First thing in the morning, all dogs are let out into outdoor runs – either alone or with a few buddies – matched according to size and temperament. The young and boisterous go with the wild and woolly whereas the more gentile members of society enjoy a refined milieu.
The outdoor areas are well used and battle scarred with lots of interesting nooks and crannies under bushes and tree stumps – digging the odd hole is seen as character building and is actively encouraged.
Meanwhile the slaves are cleaning, disinfecting and cooking up a storm.
Lunch is served indoors, everyone dines alone – followed by a brief siesta – then its back outside for more fresh air.
All the runs have shade and water. We also have a large undercover play area for very hot or wet days.
At the end of the day, we settle each animal into bed with an individual health check which masquerades as a cuddle. Here we take the opportunity to look at eyes, ears, general demeanour and specifically check for ticks.
Bedding and Toys
We provide comfortable trampoline beds and have plenty of blankets and bedding. You’re welcome to bring along a toy, a blanket or something with the precious smell of home. We do our best to return these items but just like socks in a washing machine, things go walkabout – so nothing of great value please – leave the diamond studded Gucci collars at home.
New Arrivals
When you check your dog into Woodcroft we need the following information. Vaccination and medication status, eating habits, contact persons while you’re away, and any other important foibles including existing lumps, limps and bumps.
For pets over 10 years of age we complete a health status form with details on eyesight, hearing and mobility etc to which we can refer. If your pet is an escape artist or can pick a Yale lock, we’d like to know in advance rather than find out for ourselves.
It is important to be bright and cheerful when you hand the dog over AND leave quickly – dogs are mirrors of their owners emotions. Your pet will have a good time with us – but if you dawdle and leave in a state, the dog will make it worse for you by reflecting what you feel. Thirty seconds after you’ve gone , he or she will be having a great time and you’ll still be on the guilt trip.
If you are in any doubt, ring us later to see how things are going.
In many years of operating Woodcroft we’ve had two occasions when we had to get an owner back from holiday because the dog was unable to cope with the separation. So, if you’re really not sure whether the dog will cope, book them in for a trial stay of a night or two prior to your holiday.
