-date on vaccinations?
A: Yes, all dogs must be current on vaccinations to prevent the spread of illnesses in our facility which include DHPP/DAPP, Rabies & Bordetella (Kennel Cough).
Q: Is there an age requirement for puppies? Can they board without vaccinations?
A: Puppies are welcome as long as they are current on their vaccinations. Puppies typically start vaccinations between 6-8 weeks, with monthly boosters for three months. We recommend speaking with your vet to confirm your puppy is cleared for boarding.
Q: Do you accept unneutered or unspayed dogs?
A: Yes, we accept unneutered & unspayed dogs. Be sure to complete your profile in the app, including details about your pet’s spay/neuter status, feeding, vaccinations, emergency contacts, etc. Emergency contacts should be someone other than your spouse who can pick up your dog in an emergency.
Q: My dog was recently neutered or spayed. Can they attend Daycare or Boarding?
A: For safety reasons, dogs must wait 10-14 days after surgery before attending Daycare or Boarding. During this time, they should be on restricted activity to prevent complications with their incision.
Q: Do you accept dogs in heat?
A: Yes, we accept dogs in heat. We just ask that you provide doggie diapers to assist with cleanup.
Q: Where will my dog stay? Will they be with other dogs?
A: Champ STRONG Kennels is a home-based business located about 10 minutes from downtown Columbia, with a capacity of (9) kennels. Each dog will have its own individual space but will share common areas both indoors & outdoors with other dogs. They will enjoy time in our large, fenced yard & indoor play area.
Q: How much space does my dog have?
A: Each dog has their own 2ft x 4ft kennel. There is also a 200 sq. ft. indoor play area & a 4,000 sq. ft. fenced outdoor yard for play & potty breaks.
Q: What is the drop-off & pick-up process?
A: Use the app to let us know when you are on the way by selecting the "I'm on my way!" feature. Upon arrival, send us a message or select "I am here!" in the app. To keep our environment calm, we currently offer curbside drop-off & pick-up only.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Please bring your dog's food, medication, & any other necessities. We provide toys, bowls, & beds. If you prefer not to bring food, we offer food service at an additional cost, using Pure Balance Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe. For safety, all dogs must arrive on a leash, per the City of Columbia’s ordinances.
Q: What do services include?
A: Our services include: A courtesy photo update, individual kennel, beds, food & water bowls, classical music for relaxation, potty breaks every 2-3 hours, indoor & outdoor playtime, toys, interactive puzzles with treats, Kong toys with treats, & other enrichment activities.
Q: What are peak rates?
A: There is an additional $5/day during holidays & peak seasons. Holiday bookings are within two days of major holidays. Peak seasons include busy periods like spring & fall breaks.
Q: What is the difference between full & half-night charges?
A: Boarding is charged by the night, with pickup by 11:00 AM. Picking up after 11:00 AM incurs a half-night charge. For example:
Drop off Monday morning, pick up Tuesday morning = 1 night.
Drop off Monday morning, pick up Tuesday evening = 1.5 nights.
We recommend a morning drop-off and pickup to maximize your dog’s stay.
Q: Do you offer referral incentives?
A: Yes! You will earn a free day of Daycare or night of Boarding for every referral who completes a booking. Referrals must list your name in the notes of their booking request.
Q: Will someone be with my dog 24 hours a day?
A: Since we are home-based, we are on-site all day, except for brief periods when we step away for errands or appointments.
Q: Will my dog be in a kennel? If so, for how long?
A: Kennels are used for sleeping, feeding, & briefly during drop-offs, pickups, or when we need to step away. Otherwise, dogs are free to roam & play indoors & outdoors throughout the day.
Q: What is a typical day like for my dog?
A: Our typical schedule includes:
7-8 AM: Breakfast & potty break
11 AM-1 PM: Lunch, naptime, & outdoor break
5-6 PM: Dinner & outdoor break
9 PM: Bedtime
Potty breaks are every 2-3 hours, with time to play indoors & outdoors throughout the day.
Q: How will I know my dog is doing okay?
A: We aim to send one photo pupdate per day, but please note this is a courtesy. If your pet is having any issues, we will contact you immediately. You are welcome to check social media for additional pupdates that may be posted to stories.
Q: What kind of food do you provide if I choose food service?
A: We recommend bringing your dog’s regular food to avoid digestive issues. If you select food service, we provide Pure Balance Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe.
Q: How do I pay for services?
A: Payment is due upon receipt of the invoice. If payment is not received (2) days before the start of your appointment, your saved card on file will be charged. Should you need to cancel after the automated payment has been processed, our Cancellation Policy will apply. We accept electronic payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, & other major card services. Per request, we can accept cash or make partial electronic payments to an invoice balance with a saved card on file. We also accept payment via CashApp, PayPal, Google Pay & Venmo.
Q: Can I make changes to my booking?
A: Yes, please contact us as soon as possible to update your booking.
Q: Can I cancel a booking?
A: Yes, cancellations made more than 48 hours in advance receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance receive a partial. No refunds are given for early pickups (see Cancellation Policy).
Q: What happens if my dog becomes injured or ill?
A: In case of illness or injury during their stay, we will seek immediate veterinary care. However, we are not responsible for any expenses related to your dog after your departure. You are responsible for any expenses related to your dog's care after pickup.
Q: Why did my dog vomit or have diarrhea after boarding?
A: Mild digestive issues within 48 hours of returning home can be caused by excitement or normal adjustment periods. If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, consult your veterinarian.
Q: Why is my dog tired after boarding?
A: Your dog may be more active at the kennel than at home, leading to extra sleep afterward. They often need rest after the stimulation of playing with other dogs.
Q: Why is my dog eating & drinking more after returning home?
A: Some pets eat & drink less in a new environment. Make sure they do not overeat or overdrink when they return home to avoid vomiting.
Q: Are you insured?
A: Yes, we are fully insured through Pet Sitters Associates, LLC.
Champ STRONG, LLC does not discriminate based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected category. If you have a question that has not been answered, feel free to contact us at champstrongllc@gmail.com.