About Us
At Bluewater Boarding we believe there are two keys to a happy and fulfilling boarding experience: adequate exercise and personal attention. We go for quality over quantity–which is why we choose to house less dogs in favor of smaller group sizes, where personal interaction and heightened safety are the primary focuses.
We also understand the importance of affordability, which is why we’re happy to offer a flat-rate of $35/day (no hidden fees or ‘extras’ to worry about…all of our furry guests get the same experience for one price!)
We take pride in our 16 acres of beautiful property, complete with nature trails your dog will enjoy every day! When we tell you your pup will get daily exercise, we aren’t talking about a lap around a city block, or a 5 minute stroll in the grass…we are talking about a true nature tour! The trails and landscape are wonderfully diverse, with areas of dense vegetation leading to a shady forest and finally ending right at the scenic Grand River.
When it comes to exercising your dog, mental stimulation can contribute just as much as physical activity, and that’s why our exclusive nature elements set us apart from other boarding facilities. Your furry family member will spend plenty of time out of their kennel and either outdoors on the trails or enjoying group play, ensuring that by the end of the day they’re thoroughly tuckered out and ready for a quiet night’s sleep. With so much to sniff and explore, we can help ensure your dog has a truly enriched and stress-free stay while you’re away!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a typical day at Bluewater Boarding look like for my dog?
We start our mornings around 7:30am. We all head to the play-yard immediately so they can relieve themselves, and once they’ve done so we start breakfast. Once your pup has had their breakfast it’s time to play! We typically do group-play from 9am-12pm, followed by a crated rest period from 12-2. After “naptime” we have more group play, and if the weather permits it we can take them on individual walks on the back trails! We love going on nice LONG walks, where they’ll get to explore acre after acre of natural scenery. These hikes are often the highlight of the day and help to burn off tons of energy through physical and mental stimulation, leaving the dogs thoroughly relaxed and content afterward. After group play and walks it’s time for dinner and a bit more group play; during this time each crate is sanitized and the room is cleaned thoroughly. Around 10pm it’s time to cozy up in their crates and get a peaceful night’s rest! (For more information on our property and the nature walks, visit our About section!)
A bit more info:
-We have a large play yard complete with an 8ft fence for maximum security and safety.
-Our boarding/play room is climate controlled and kept to very comfortable temperatures year-round.
-Our boarding ‘facility’ is right here, attached to our own home, so unlike many boarding businesses there will always be someone here through the night with your dog!
-Our boarding/play room is equipped with a state of the art surveillance system that allows us to check on the dogs at any time, and from anywhere.
-We use slip-leads for leashes. We NEVER use a collar/clip method for walking the dogs. Slip-leads are easy to use, comfortable, and provide maximum security.
-We play soft, soothing music 24/7.
-We attempt to provide regular email updates for owners, letting you know how your dog is doing and what fun things they’ve been up to!
What are the requirements for boarding my dog?
We require all dogs to be current on the following vaccines: Rabies, DHLPP, and Bordetella (kennel cough). We strongly recommend your dog be vaccinated for Bordetella at least two weeks prior to their stay; this allows ample time for your dog to build up proper immunity.
**PLEASE NOTE: While Bordetella vaccinations offer protection against infections caused by the bacteria, they cannot prevent 100% of infections, and they cannot offer full immunity against other bacterial or viral causes of infectious tracheobronchitis. (Please click here to learn more about kennel cough).
We also require proof of a negative fecal test within a year prior to the scheduled stay.
Flea/Tick prevention is required if your dog is boarding with us in the warmer months (April-October). Your dog will be spending a considerable amount of time outdoors on our nature trails and we want to make sure they don’t pick up any hitch-hikers along the way!
ALL dogs must be at least 6 months or older (puppies must have completed their full vaccine booster regimen).
ALL dogs 1 year and older MUST be spayed/neutered. This is for their safety and the safety of the other guests. Group play is a large part of their stay here, and it is unsafe to allow intact dogs to participate.
How much does it cost to board my dog?
We charge a single flat-rate of $35/day. For those needing to board multiple dogs, we offer a discounted rate of $30/day per dog. Multi-dog discount does NOT apply during major holidays and spring break.
If your dog is picked up before 11am you will only be charged for a half-day ($15). Any pick-ups after 11am will be charged for a full day.
*Note: Arrival days always count as a full day of lodging
Do I need to bring food for my dog?
Yes. We recommend dogs be kept on their typical diet to avoid stomach upset during their stay. Please provide an adequate amount of food (packing a bit extra is always encouraged, just in case!)
Do I need to bring any toys or bedding?
Totally optional. We provide soft, cushy bed mats in each crate along with a blanket, but if you would prefer to bring your own please feel free to do so.
We have LOTS of toys to ensure your pup never gets bored, but you’re always welcome to bring whatever toys you think may make your dog’s stay more pleasant!
We have LOTS of toys to ensure your pup never gets bored, but you’re always welcome to bring whatever toys you think may make your dog’s stay more pleasant!
What are the drop-off/pick-up times?
June – September:
Sunday-Friday 8am – 11am & 2pm – 6pm. Closed Saturdays.
October – May:
Monday – Sunday 8am – 11am & 2pm – 6pm.
What happens in the event of an emergency?
While the safety of your pet is our number one priority–accidents and illnesses can happen. In the event that your dog needs medical attention, we will do what needs to be done to secure the health of your dog. We will certainly attempt to contact you or your emergency contact as soon as possible, but keep in mind this may be after your dog has already gone to the vet for care, depending on the severity of the issue. When checking in to the kennel, your signature on our check-in forms allows us to act as caretaker for your pet and make decisions in your absence. If you have any concerns or advanced directions regarding the care of your pet or the expense involved, please discuss this with us upon making your reservation.
Do you board any other animals besides dogs?
We are not able to accommodate any other animals at this time.
Are there any breed restrictions?
Absolutely not! We carefully evaluate each individual dog. We’re confident in our experience, and our ability to recognize potentially problematic behaviors in a dog, no matter the breed.
How can I pay?
We accept cash, check, all major credit cards, PayPal, and Venmo!
