Frequently Asked Questions


    During his work week, Harvey is mostly shopping on Chewy.com, but he does make time to answer your questions!

   Most dogs you see in my photos have a prong collar on while walking. They enjoy their walks more and can be trusted to walk on a busy road or past people and other dogs. The prong is safe for both us and your pets!

Q: Do you require vaccinations for my dog/all dogs?

A: Yes! In order to stay at Harvey's House, we require that all our guests have updated Rabies and Bordetella vaccines to ensure the safety of all dogs.

Q: How many dogs will you take at a time?

A: We have taken in up to 15 dogs at a time. For boarding, we try to keep it to 7 during the majority of the year, however, it depends on the combination of dogs. We will take more if we feel confident all dogs will get along. 

Q: If my dog cannot be around other dogs, will I still be able to book with you?

A: Yes! We have plenty of rooms in the house where dogs can be separated. Harvey can go anywhere if your dog does not get along with him (though, I doubt that will be the case). If your dog likes Harvey but just can't handle other dogs, you may request a private stay. We charge an additional fee for this service. 

Q: How tall is your fence? Can dogs get out?

A: Our fence is 4ft tall all around. No dog has ever attempted to jump it or wiggle through any cracks underneath. If you think your dog might try to escape, they will be kept on an extendable leash at all times. We can put them on a long lead or runner in the yard so they are still able to run and play.

Q: Will you be able to walk my dog if they pull?

A: This depends. We use a prong collar with Harvey. He knows to sit, heel, and turn with just a slight tug. Many dogs we care for pull while walking. With owners' permission, we use a prong collar if the pulling is too much, especially while walking multiple dogs. I am not a fan of harnesses because they actually allow dogs to pull more with less discomfort/choking for them while creating a more difficult time for their owners. Prong collars do not hurt dogs if used properly. They are not sharp like most people think. Each prong is dull and rounded and comes with rubber stoppers as well. They simply guide your dog to walk safely and obey commands instantly. I have used the prong on several dogs, both large and small, and have found instant success. If you are uncomfortable with your dog wearing a prong, we will not use one. However, if your dog pulls too much, we will not be able to provide a walk. Chris and I both can handle strong dogs, but we live on a main road, and want to make sure everyone is safe. 

Q: How does Harvey handle dogs that play a bit rough or can be aggressive with toys?

A: Harvey is not toy or food aggressive. If your dog steals his toys, he may try to steal them back and play keep away, but he will quickly get the hint if your dog becomes possessive. Harvey likes to keep the peace and has a high tolerance. If dogs are too aggressive, we will keep toys away all together.  

Q: Will you be able to feed my dogs separately?

A: Yes. We can either feed dogs in different rooms or at different times so food "curiosity" or aggression will not be a problem.

Q: Our dog sleeps/naps in his crate. Do we need to bring one?

A: We have two large crates and a gated playpen if needed. We also have two dog beds but most dogs prefer the couch or floor.

Q: Our dogs are used to the couch at home. Are dogs allowed on the furniture in your home?

A: In Harvey's room, all furniture is up for grabs! 

Q: How often do you let the dogs out?

A: During weekends and in the summer, dogs are outside most of the day for walks, playtime, and pee breaks in the yard. During the work week, dogs go out before we leave for work (around 6:30 am). At 11:00am, Chris comes home to let dogs out to do their business, exercise by running, chasing, or playing fetch, or just to enjoy the fresh air. When I get home, late afternoon, the dogs are able to play for the rest of the evening. 

Q: How long will dogs be left alone in your care?

A: When dogs visit, we are home with them most of the day. If we run out for errands, we are never gone more than a couple of hours. While home, if play time gets too rough or we can tell the dogs are exhausted, we will leave the room. This usually calms them down for a nap. 

If you have any other questions, please feel free to email, text us, or message Harvey on his instagram page harveyshouse_petcare