Pawliday Inn
Before your dog spends a full day playing at Pawliday Inn, they come in for a dog daycare meet and greet. It's free, there's no cost, and it's the first step for every daycare dog. If you've never done one before, it's natural to wonder what happens, what to bring and whether your dog can "fail." This guide explains what a meet and greet is for, how to prepare, and what comes after.
What a meet and greet is for
A meet and greet is a chance for two things to happen at once.
Your dog gets to see the place. New buildings, new people, new smells and the sound of other dogs can be a lot. A first, low-pressure visit means the first full day isn't a total surprise.
We get to know your dog. Every dog is different. Some charge in tail wagging. Others hang back and need a few minutes. Learning how your dog handles a new place and new people helps us plan their day. At Pawliday Inn, play yards are separated by energy level, so understanding whether your dog is a nonstop player or a calm sniffer matters.
It's also your chance to ask questions and see where your dog will spend their days.
What to bring
Vaccine records
Every daycare dog needs current Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccinations, plus regular flea, tick and intestinal parasite prevention. Ask your vet for records that show the date each vaccine was given and when it's due again. Our guide to vaccines required for boarding and daycare explains each one.
Your dog on a secure leash
Use a well-fitted collar or harness and a regular leash, not a retractable one. A new place can surprise even calm dogs.
Your questions
Write them down before you come. Common ones include how drop-off works, what a typical day looks like, and how we handle dogs who are new to group play.
What to tell us about your dog
Honest information helps us keep every dog safe, including yours. Please tell us about any:
- Aggression toward dogs or people
- Fearfulness, including fear of men, children, loud noises or other dogs
- Resource guarding of food, toys, water or people
- Separation anxiety
- Escape tendencies, like fence climbing, digging or door dashing
- Prior bites or injuries, given or received
None of these automatically means a dog can't come. It means we can plan better. A dog who guards toys, for example, needs a different setup than a dog who doesn't care about toys at all.
Also mention health details, like allergies, past injuries, joint problems or medication, plus anything about your dog's routine that helps us understand them.
How to help your dog have a good visit
Burn a little energy first
A normal walk before you come helps take the edge off excitement, without wearing your dog out completely.
Keep your own energy calm
Dogs pick up on our nerves. A relaxed, upbeat tone helps more than lots of reassurance.
Don't feed a big meal right before
A full stomach plus excitement can upset some dogs. A normal breakfast at the usual time is fine.
Skip the visit if your dog is sick
If your dog is coughing, vomiting, has diarrhea or seems unusually tired, reschedule and call your vet. We may refuse service to dogs who show signs of illness or a contagious condition.
Can a dog "fail" a meet and greet?
It's better to think of it as finding out whether group daycare suits your dog right now. Most dogs who enjoy other dogs do well. Some dogs are happier with people than with a crowd of dogs, and that's not a flaw. Puppies who aren't finished with their vaccine series may need to wait. Dogs who are very fearful or have a history of serious fights may need a different kind of care.
If you're not sure whether daycare is a good fit, our article is dog daycare right for my dog? covers temperament, age and energy signs to look for.
After the meet and greet
Once your dog is ready to start, you can book online. A card on file is required.
Daycare at Pawliday Inn is full-day. Check-in is from 7 to 10 a.m., and check-out is from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dogs get outdoor play in yards separated by energy level, with rest time and snack breaks through the day. Optional add-ons include a short walk, an extra meal or an enrichment treat.
Our guide to your dog's first day of daycare walks through what that first full day looks like. For more about our program, see dog daycare in Houston.
We offer prepaid day packages and a multi-dog discount. Current rates are on our homepage.
Scheduling your meet and greet
Our hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday by appointment. Call us at (346) 522 4472 or email admin@paw-lidayinn.com to set up a time.
Pawliday Inn is at 11206 Cedarhurst Dr in southwest Houston. Look for the larger-than-life pup on our building.
Frequently asked questions
Is the meet and greet really free?
Yes. There's no cost for the meet and greet.
Do I need vaccine records for the meet and greet?
Yes, bring them. Your dog needs current Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccinations, plus regular flea, tick and intestinal parasite prevention.
Can I bring two dogs to the same meet and greet?
Call ahead and let us know. Each dog is its own individual, so tell us about each one's behavior history.
What if my dog is shy at first?
That's common. Many dogs warm up once they get to know a place. Tell us if your dog tends to be nervous with new people or dogs.