Doggie’s Wonderland dog daycare & boarding facility is hosting a Grand Opening event to celebrate the opening of its brand-new facility in Plano! The Grand Opening is set for June 22 & 23.

During the Grand Opening, Doggie’s Wonderland will hold a Meet & Greet with staff members and will offer pet parents (no dogs allowed just yet!) a tour of the new facility, so you’ll have an opportunity to see where your dog will hang out in the upcoming days. Refreshments will be served and doggie bags will be given for you to take home to your pup!

To add to the Grand Opening festivities, Doggie’s Wonderland will offer free dog daycare during the week of June 24 through June 28, available for both new and returning customers.

Doggie’s Wonderland is a cheerful daily dog daycare and boarding facility with locations in Plano and Coppell, Texas. Unlike most dog daycares, Doggie’s Wonderland follows a “kennel free” philosophy. Unless it is bedtime or dinnertime, all dogs have open access to its indoor facility and outdoor playground.

To learn more about Doggie’s Wonderland and to register your dog for free daycare during our Grand Opening week, visit www.doggieswonderland.com or call 972-881-1905.

Doggie’s Wonderland’s new facility is located at 460 Independence Parkway in Plano.

Doggie's Wonderland

Doggie’s Wonderland – Plano (NEW LOCATION)
460 Independence Parkway Plano, TX 75075 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 881-1905

We are located on the between the George Bush Turnpike and Plano Parkway on the northbound side of Independence Parkway.

Doggie’s Wonderland – Coppell
120 E. Bethel School Road Coppell, TX 75019 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 745-9100

We are located on the northeast corner of Denton Tap Road & Bethel School (across the street from the post office) and only 4 miles away from DFW International Airport.

Dog grooming may bring up a vision of show dogs getting prepared for their time in the ring. Or, maybe you just see a wet evening after bathing your dog in the tub. Whatever the case, grooming your dog may not sound like a fun or necessary task, but regular grooming will help your pup feel its best while keeping it looking good, too.

Bathing — Depending on the breed of your dog and its daily activities, some dogs may require more baths than others. According to veterinarians and groomers, bathing your dog once a month with dog shampoo or baby shampoo should do the trick to leave your dog clean and fresh without drying out its skin. Following its bath, towel-dry your dog and if they’ll allow it, use a blow dryer on a gentle speed and low heat. Unfortunately, your dog is likely to shake off any excess water, so be prepared with plenty of towels!

Brushing — Brushing your dog regularly is an important aspect of grooming that helps maintain a healthy coat and skin. When brushing your pet, brush from head to tail or from tail to head. Either way works, just make sure you cover the entire coat. Also, pay careful attention to sensitive areas like the face, ears and underbelly. If your pup has mats in these areas, it’s a good idea to have a professional take care of them to prevent a painful experience for your dog.

Teeth — Just like humans, canines need dental care, too. Though brushing your dog's teeth daily is optimal, your schedule may only allow for once or twice a week. Special dog toothbrushes and toothpaste should always be used for canine brushing, as the fluoride in human toothpaste can make dogs ill. To make brushing your dog's teeth easier, pick a time when your dog is tired and less likely to put up a fight, like after exercise.

Nail Trimming — Trimming your dog’s nails can be tricky, as dogs often don’t enjoy having their paws handled. If possible, start trimming your dog’s nails at an early age. That way, they’ll get accustomed to the process and will resist less in the future when they’re harder to restrain. If your dog is apprehensive to having its nails trimmed, start by trimming one paw at a time, allowing for your dog to take a “break” between paws. First-time nail trimmers should see a professional for instruction.

Haircuts — If you’re looking to shape up your dog’s cut, you can likely find a breed-specific instructional guide to help you properly give your dog a haircut. Start by brushing out your dog’s coat to remove any mats or tangles. If you’re using clippers on your dog, be aware of the temperature of the clippers and make sure to check them frequently for overheating to prevent burns on your dog’s skin.

Grooming your dog can be a tedious task to perform at home, so if you’re looking for a safe, convenient place to take your pup, contact Doggie’s Wonderland, dog daycare and boarding facilities located in Plano and Coppell. Doggie’s Wonderland offers grooming services (bathing and nail trimming) in house at both locations. Just schedule your dog’s grooming appointment when you bring them in for boarding or daycare.

Doggie’s Wonderland is a cheerful daily dog daycare and boarding facility with locations in Plano and Coppell, Texas. Unlike most dog daycares, Doggie’s Wonderland follows a “kennel free” philosophy. Unless it is bedtime or dinnertime, all dogs have open access to its indoor facility and outdoor playground. 

For information about Doggie’s Wonderland’s boarding, daycare or grooming services, call (972) 881-1905 or visit www.doggieswonderland.com.

Doggie's Wonderland

Doggie’s Wonderland – Plano
505 Alma Drive Plano, TX 75075 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 881-1905

We are located on the southwest corner of Alma & Plano Parkway. Across the street from Collin Creek Mall and just one block away from Central Expressway (Highway 75) or George Bush Turnpike (Highway 190).

Doggie’s Wonderland – Coppell
120 E. Bethel School Road Coppell, TX 75019 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 745-9100

We are located on the northeast corner of Denton Tap Road & Bethel School (across the street from the post office) and only 4 miles away from DFW International Airport.

In Texas, we’re frequently concerned about ways to keep our pets safe during the summertime heat, but don’t forget that temperatures often drop below freezing during the winter. Even when daytime temperatures are pleasant, it’s not uncommon for temps to dip below 32 degrees overnight.

While many dogs are content snuggling up indoors during chilly weather, there are plenty of dogs that still want to be active outside, according to Christopher Lu, Director of Operations at Doggie’s Wonderland in Coppell and Plano, Texas. “Dogs are active animals throughout the year and winter is no different,” Lu said. “As long as pet owners take the proper precautions during cold weather, dogs can still have fun without being cooped up indoors at all times.” 

Pet owners should be aware of the risks associated with cold weather and what preventative measures to take for both indoor and outdoor pets to keep them safe, healthy and happy. 

• Keep your dog inside as much as possible when it gets cold. A good rule of thumb, especially for short-haired breeds, is that if you’re cold enough to go inside, your dog is probably ready to find warmth as well.

• When pets will be outside for significant amounts of time, make sure they have water that’s not frozen, a bed off the ground, and an appropriate shelter to keep them out of the wind, rain, sleet or snow.

• Make sure your dog has fresh water that’s not frozen. If your pup’s water bowl freezes over, it may go searching for water in puddles or buckets — which could be contaminated with toxic substances like antifreeze or oil.

• If your dog goes outside during snowy or icy weather, make sure to thoroughly wipe off paws and pads, legs and stomach to remove any ice, salt or dirt that may have accumulated on his/her feet. This way, your dog won’t be tempted to lick the salt off their feet, which could be tough on its digestive tract.

• If your dog still has regular outdoor play sessions in the winter, give it an extra serving of food, especially protein. This will keep them in good shape and keep their energy levels up when cold weather can drain your pet’s energy. 

• Refrain from shaving your dog’s coat in the winter. He or she will need the extra protection when the weather gets cold. If you have a short-haired breed, consider purchasing a dog jacket or sweater for your pet if they will wear it. Even with this protection, it’s important to keep an eye on your pet’s comfort, as dogs lose most of their body heat from the pads on their feet and their ears. 

• Don’t leave your dog alone in your car during winter months. Just as cars can lock in heat during the summer, they can also hold in cold air.

• Antifreeze is a lethal poison to dogs, so make sure all vehicle spills are cleaned up.

If your dog needs a warm, fun place to spend his days while you’re at work, call Doggie’s Wonderland or learn more about doggie day care and boarding services at www.doggieswonderland.com.

Doggie’s Wonderland is a cheerful daily dog daycare and boarding facility with locations in Plano and Coppell, Texas. Unlike most dog daycare, Doggie’s Wonderland follows a “kennel free” philosophy. Unless it is bedtime or dinnertime, all dogs have open access to its indoor facility and outdoor playground.

Doggie's Wonderland

Doggie’s Wonderland – Plano
505 Alma Drive Plano, TX 75075 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 881-1905

We are located on the southwest corner of Alma & Plano Parkway. Across the street from Collin Creek Mall and just one block away from Central Expressway (Highway 75) or George Bush Turnpike (Highway 190).

Doggie’s Wonderland – Coppell
120 E. Bethel School Road Coppell, TX 75019 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 745-9100

We are located on the northeast corner of Denton Tap Road & Bethel School (across the street from the post office) and only 4 miles away from DFW International Airport.

www.doggieswonderland.com

You've probably got an idea of your family’s upcoming holiday plans, but what about another member of your family — your dog?  If your pet doesn't fit into this year’s holiday schedule and you’re thinking of boarding, make sure you’re taking the adequate steps to ensure he or she also has a happy and healthy holiday season. 

Though many dog owners feel guilty about leaving their pet behind during a holiday vacation, it can be a necessary part of pet ownership. 

“While dogs are susceptible to feelings of homesickness, they are quick to adapt to a changing environment and owners shouldn't feel bad about leaving their pet behind during family vacations,” said Christopher Lu, Director of Operations at Doggie’s Wonderland, a dog daycare and boarding facility with locations in Plano and Coppell. 

“It is likely that your pet will actually have a good time during its stay at the boarding facility,” Lu said, adding that as a pet owner, there are a few simple steps you can take to make sure your dog enjoys its “vacation” as much as you enjoy yours. 

Do your research.
Trust your senses. Make sure to properly research the kennel and staff to verify that the organization is prepared to effectively care for customers’ dogs, keeping clean, secure facilities with plenty of room for the pups to run during play time. 

Schedule your boarding reservations early.
Millions of people travel during the holiday season without the option of bringing along family pets.  Boarding facilities are quick to fill up during the holidays, leaving few reliable alternatives for those without reservations.  If you have a boarding facility in mind for your pet, be sure you make your appointments before the location is full. 

Help your dog enjoy its stay.
Take some of your pet’s items — such as a blanket, bed or favorite toys — for it to have during its stay at the boarding facility.  Make sure to label each item, while keeping in mind that anything left with your pet during its stay may become damaged or lost. 

Keep your goodbyes short and sweet.
The American Kennel Club says you shouldn't feel guilty or apologize to your dog when you drop it off at its boarding appointment — he or she may sense your discomfort and become upset.  Instead, act enthusiastic about your pet’s time at the boarding facility by using positive terms and keeping goodbyes short and simple. 

The holidays are just around the corner, and boarding reservations are going quickly.  If you’re looking for a safe, reliable place for your dog to spend the holidays, call Doggie’s Wonderland or learn more about boarding services at www.doggieswonderland.com.

Doggie’s Wonderland is a cheerful daily dog daycare and boarding facility with locations in Plano and Coppell, Texas. Unlike most dog daycare, Doggie’s Wonderland follows a “kennel free” philosophy. Unless it is bedtime or dinnertime, all dogs have open access to its indoor facility and outdoor playground.

Doggie's Wonderland

Doggie’s Wonderland – Plano
505 Alma Drive Plano, TX 75075 (MAP)
Tel: 972-881-1905

We are located on the southwest corner of Alma & Plano Parkway. Across the street from Collin Creek Mall and just one block away from Central Expressway (Highway 75) or George Bush Turnpike (Highway 190).

Doggie’s Wonderland – Coppell
120 E. Bethel School Road Coppell, TX 75019 (MAP)
Tel: 972-745-9100

We are located on the northeast corner of Denton Tap Road & Bethel School (across the street from the post office) and only 4 miles away from DFW International Airport.

Is your dog anxious? A big barker? Jumping all over the place? He might be trying to tell you something. A lot of dogs don’t get enough exercise in their daily routine and they end up expending their energy in ways that look like behavior problems.

“All dogs regardless of size or breed need to be taken on daily walks, jogs, runs, bike rides, rollerblading, stair climbing, swimming or some means of getting the dog moving,” said Christopher Lu, Director of Operations at Doggie’s Wonderland in Coppell and Plano, Texas. “It is not just about their physical health, but mental as well.”

A lack of exercise allows the build-up of mental energy that is normally released in a walk and you get hyper-activity, neurotic and/or obsessive-compulsive behaviors. “Excitement in a dog is not a sign of happiness,” adds Lu. “That’s an incorrect human interpretation of behavior. Excitement means your dog is unstable and needs energy release.”

In addition to difficult behaviors, lack of exercise leads to obesity, arthritis, diabetes, hip dysplasia and other problems. “Just like humans, excess weight and no exercise can age a dog prematurely. Since they are so much smaller than us, just a little bit of excess weight can shorten a dog’s lifespan and make them slow down and develop problems much earlier than if they were a healthy weight,” said Lu.

Bigger breeds tend to need more than smaller dogs, but all dogs need exercise. “Active breeds need a minimum of 30 minutes of hard aerobic exercise daily, preferably 45-60 minutes,” notes Lu. “The best rule of thumb is that a tired dog is a good dog. If you pay attention, your dog will let you know how much he needs. He should be tired without being exhausted.”

It is tough for a lot of families to give their dogs the exercise they need on a daily basis. With work, school, and other activities, walking for 45 minutes to an hour with the dog can seem overwhelming. Hot weather in North Texas can make it hard as well. There are other alternatives. Besides working in the walk with your daily exercise, some owners teach their dogs how to walk on treadmills – great for rainy days especially – or they hire dog walkers or they take their dogs to a daycare facility like Doggie’s Wonderland where they can work out some of that excess energy.

“With doggie daycare, both his mind and body are exercised and your dog should come home worn out and happy,” said Lu.

Doggie’s Wonderland is a cheerful daily dog daycare and boarding facility with locations in Plano and Coppell, Texas. Unlike most dog daycare, Doggie’s Wonderland follows a “kennel free” philosophy. Unless it is bedtime or dinnertime, all dogs have open access to its indoor facility and outdoor playground.

Doggie's Wonderland

Doggie’s Wonderland – Plano
505 Alma Drive Plano, TX 75075 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 881-1905

We are located on the southwest corner of Alma & Plano Parkway. Across the street from Collin Creek Mall and just one block away from Central Expressway (Highway 75) or George Bush Turnpike (Highway 190).

Doggie’s Wonderland – Coppell
120 E. Bethel School Road Coppell, TX 75019 (MAP)
Tel: (972) 745-9100

We are located on the northeast corner of Denton Tap Road & Bethel School (across the street from the post office) and only 4 miles away from DFW International Airport.