ZDC FAQ’s



How do I get my dog started with Zen Dogs? 

Create your owner & pet portal from the main page of our website: Enrollment > Enroll/Log In w/ Pet Exec. Once you have created your account, you can either upload your dog’s vaccinations to your portal, or you can email them to us. At this time, we are booking in advance for new dog evaluations. Please contact us once you have your account set up with us, and we will go over our availability and help you schedule your dog’s first day with us! You will receive a “Welcome/What To Expect” email the day before your dog’s first day. If you have any questions in the meantime, don’t hesitate to call us (608) 850-3647. 


How old does my puppy have to be in order to come? 

Puppies can start coming to Zen Dogs as early as 14 weeks old. (See vaccination requirements below).

Do you separate big dogs and little dogs?                                              Yes! We separate play groups by size and play style. 

What are your drop off and pick up times? 

Monday - Friday

Drop Off: 7 - 9 am

Pick Up: 3:30 - 6 pm

What are your vaccination requirements? 

All dogs must be current on the following vaccinations: Rabies, Distemper (DHPP, DA2PP, DHPPV or DA2PPv), Bordetella, and Clear Fecal (every 6 months). **Leptospirosis and Canine Flu (H3N2 & H3N8) are not required, but recommended if your dog is at risk (ask your veterinarian).  

Vaccination Requirements for Puppies (who start at 14-16 weeks): Two series of Distemper, Bordetella, Clear Fecal, and all other age-appropriate boosters. Rabies is required by 5 months old (WI State Law).

Can we take a tour? 

Yes, we would love to take you on a tour and answer all of your questions! Your dog is welcome to join you, if you wish.  These tours are by appointment only, so please contact us to set up a time by calling 608-850-DOGS, or emailing us at: info@zendogscenter.com.

What do the dogs do during the day? 

Here is a general outline of a Zen Dog’s day: 

  • Drop off, out to potty.

  • On to play with their groups outside and inside! *These are monitored by Rufferees - safe play only!

  • Varied gate and door manners training periodically throughout the day (Rufferees focus on this each time the dogs go in or out). Dogs have to wait and be called through the doors and gates by their name (they love this "game!").

  • Varied basic obedience throughout the day (SIT, WAIT, OFF. LEAVE IT, COME, etc.) - in groups and individually.

  • If the group is calm and in a relaxed mindset, the Rufferees will work with individual dogs on HEEL (loose leash work).

  • Naptime/lunch/snacktime for all ~11AM - 1PM.

  • *If there are very young pups present, they will receive two extra rest periods each day (in addition to nap times); these are generally 20 to 30 minute breaks with a small snack (as directed by parents).

  • The Rufferees periodically do exposure training with the dogs present (broom sweeping, vacuuming, wheel chairs, walker, wooden ladders, hula hoops, etc.). They use "distance, duration, and distraction" method for this training*. *Keep distance when the dogs are uncomfortable, keep exposure short if the dogs express discomfort, increase exposure time as the dogs show increased comfortability, and use distractions when necessary to lighten the mood.

  • Lynn, Kori, Heather, Krista (owners and managers on duty) each spend time within the groups every day to have continued knowledge of how each dog is doing.

  • Play & Trains with Lynn are 30 minutes of concentrated 1:1 work with a pup or dog as designated by the parent(s). This session is for working on/training 2 to 3 items the parents request. This session culminates with a written/emailed report card and instructional videos.

  • Of course, the Rufferees spend time snuggling, massaging, and interacting with every pup and dog!

Can I bring food for my dog? 

Yes, we encourage you to send food along for your dog. We do not feed “lunch”, but rather a mid-day “snack” (unless you have a puppy that is still eating 3 meals/day). If you'd like to send along a snack for your dog, please send it in a name-labeled zip lock baggie.  For those of you who don’t bring snacks for your dog—don’t worry!  We have snacks here that are offered during rest time. 

Will my dog get a nap? 

Yes, all dogs have rest time in our climate controlled nap rooms in their own private kennels. We prepare for naptime by spritzing the room with organic calming spray, turning on our white noise sound machines, and turning down the lights to create a “zen” ambiance. 

Does my dog always have access to water? 

Yes, fresh water is always available for our daycare dogs (except during nap time).  Our water containers are refereshed many times during play periods.

Is someone always supervising the playgroups? 

Yes! The safety of our playgroups depends on it, and there will ALWAYS be a “Rufferee” present in all playgroups. 

How can I cancel my reservation(s) in Pet Exec? 

Follow these steps: 

Main Dashboard > Services > My Calendar > click on the day you want to modify > Maintain Daycare > Delete the day you want. 

What is your cancellation policy? 

We ask that you please cancel a reservation by 9 am the day before, in order to not be charged. If a pup “no shows” to a scheduled reservation, owners are charged for the day (either via credit card on file, or a punch from your daycare package).

What is your “late pick up” policy?

Everyone is antsy to get home to their families (including the dogs!) and have a nice dinner after a day of work and play!   Our late pick-up fee:  $1/per minute past the time of “closing”.  

What if I try to schedule my dog for a day of daycare, and it says you’re full? 

If you would like to be added to a waitlist for that day, please call/email us! We will then let you know if there is an opening, and offer you a spot at that time. 

How can I add on a bath or nail trim for my dog? 

You can add a bath or nail trim any day your dog is at daycare with us! You’re welcome to let us know in advance (phone/email/in person), or just let us know on the day you drop off—we will add it then! 

What is your Winter Weather Protocol?

The most important thing to know, is that Zen Dogs will close if the Waunakee School District closes because of snow & ice*. However, we will NOT CLOSE if the Waunakee School District closes only due to cold weather. We have beautiful, indoor heated play gyms for the pups to come and play in, so since they wouldn't be able to go for walks or play at parks otherwise--they can come and play here with us! 

How do I get my dog enrolled in a training class?

There is usually some tail-waggin’ class or unique workshop going on at ZDC! To view the latest, go to the “Training” tab on our website and then choose “Upcoming Training Classes”.  You will be automatically linked to Wunderdog.com to view and choose the classes currently being offered!

When can I purchase discounted-rate packages?

Every dog is different with their assimilation in an environment such as Zen Dogs Center! Some dogs acclimate like they have always been with us, other dogs need more time for us to know whether we are a good fit for them. All new dogs have an evaluation process. The first day is a “trial day” where the dog will be evaluated. On your third evaluation day, our staff should be able to give you an update on your dog’s future with us!

If your dog gets the “Green Means Go!”, you will be able to purchase a package if you like. The decision to purchase a package is at the Owner’s discretion, but we always recommend starting with a 5-Day. These packages are nonrefundable.