What are your office hours & what times do you provide services?
Office Hours: 8:30 Am- 5:30 pm Monday through Friday
Office Closures: Weekends & Major Marked Holidays
We close twice yearly for up to two weeks during non-peak times for company retreat. Advance notice will be given.
Dog Daycare hours of operation:
Monday-Saturday 7 am-6:30 pm
Check-in 8 am-10 am. Early morning check-in is available 7 am-8 am for an additional $10 fee.
Check-out 4 pm-6:30 pm
Uninterrupted Nap Time 12 pm-3 pm
Sunday Closed (boarding care only)
No daycare on major marked Holidays.
Dog Boarding hours of operation:
Seven days per week 7 am-6:30 pm
Boarding check-in is 8 am-10 am or 7 am-8 am for an additional $10 fee. Evening check-in is unavailable. You must request a window at the time of reservation.
Boarding check-out is 8 am-10 am, 4 pm-6:30 pm, or 7 am-8 am for an additional $10 fee. You must inform us of your reservation of your desired check-out window. You must request a window at the time of reservation.
Check-out is unavailable after 6 pm. Next-day pick-up is required.
Boarding check-in or check-out is unavailable on major marked holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day). Check-in or check-out must be the day before or after the holiday.
Are you licensed, bonded, and Insured?
Yes. We are licensed with Seminole County and Orange County. We carry commercial liability insurance and are bonded.
We are also BBB Accredited, PACKPRO certified, members of the IBPSA, Pet Sitters Associates LLC, PetSitUSA, and Professional United Pet Sitters LLC.
Do you allow full facility tours?
No. Our insurance does not allow us to offer tours due to liability reasons. You are welcome to visit us in person in our lobby to get a feel for us. Up to date pictures of the facility are available on our website and Google.
How far in advance should I book services?
We strongly recommend booking daycare service 1-2 weeks in advance.
We strongly recommend boarding care 3-4 weeks in advance.
Do you offer service on weekends or holidays?
Yes! We perform service on weekends and holidays.
Please note that our office is closed on the weekends & major marked holidays.
Weekend and Holiday care is subject to availability.
We require the customer’s request with advance notice. Fees will apply for short-notice accommodations. Please see below.
Do you require payment before my service or after it is over?
Yes, we require full payment for ALL services before the first day of service.
What is the payment policy?
A 50% non-refundable deposit is due when boarding services are booked. The remaining balance is due five days before check-in. Any unpaid balance at check-in will result in a late fee of $10.
All service invoices are due 5-7 days before the first service date.
ALL invoices will reflect your due date.
NO REFUNDS.
Do you charge a fee for late payments?
Yes, a late charge of $10 may be added to any outstanding balance.
Do you charge holiday fees?
Yes, we charge $5 per day during major Holiday weeks, as outlined in our surcharge schedule. When you sign up as a new client, you will receive a list of dates that incur a fee. This is a way for us to reward our pet caretakers who give of their holiday time.
How is the payment method accepted?
As the preferred payment method, we accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and AMEX via our secure software, which processes secure payments via a client portal. Auto-pay is required.
Your credit card will be charged before your visits begin, except for holiday and vacation bookings, for which we charge the full balance seven days in advance. Please make sure you add your credit card to file.
What is the boarding cancellation policy?
Services may be canceled for any reason at any time without questions. Fees will apply within less than five days of cancellation.
Because Winter Park Paws allocates its suites and staffing in advance for scheduled Pet Services, cancellation requests for any scheduled boarding services must be received via the client portal within five days before the check-in date, except during company blackout periods (re. holiday surcharge dates), a seven-day notice is required. Any payments received will not be credited for under five days’ notice. With proper notice, the client will receive a credit for the remaining amount paid for future pet services.
For late cancellations or no-shows, any credits or refunds are at the sole discretion of Winter Park Paws and will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
What is your cancellation policy for daycare?
Because Winter Park Paws allocates its staffing for scheduled Pet Services in advance, cancellation requests for any services planned other than boarding must be received via the client portal. The client will receive a credit for the remaining amount paid within 24 hours before the service start date to receive full credit, except during company blackout periods (re. holiday surcharge dates); a 5-day notice is required to receive a 50% credit. With proper notice, the client will receive a credit for the amount paid towards future pet services.
For late cancellations or no-shows, any credits or refunds are at the sole discretion of Winter Park Paws and will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Do you require my pet to be spayed/neutered to join dog daycare or boarding?
Your pet must be spayed or neutered by 12 months of age to attend our daycare and boarding services. Proof is required.
Intact females under 12 months of age may not attend daycare while in a heat cycle and need vet clearance to treat or return. There are no exceptions.
Intact males under 12 months of age who show behavioral issues (mounting, excessive sniffing of dogs, or marking) will be asked to return post-neuter.
Do you require my pet to be vaccinated to receive service?
All pets must have current core vaccinations while under our care. Proof must be obtained on your client profile.
What is required for my dog to attend dog daycare & boarding?
Up-to-date vaccinations required:
> Rabies
> Bordetella (req. every 6-12 months)
> Distemper (DHPP)
> Canine influenza Bivalent is strongly recommended
Health/Preventive Care Requirements:
> Negative fecal results for parasites (yearly)
> Negative heartworm test (annually).
> Proof of flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
The list is considered core dog vaccinations (recommended for all dogs, regardless of exposure risk/lifestyle). Canine influenza, Lepto and Lyme disease vaccination is recommended but not legally required.
Do you require flea/tick & heartworm maintenance for my dog to attend dog daycare & boarding?
We require that flea/tick & heartworm prevention be updated and maintained for daycare and boarding. Proof is required to be obtained on your client profile.
If you have a puppy or kitten, let us know. If your pet is exempt from or on a holistic plan, please provide written proof from your vet.
Can I sign up for the service online?
Yes! Please visit to get started to apply for service. Once you become a client, you will have full access to a client portal and can book any service through your client app at your convenience.
Do you offer curbside pick-up & drop-off for dog daycare and boarding clients?
Yes! We offer curbside pick-up & drop-off for dog daycare and boarding clients, but you are free to come into our shop to make a purchase or grab your complimentary coffee.
Are there dogs of all sizes in your dog daycare and boarding facility?
Yes! We take care of dogs of any size and weight. We do not specifically cater to small or large dogs. We accept dogs with socialization experience, are well-mannered, possess basic listening skills, are people- and pet-friendly, and have no history of biting other people or pets.
Do you require a minimum number of days my dog has to attend daycare?
No, we do not have a mandatory minimum requirement. However, At Winter Park Paws Dog Daycare and Boarding, we aim to create a safe, stable, and fun environment for canines. In addition, we strive to build lasting and meaningful relationships with our clients and their pets. Our mission is to provide an atmosphere conducive to leadership, education, and development. As well as maintain healthy canine relationships, a positive pack balance, and social comfort among our guests. Dogs must practice socializing in various aspects to remain confident. Consistency gives your dog a sense of security, reduces transitional anxiety, maintains sharp social cues/manners, promotes balance, and is respectful of others, including handlers.
As a niche facility, we are building a unique environment designed for good, balanced, well-mannered, happy canines who want to interact with people and dogs. Of course, dog-to-dog interaction is not required, nor forced, to board with us, but pets must be confident around people, balanced, and able to self-regulate.
These principles provide our guests consistency (parent and pet), reduce pet behavior inconsistency, and promote balance within the group setting. In our professional experience and observations, inconsistency often causes dogs to become insecure, experience separation and social anxiety, inability to self-regulate, and unpredictable behavior/manners. Lapses in attendance usually mean a readjustment period is needed. Readjustment time varies from one dog to the next. If your pet has the opportunity to remain familiar, readjustment is not required.
Daycare participation is a positive behavior-based program. Therefore, participation depends entirely on consistent, appropriate behavior (confidence around other dogs/people, balanced behavior, self-regulating ability, and genuine desire to be in a group setting). In addition, to be eligible to participate in our daycare program, dogs must display appropriate socialization skills and be able to rest calmly in their private area.
For pet parents who want their pets to attend daycare regularly, we ask clients to maintain a bi-weekly attendance minimum. Bi-weekly attendance means we must see your pet at least every other week. Weekly attendance would be ideal to remain sharp. Regular attendance in daycare is necessary for your pet to maintain consistent behavior in the group dynamic. Puppies 4 months to 12 months, we would like to see once per week, especially for those who will also want to board their pet with us. Practice in the environment will make for a confident boarding dog in the long term.
Pet parents who want to board their pet occasionally throughout the year (not attend daycare frequently) and enjoy their pet participating in daycare during their stay ask that your pet visit at least once monthly for daycare. Consistency in the daycare program will give your dog a higher group participation rate. In addition, frequent attendance will allow your dog to remain familiar with our regular dogs, routines, environment, staff handling, manners, and socialization skills. Dogs who do not maintain this recommendation will be re-evaluated during the first day of their boarding check-in. They will only be allowed to participate in the daycare program should their behavior align with group participation standards. Should pet parents choose not to follow the recommendation for attendance, this will increase the chance that the dog may be ineligible for our daycare program during their boarding stay. Additionally, when lapses occur, this does not allow your pet to socialize on the same level as a consistent daycare dog. Regular exposure is to the dog's benefit.
At Winter Park Paws, it is crucial to communicate the need for such standards. Canine behavior is complex, and our job as pet care professionals is to understand the pet's needs and provide a space that nurtures their fundamental necessities.
Do you have a maximum number of days my dog can attend daycare per week?
No! However, It is recommended that dogs do not exceed 2-3 days of daycare per week (depending on breed), as overstimulation can occur. Our company does not support the overstimulation of dogs. A tired dog is not always a happy, healthy dog.
Do you have different groups during daycare?
Yes! We do group rotations during daycare.
How do you control the spread of bacteria, viruses, and pet odors?
Providing our staff and clients with a healthy environment during their stay is part of our quality commitment to you. Reducing the spread of bacteria and viruses within our community is very important. We achieve this by practicing a strict cleaning regimen, using professional animal facility-grade pet-safe and eco-friendly cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing products. We clean our play areas, suites, and outdoor area daily and sanitize toys and beds daily. Food and water bowls are also cleaned and sanitized daily.
What type of staff will be around my pets?
All members of Winter Park Paws possess a high level of patience, kindness, respect, positivity, and love for animals. They have passed a background check and been certified in Pet CPR & first aid.
Are dogs observed at all times?
100%! We make sure to monitor all dogs in the group. Their safety is our top priority.
Is there a chance my pet gets scratched, injured, or dirty at daycare or boarding?
Yes, it can happen. It is a playground for dogs! All clients allow their pets to play at their own risk, and sometimes accidents happen while playing. We always try our best to avoid any injuries.
Will my dog eat other dogs’ stools?
If your dog is prone to eating stools of their own or other dogs, please inform us. We do our best to ensure dogs do not consume stool, but there is a possibility that it will happen in this environment. Stool eating is a sign of nutritional issues and must be addressed at home to correct and prevent it.
Will my dog be tired, sore, or worn out after daycare?
There is a chance that your dog can exhibit being tired, sore, or worn out due to attending daycare. This is normal due to the activity, primarily if they are not used to it.
Is there nap time and breaks during daycare?
Absolutely! Nap time and breaks are required throughout the day. Our designated nap time is from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Nap time may vary depending on the group type. It is so important to unwind and decompress in the middle of the day to avoid dogs becoming overstimulated and exhausted. We even play calming music for them to relax!
Is there an indoor and outdoor play area at the daycare center?
Yes! We offer indoor and outdoor areas for dogs. Our indoor space is air conditioned and has dog play equipment, dog couches, and elevated cots. Our outdoor space has an oscillating fan, two automatic fresh running water bowls, a dig-proof fence, and K9 artificial grass. We also have a small pool and canopy for those hot days, with access to fresh water at all times.
Will there be toys for my dog to play with at your daycare facility?
Yes! We offer toys of all sizes—indestructible and safe toy options. We also have small pools for those who enjoy getting wet. Toy time is only allowed for dogs who do not possess guarding habits. If your dog is prone to guarding toys, they will be placed on a break during toy time.
Do I need to bring my dog’s bedding and toys to daycare or boarding?
No! We will provide all the necessary items for their stay. If you insist on leaving an article of clothing (e.g., a T-shirt), cot topper, or special blanket to aid in their separation, please limit personal belongings to 3 items that must be washed and free of bugs before entering the building. We are not liable for any damaged or lost items you leave with them. Solied items will be thrown away.
Do you work on basic manners?
Yes! Our structured mentality includes daily activities that keep dogs mentally, physically, and emotionally stimulated while maintaining balance. Any dog that exhibits poor manners will be removed from the playgroup immediately and placed in a room to relax. Then, we will reintroduce them if their behavior is manageable. If the behavior persists, the pet will be removed permanently, and the owner will be contacted.
Do you have first aid equipment in case of a minor incident?
Yes! We have a pet and staff first aid station.
Do you praise good behavior or correct bad behavior? How do you avoid dog fights?
We use positive reinforcement through positive words, calm body language, and treats. We will correct poor behavior with redirection. We are constantly observing the pet’s body language and energy. When we observe an immediate need to disrupt poor behavior, we will intervene by using body-blocking techniques, leash redirection, and sounds such as clapping. A hose or air horn will be used if needed in critical times.
My pet has bitten someone or another pet before. Will you still care for my dog?
For our staff's and other pets' safety, we will NOT accept pets with a history of biting someone or another animal.
My pet has limited or impaired function (deaf, blind, three-legged, etc.). Will you care for it?
As long as your pet’s impaired function is not life-threatening to themselves or others, we will gladly accommodate your pet’s needs.
My pet has had a significant medical situation. Do I need to tell you, and will you still serve me?
We must be aware of any past or present conditions primarily to determine the best medical conditions to determine if we can serve you and your pet. We treat each client on an individual basis, and service is dependent on personal circumstances.
Do you accept pets that possess resource-guarding habits?
Due to the potential adverse effects of resource guarding with toys/people/food, or other pets, we do not accept any pets who possess such qualities for the safety of our staff and other pets. Resource guarding causes issues within a pack and poses a danger to humans and other pets. An animal behaviorist must modify resource guarding.
Do you have breed or weight limit restrictions in your services?
No, we do not have breed or weight restrictions. We accept dogs of any breed and weight as long as they are friendly, non-aggressive, well-behaved with humans and other dogs (daycare & boarding), and have NO history of aggression or biting.
We also do not discriminate based on breed. All breeds are welcome.
During our meet and greet, we will observe your pet to make sure we are a good fit for your pets, and at that time we will determine whether or not we fit your needs.