Getting Started &
the Pawdit
What is a Pawdit?
A Pawdit is your dog’s personalized introduction to Fairview Boarding. It gives us time to get to know the dog behind the reservation—their personality, favorite activities, comfort level and individual needs. We explore what sparks their interest, how they connect with our caregivers and what helps them feel comfortable in a new environment. These discoveries help us shape a care experience that feels rewarding and truly their own.
What happens during my dog’s Pawdit?
Choosing the right care environment matters. A Pawdit helps us determine whether Fairview Boarding is a good fit for your dog before they join us for lodging or enrichment daycare. It also gives your dog an opportunity to become familiar with our caregivers and surroundings before a longer visit. Understanding their needs from the beginning allows us to make thoughtful care decisions and build a foundation of trust. Every dog must complete and graduate their Pawdit before attending lodging or daycare.
How do I schedule a Pawdit?
Contact our Client Experience team to arrange your dog’s Pawdit. We’ll guide you through getting started, discuss your dog’s needs and explain the health records and preparation required for their visit. Please let us know about any concerns, handling preferences or routines that may help your dog feel at ease. The more we understand before they arrive, the more thoughtfully we can welcome them.
What happens after my dog graduates?
Once your dog graduates, they can join us for lodging or enrichment daycare. We use what we learned during their Pawdit to guide their activities, interactions and care. Their Pawdit is the beginning of an ongoing relationship. As we get to know your dog through future visits, we continue learning about their preferences and adjusting their experience. Whether they love scent adventures, puzzles or quiet affection, those details help us make each visit feel familiar and fulfilling.
What if my dog doesn’t graduate their Pawdit?
Graduation is based on whether your dog is suited to Fairview Boarding’s environment and personalized approach to care. We consider how they connect with our caregivers, respond to daily routines and comfortably receive the hands-on attention that defines our guest experience. If your dog does not meet our admission criteria, we’ll explain our observations with care and respect. Maintaining these standards helps us provide the attentive, safe and enriching experience our guests and their families expect.
Our Approach to Dog Care
What makes care at Fairview Boarding different?
At Fairview Boarding, we take time to know your dog as an individual—their personality, preferences, routines and the details that help them feel at home. Those discoveries guide how we spend time with them, introduce activities and support their comfort throughout each visit. Our approach brings together personal attention, thoughtful enrichment and relationships with our caregivers. For families who value attentive care, it means knowing their dog is spending time with people who recognize what makes them unique.
Do dogs participate in group play?
All play and enrichment at Fairview Boarding take place individually with our caregivers. We intentionally choose this approach so each dog receives dedicated attention, with activities tailored to their interests and comfort level. Individual play also allows us to welcome dogs who prefer human companionship or don’t enjoy interacting with unfamiliar dogs, provided they graduate their Pawdit. It avoids the risk of fights during group play and limits close contact between dogs, helping reduce opportunities for communicable illnesses to spread. Whether your dog loves exploring the play yard, following an intriguing scent or enjoying quiet affection, their time with us centers on their enjoyment, safety and relationship with our caregivers.
How do you personalize my dog’s care?
Personalized care begins with your dog’s Pawdit and the information you share with us. We learn about their handling preferences, feeding routines and what helps them settle comfortably. These details guide our everyday care and help our team build a familiar, trusting relationship with your dog. For families seeking a more tailored activity experience, our enrichment program and additional services offer opportunities to build on your dog’s interests through scent exploration, puzzles, adventures and extra individual attention. These experiences are included in select packages or available as add-ons, allowing you to choose the level of engagement you would like for your dog.
What is enrichment, and why does it matter?
Enrichment gives dogs opportunities to use their senses, explore, solve problems and enjoy behaviors that come naturally to them. It might involve investigating a scent trail, working through a food puzzle, discovering a new walking route or exploring an engaging activity with a caregiver. A fulfilling day includes opportunities to think and make choices as well as move. Thoughtfully selected enrichment adds interest and purpose to your dog’s experience, with activities suited to their abilities and preferences.
What makes your enrichment experiences special?
Our enrichment program combines individual attention with imaginative experiences. Monthly themes and new activities each week create a changing world of scent discoveries, puzzles and adventures for participating dogs. Behind each playful story is a dog-centered activity. We adapt the challenge and pace to the individual, giving each dog opportunities to explore and succeed. For returning guests, this creates fresh experiences alongside familiar caregivers and routines.
Is enrichment included in every visit?
Enrichment is available as an add-on to daycare and is included in select lodging experiences. It can also be added to other lodging reservations. Every guest receives individual care and attention. Adding enrichment gives your dog access to our monthly themed adventures and purposeful activities that engage their mind, body and natural instincts. Our Client Experience team can help you include enrichment when arranging your dog’s visit.
Can my dog attend if they don’t enjoy other dogs?
Dogs do not need to enjoy socializing with other dogs to be considered for admission. Because we offer individual play and enrichment, their activities center on time with our caregivers. They do, however, need to be able to receive care safely and settle in an environment where other dogs may be seen or heard. Their Pawdit allows us to assess whether they meet those requirements and are suited to the Fairview Boarding experience.
Overnight Lodging
What lodging experiences do you offer?
We offer four lodging experiences: Signature, VIP Enrichment, Elite and Concierge. Each provides a comfortable place to rest and attentive care from our team, with additional activities and amenities determined by the experience you select. For families who want their dog’s stay to include more engagement, our elevated lodging experiences offer enrichment and additional personal attention. Concierge also includes daily updates, helping you stay connected while you’re away. Our Client Experience team can explain each option and help you plan your dog’s stay. All lodging guests must graduate their Pawdit before their first overnight reservation.
What should I bring for my dog’s stay?
Please bring your dog’s regular food, any required medications and clear instructions for their care. Keeping their usual diet helps us maintain a familiar part of their routine. If you would like to send a comfort item from home, please check with our team about suitable belongings before arrival. Label everything with your dog’s name and let us know about dietary restrictions, feeding preferences or other important details. We’ll explain what your selected lodging experience provides so you can pack thoughtfully.
Can you follow my dog’s feeding routine and administer medication?
Please share your dog’s usual meal portions, feeding times and any preparation instructions before their stay. We use those details to guide their meals and monitor how well they are eating. If your dog requires medication, contact our team before booking to confirm that we can accommodate their needs and discuss any applicable charges. Bring medications in their original labeled containers with clear directions. Please also tell us about any health changes before arrival so we can prepare for their care.
What will my dog do during their stay?
Your dog’s stay includes meals, individual potty outings, care from our team and time to rest. We do not offer group play; interactions and activities take place individually with our caregivers. The additional experiences depend on the lodging package and services you choose. Enrichment, extra cuddle time and training options can bring more engagement to their visit through activities suited to their interests. Our team can help you create a stay with the balance of comfort, attention and adventure you would like for your dog.
Will I receive updates while my dog is staying with you?
Daily updates are included with our Concierge lodging experience, giving you a regular connection to your dog’s stay and the moments that make it special. For other lodging experiences, our Client Experience team can explain the communication included with your reservation. You’re also welcome to contact us for a check-in. If we have a concern about your dog’s health or well-being, we will contact you regardless of the lodging experience you select.
Enrichment Daycare
(Barksville Adventures)
How is enrichment daycare different from traditional daycare?
Our enrichment daycare is designed to give your dog a fulfilling day through a thoughtful balance of mental stimulation, physical activity and rest. Scent exploration, puzzles and purposeful play provide opportunities to use their natural instincts, make choices and enjoy satisfying challenges. Every experience takes place individually with a caregiver, allowing us to tailor the activity and pace to your dog. We believe a successful daycare day is about more than coming home tired. Our goal is for your dog to return home calm, content and fulfilled—with their mind engaged, their body exercised and their individual needs thoughtfully supported.
What will my dog do during their visit?
Your dog may investigate scents, solve puzzles, explore the play yard or enjoy activities inspired by our monthly enrichment story. We introduce new activities each week, giving returning guests fresh opportunities for discovery. We use what we learned during your dog’s Pawdit, along with their responses that day, to guide their participation. Some dogs eagerly tackle a challenge; others enjoy gentle encouragement and time to investigate. The goal is an engaging experience they can enjoy with confidence.
What makes your monthly themes special?
Our Barksville adventures bring a new enrichment story to life each month, with fresh activities every week. Your dog becomes part of the unfolding story—following clues, searching for hidden treasures and exploring intriguing scents through individual experiences with our caregivers. Every adventure is thoughtfully designed to engage your dog’s mind, body and natural instincts. We tailor the challenges to their interests and abilities, creating opportunities for discovery, confidence and satisfaction. For our guests and their families, it’s a distinctive experience: meaningful enrichment for your dog and a delightful story you can follow together.
Will my dog have time to rest?
Yes. Rest is an important part of the daycare experience. We balance individual activities with opportunities to settle and relax, paying attention to your dog’s energy and comfort throughout their visit. A fulfilling day leaves room for both discovery and downtime. Quiet breaks allow your dog to recharge between experiences, with our caregivers adjusting the pace when they need a gentler day.
How do I get started and arrange regular visits?
Every prospective daycare guest begins with a Pawdit. This personalized assessment helps us determine whether your dog is suited to Fairview Boarding’s environment and approach, while introducing us to their personality and preferences. Once your dog graduates, our Client Experience team can help you arrange visits and discuss availability for a regular schedule. Consistent attendance gives your dog opportunities to build familiar relationships with our caregivers and enjoy the changing activities within our enrichment program.
Groom Salon
What makes grooming at Fairview Boarding different?
Our salon combines professional grooming with thoughtful attention to your dog’s comfort. We take time to understand their coat, your styling preferences and how they respond to the grooming process, using patient handling and positive reinforcement to encourage cooperation. Led by Tony, our Groom Operations Lead, the salon brings decades of grooming and award-winning handling experience to your dog’s appointment. Our goal is a beautifully finished groom and an experience that supports a trusting relationship with your dog over time.
Can I book grooming without lodging or daycare?
Yes. Grooming can be booked as a standalone appointment, so your dog can enjoy our salon without attending lodging or enrichment daycare. You can also ask about arranging grooming during a lodging or daycare visit for the convenience of bringing home a freshly groomed dog. Contact our Client Experience team to discuss the service you would like and appointment availability.
What does a grooming appointment include?
The services your dog needs depend on their coat, condition and the appointment you select. Our salon offers baths and full grooming services, with coat preparation and finishing tailored to the individual dog. Before the appointment, share your preferred style, maintenance routine and any concerns. We’ll discuss what is appropriate for your dog’s coat and comfort, including how to balance the look you love with upkeep at home.
How is grooming pricing determined?
Pricing reflects your dog’s size, coat type and condition, the style requested and the time and skill required to complete the service. Dogs of a similar weight may have very different grooming needs, particularly when working with dense, curly or longer coats. Our team can provide a starting estimate when you book. The groomer will assess your dog’s coat and discuss any adjustments or additional services needed. Regular appointments and consistent brushing at home help maintain the coat and make future grooming more comfortable.
Can you help a dog who is nervous about grooming?
Please tell us about your dog’s previous grooming experiences, sensitivities and any handling concerns when you book. These details help our team prepare and assess whether our salon is suited to their needs. We use patient handling, positive reinforcement and a pace that respects your dog’s comfort. For some dogs, building confidence may mean adjusting the appointment’s goals or working gradually across several visits. We’ll discuss what can be achieved safely and comfortably while helping your dog develop greater trust in the grooming process.
Dog Training School
What training programs do you offer?
We offer Day School, Boarding School and Private Lessons, giving families several ways to incorporate professional training into their dog’s life. Our programs can support skills ranging from puppy basics and everyday manners to more advanced learning and adventure readiness. We’ll discuss your goals, your dog’s current abilities and your routine to help identify an appropriate starting point.
What training methods do you use?
We use positive reinforcement to teach skills, encourage cooperation and build confidence. Training breaks learning into manageable steps and rewards your dog’s progress, helping them understand what is being asked. Our approach emphasizes a trusting relationship between dog and handler. We want your dog to participate willingly and develop practical skills you can use together in everyday life.
What is the difference between Day School and Boarding School?
Day School combines training with enrichment daycare. Dogs attend two or three days per week for six weeks, enjoying structured learning alongside enrichment and returning home to their families each day. Boarding School incorporates training into a two- to three-week lodging stay. This gives your dog opportunities to practice skills during their time with us while receiving overnight care. Both options provide professional guidance. The best choice depends on your goals, your schedule and whether you prefer daytime attendance or training during an overnight stay.
Can training be added to my dog’s lodging reservation?
Yes. We offer training add-ons that can bring purposeful learning to your dog’s stay, including Training Tune-Up, Confidence Builder and Adventure Skills. These options offer opportunities to reinforce familiar skills, support confidence or practice skills for outings together. Availability and minimum-stay requirements vary by service. Our team can explain the options and help you select an appropriate addition to your reservation.
How will I continue my dog’s training at home?
Your involvement helps your dog carry their learning into everyday life. We’ll guide you on the cues, techniques and practice needed to support the skills they have been working on. Short, consistent practice sessions and clear expectations help build lasting habits. Private Lessons also offer an opportunity to work directly with a trainer, refine your handling and address questions as you and your dog progress together.
Reservations & Preparing for a Visit
How do I make a reservation?
Contact our Client Experience team or use the booking link on our website to request your preferred service and dates. For lodging, let us know which experience you would like and any enrichment or training services you wish to add. New lodging and daycare guests must complete and graduate their Pawdit before their first visit. Our team will guide you through the steps and confirm availability, required records and reservation details so you know what to expect.
What health records are required before my dog visits?
All dogs must be current on rabies, Bordetella and distemper combination vaccinations, and must be on flea and tick prevention and heartworm prevention. Please provide current vaccination records and complete the requested health information before your dog’s visit. Let us know about any recent illness, changes in health or exposure to a sick dog before arrival. If your dog is showing signs of illness, contact our team before bringing them in so we can discuss their reservation. These requirements help us maintain a healthy environment and uphold our standards of care for every guest.
What are your arrival and departure hours?
Lodging & Daycare - Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–noon and 4–6 p.m. - Saturday: 8 a.m.–noon - Sunday: 4–6 p.m. Groom Salon - Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m., with arrivals and pickups coordinated around your grooming appointment. Please plan lodging and daycare arrivals and departures within the designated windows. The midday break allows our team to focus on our guests’ care, activities and rest. If your plans change, contact our Client Experience team promptly.
How far in advance should I book, especially for holidays?
We recommend requesting your reservation as soon as your travel plans are established, particularly for holidays and other popular travel periods. Early planning gives you the best opportunity to secure your preferred dates and lodging experience. If your dog is new to Fairview Boarding, allow time to schedule and graduate their Pawdit before their stay. Our team can explain any holiday booking requirements, deposits or seasonal pricing when you inquire.
What should I know about cancellations and last-minute changes?
Please review the cancellation, deposit and reservation-change terms provided when you book. Requirements may vary by service or reservation dates, particularly during holiday periods. If you need to adjust your plans, contact our Client Experience team as early as possible. We’ll explain how the applicable policy affects your reservation and help you explore available alternatives. Extensions and additional services are subject to availability, so please request them promptly.